A new careers fair, being launched at Loughborough University,
is set to give students an invaluable insight into working in the
sports industry.
Talk Sport 2012, which will be held on 16 February, will feature
around 30 sport-specialist companies, providing Loughborough's
students with the chance to find out about the range of careers in
sport, as well as the opportunities for work placements.
Gill Clarke, from the University's Careers and Employability
Centre, says that 2012 is the perfect time to launch the new
fair.
"Interest in working in sport has never been higher, because of
the Olympics. Gaining a foothold in the industry can be tough
though, and particularly so in the current economic climate. This
careers fair will allow our students to learn more about the range
of jobs available in sport and, perhaps more importantly, what they
need to do in order to maximise their chances of succeeding in
their chosen career path," Gill comments.
One of the attending companies, Leicester Tigers, already has
well-established links with the University.
Scott Clarke, the Tigers' Community Manager, says: "Over the
years we've employed several Loughborough graduates, as well as
current students, to help us deliver the Tigers' Community Team
programmes. Without exception, every student we've recruited has
been really professional and has also had a genuine enthusiasm for
and understanding of sport, all of which are central to the Tigers'
ethos.
"Talk Sport 2012 will give us an opportunity to meet the present
crop of Loughborough students and share our experiences with them
about the world of professional sport. Who knows - we may even find
the next new recruit to the Tigers team."
Sports clothing design company Kukri Sports Ltd will also be
exhibiting at the event. Their director, Laura Thomas, graduated
from Loughborough University in 1995.
"Not so very long ago, I was in these students' shoes and I know
how daunting it can be," says Laura. "Talk Sport 2012 will be a
great opportunity for me to pass on some of the knowledge I've
gained from working in the sports industry and, hopefully, to
inspire others on their career path."