At South Bank Colleges, we believe in equipping our students with the skills, experiences, and support necessary to thrive both academically and professionally. Hanna, a Business student, is a shining example of how dedication, proactive engagement, and tailored work placements can help shape a successful future. From balancing her studies with multiple industry placements to taking on leadership roles in and outside of college, Hanna’s story highlights the impact of a truly student-focused approach to education.
A Passion for Growth and Excellence
Hanna is an exceptionally driven Business student who constantly seeks new opportunities to expand her skills and contribute to the college community. Throughout her academic journey, Hanna has actively participated in numerous work experiences, demonstrating her commitment to personal and professional growth.
Her involvement extends beyond her studies — Hanna generously dedicates her time to volunteering, regularly engaging in college activities, and playing an integral role in supporting her peers. This drive to succeed and help others is a key part of her success story.
A Standout Experience: Work Placement at Pashon PR
One of Hanna’s most notable work experiences took place at Pashon PR, where she supported the prestigious Power of a Man Awards event. This high-profile event celebrates leadership and achievement across various industries, and Hanna’s performance was exceptional. Her dedication, proactive attitude, and confidence made her stand out, earning praise from her employer, Shonnet, who noted Hanna’s natural ability to take on additional tasks and responsibilities.
Due to her outstanding performance, Hanna was entrusted with the incredible honour of presenting awards to distinguished industry professionals at the event. Her hard work and dedication left such a lasting impression that she was invited back to assist with the next Power of a Man Awards in March — a testament to her commitment and the high level of competence South Bank Colleges instills in its students.
Student Feedback: The Support That Made the Difference
Hanna’s experience would not have been possible without the continuous support from the college’s work placement team. As Hanna herself explains:
“The work placement officers at college are very hands-on. They helped me every step of the way to provide me with the best work experience possible. Alicia has been communicating constantly with placements and making sure to give everyone equal opportunities to grow. All the work experience I have gained through the school has been specifically tailored to my course and it’s been extremely helpful.”
This personal and tailored approach to work placements ensures that students like Hanna are matched with opportunities that not only align with their academic studies but also help them grow professionally.
Beyond the Classroom: Volunteering and Peer Leadership
Hanna’s commitment to her personal growth doesn’t stop with her work placements. Outside of her studies, she dedicates her time to volunteering at Oxfam, working two days a week to support the charity’s operations. This hands-on experience allows her to develop transferable skills while giving back to her community.
In addition to her volunteering efforts, Hanna also plays a crucial role as a Career Champion at the college. In this role, she helps support the Careers and Work Experience Team with events, workshops, and encouraging fellow students to participate in work experience opportunities. Hanna’s commitment to engaging with and assisting her peers further highlights her leadership abilities.
This year, Hanna will also join the college’s overseas trip to Cyprus, showcasing her eagerness to explore new experiences and enhance her personal and professional development.
A Bright Future Ahead
Hanna’s journey is a testament to the value of a student-focused approach to education. Her academic achievements, combined with her extensive work experience, volunteering, and leadership roles, have not only contributed to her personal growth but also set her on the path to a successful career.
At South Bank Colleges, we are proud to support students like Hanna who strive for excellence and take full advantage of the opportunities available to them. Her story is just one example of how our commitment to providing high-quality work experience and industry connections is helping students succeed both in their studies and in their careers.
We look forward to seeing all the future accomplishments Hanna will achieve, and we are excited to continue supporting her as she takes the next steps in her professional journey.
At South Bank Colleges, we’re dedicated to offering more than just academic programmes — we’re committed to building pathways for our students to achieve their full potential. If you’d like to learn more about how our tailored work experience opportunities help students like Hanna thrive, please visit our Work Experience page to find out more about how we support students' career development.