At a ceremony at Parkanaur Manor House, near Dungannon the FSB and the Association of Northern Ireland Colleges (ANIC) awarded the top business students of the local 16 Further Education colleges with a bursary.

The scheme called FSB –Future Students of Business, which is now in its second year, recognises the best student from each of the 16 FE Colleges throughout Northern Ireland undertaking a business related course at level 3 (equivalent to A level) or above   The scheme was open to both full time and part time students and the winner from each college was presented with a certificate and a bursary.  Ashley Young received the award for The South Eastern Regional College in Bangor campus in 2006.

As part of winning this award she had to submit the following information:

Why did you decide to undertake this business related course?

From a young age I have shown a keen interest in business. My knowledge and experience was then developed at GCSE level though Business Studies – which encouraged my interest even further.  I then chose to study Economics at A Level - which I found particularly interesting as it developed the theory behind business. I was very pleased to achieve a grade A  in A Level Economics in the summer of 2005. So when the choice came for Further Education, I had my eye on the BA Hons Business Management Degree in SERC for a long time so it wasn’t hard to make the decision! I was attracted by the course modules and thought it was a great idea to be able to choose which modules to specialise in come the second and third year. I had also heard great reports both about the actual course and the college itself so I didn’t hesitate to apply for the course!

II         What have you gained from your learning experience?

Even after the first year, my experiences within the course have been amazing! I have found each and every module to be of benefit and have enjoyed the variety of work. My knowledge in each of the areas I have studied has developed greatly, including in some areas which I hadn’t experienced in depth – such as Law and Finance. The mixture of coursework and exams has been useful to further develop my learning techniques. I am really looking forward to what next year will bring! 

III        Do you envisage working in a business environment in the private sector?

The great thing about this course is that it prepares us for a broad spectrum for employment, including the public and private sectors. Although it is early days, I could certainly see myself working in the private sector. I’m sure as my knowledge and experiences develop throughout my time in the college, I will be narrowing down the potential areas of work – but right now, I’m keeping an open mind!

IV        What are your future plans?

Upon completion of the Business Management Degree, I have certainly given thought to further study at a Masters Level. Failing that, I feel I would be ready to start on the career ladder or indeed create my own by opening a business myself. It all depends on what opportunities lie ahead - but whatever path I take, I know I will be flourishing in the world of business!