Elliot Spring studied his BA (Hons) Business Studies with Finance degree at Bournemouth University. He is currently on the second of a three year ‘Leaders for Business’ graduate scheme at British Airways (BA).

Elliot says “[The graduate scheme] is a rotational scheme consisting of both customer facing and office based positions. Placements range from HR, Customer experience and Strategy to name a few."

“As soon as you join the company you are trained to be cabin crew and fly for 2 months giving you great exposure to customers and front-line colleagues."

Elliot Spring

When asked how your placement helped focus your future plans, Elliot replied, “Undertaking a placement year really confirmed my desire to pursue a career in a major blue chip company due to the developmental opportunities available and ability to really understand how all business functions come together to work towards achieving a shared goal.”

Elliot credits his sandwich course with helping him get his job at BA, saying “Having a placement year gave me a feel of what it is like to work in a major company and also the assessment processes needed to pass in order to be a successful candidate. Having this experience is so valuable when applying to graduate roles and so well received by employers.”

Speaking about his course Elliot said, “the best thing about the course was the broad spectrum of modules covered over the three years giving you a wide array of knowledge and an extensive skill-set which left me in good stead to excel in what is an increasingly competitive working environment.”

Elliot added that his own personal experiences and seeing the university grow and develop make him proud to be a BU student. “Being one of nearing 18,000 students at the University, you are never shy of things to do, whether it’s sports activities, socials or the inevitable late night library stints.”

“All while building friendships that last a lifetime. Bournemouth is a beautiful town to live in, with its iconic coastline, buzzing nightlife and friendly feel.”

Finally Elliot’s advice for other potential students, “Take every opportunity that comes your way, even if it’s something out of your comfort zone."

“Never under estimate the power of networking, start building this network early as you never know how it will help you as your career progresses.”