Alternative Paths

Esme had a long-standing desire to study Fashion Design. She wanted to complement this with the continued development of her flair for languages and was determined to study abroad. She didn’t want to allow ‘what my friends are doing’ distract her from her dream.

Parsons Paris, a branch of the famous Parsons School, New York, ranked number three in the world, offered that unique opportunity. Situated in Paris the course combines theory, cutting edge design methods, French tradition, studio projects and hands on experience and internships with local companies.

The application process required Esme to write two essays, one outlining her qualities as a candidate, and the other addressing a social justice issue of personal interest to her. In addition, she had to complete ‘The Parsons Challenge’, a piece inspired by her art work at school, which was complemented by an essay explaining her artistic process. Esme was given close support in the Art Department for this application, as well as guidance from the Careers Department.

Her application, and the work she produced in support of it was judged to be of an exceptional standard and she was awarded a Merit Scholarship.

A focused and ambitious young man, Joshua was never one to shy away from a challenge. The chance to combine a degree with real work in the city was an opportunity he was determined to pursue. Joshua began work as an investment banker straight out of school while working towards the completion of a degree at the same time.

To begin his career at J. P. Morgan will set Joshua up for the long term regardless of the direction his future takes him. As a consequence the application process was demanding. Following a paper application including a CV and covering letter, Joshua had a telephone interview and an assessment centre interview, involving collaboration tasks and individual interviews. He was then required to attend further interviews with a Managing Director and an Associate before a final online interview.

Joshua benefited from his broad and varied experiences at Rugby as well as support from the Economics department and Careers Department. Ultimately, however, the essential ingredient was his hard work and dedication to preparation.

Matthew decided that the traditional route to a degree was not for him. He wanted to combine education with employment and to gain a wider life experience from his higher education. Having heard about the opportunity during his Higher Education lessons at Rugby Matthew spent time with the careers department learning about degree apprenticeship opportunities and developing his application. The application process was ‘very full on’ and ‘time consuming’, especially because Matthew applied for several apprenticeship opportunities. In addition t the paper application, Matthew passed an aptitude test, a Job Simulation exercise and the final interview stage. Candidates were eliminated at every stage, and he was delighted to be offered a place. He is now embarking on his career.