Megan Day
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background
I am from just outside Oban on the West Coast of Scotland, and I attended Oban High School from 2017-2023. I’m currently about to go into my third year at the University of Strathclyde studying a BA Journalism, Media and Communication & Politics and International Relations degree, which I am enjoying immensely!Â
What was your experience like with Future Asset?
I got involved with a group of my friends in 2022 when I was in my last year of high school. We were all a bit hesitant because it was the first time our school had joined the competition and we hadn’t heard much about it at the time. However we were encouraged by our teachers that were coordinating it for our school to give it a go! We were lucky enough to win the award for the Best Elevator Pitch award for the senior group, which was so exciting as we had a blast filming it and it was my first time using editing software to edit all the clips together. I absolutely loved my time doing the Future Asset competition. It made me think more about the way that companies work, and how you can analyse companies and see how successful they are, or how they affect the environment.Â
What are your current career goals or aspirations?
After I finish university, I would like to go into journalism, in particular political journalism. The Future Asset competition really helped solidify this for me, as by looking at finance and careers in finance, it showed me how intertwined the political and financial worlds are linked and the impact they have on each other. I am passionate about ensuring that people have a voice and that people, especially politicians, are held to account and questioned during their political careers.
What advice would you give to students thinking about considering a career in finance?
There is nothing I can recommend more than doing the Future Asset Competition! It really helped to boost my confidence and even after 2 years since we were in the competition, there are still regular events that we are invited to by the amazing organisers, and information that is sent out to us. If you are worried about your time management and taking extra things on during school and around exams, I promise I was the same and I was able to balance completing our project for Future Asset whilst still doing all of my school work and revision. You also have the ability to meet other students and businesses throughout your time in the competition so it is a great chance to network and meet new people. In general I would say if you have the opportunity to do something, even if you are scared, grab it with both hands! Don’t be afraid to talk to people and ask for opportunities and advice, because especially in Future Asset, everyone is so helpful and genuinely wants the best for you and to be able to help you!
What advice would you give to firms and employers?Â
I would say take on and give as much advice and support to as many young people as you can! We all need to start somewhere, and young people are not to be underestimated. Young people offer a fresh outlook, which is always really important to consider. Especially for something like social media, which most young people use frequently, we understand what we like to look at on these apps. This can be helpful when trying to advertise or educate young people about your business. Run competitions, organise work experience and get young people engaging with your business! They are the future and it is important to prepare them for a workplace similar to yours.
Would you like to share your story? Contact jemma@futureasset.org.uk
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