Harry Bhagania had a Career Ready mentor and paid internship with SEGRO in 2023. Recently, he took part in the Financial Times News School. This is his story.
Harry was studying at Ashby School in the East Midlands when his teacher first approached him about Career Ready.
“At the time I was kind of unsure of where to go in my career,” he says. “Career Ready seemed like a great opportunity to learn, get experience in different kinds of things.
“For me, the most interesting part was being mentored by a professional. So I applied – and I’m really glad I did.”
Building a network
Harry’s internship was with our partners, SEGRO.
“I had to deliver a logistics projects presentation, developing an engagement strategy for East Midlands Gateway phase two. It was really interesting to work on.
“We also had a trip to London, which was exciting – we were shown around the SEGRO office and got to hear the CEO speak.
“The network you gain through Career Ready is super impactful. At the start of the programme, I didn’t realise that, but once you get a little bit older you understand how important it is.
“The programme allows you not only the literal network, but also the tools to best utilise it – whether that’s understanding how to behave in a professional setting, or making sure your CV is on the right level.”
Attending the News School
Now, Harry’s studying Economics at the University of York. Recently, he took part in the Financial Times News School: a virtual, two-week night school, with interactive workshops.
“It was genuinely awesome,” Harry says. “We heard from people from all different sides within the Financial Times. There were also people from Google, Netflix – and we got to hear from the CEO of the Financial Times and the CEO of ITN.
“I went into it thinking it’s going to be all about journalism. I had no idea about the depth of the business. That was one of the biggest insights for me.
“I loved looking at data and learning about the research they do as a leader in data journalism. We also learned about subscription-based services and things like digital advertising.
“I found all of that super interesting and it’s the kind of area, looking forward, I’d want to work towards.”
Harry now has a mentor from the FT and will have the opportunity to complete a week’s work experience – as well as apply for a summer internship only open to News School candidates.
“Just like with my Career Ready internship, everyone is so willing to give their time,” he adds. “It’s up to you as the student to make the effort – if you ask a question, or for help, they’re happy to support you.”
Just say yes
For other young people, Harry had this advice: “I’d say the biggest thing is to say yes to as much as possible. You’re going to get out whatever you put in. So try to break out of your shell and make yourself as uncomfortable as possible.
“Career Ready allowed me to do that because it gives you the skills, but and also the setting where it’s OK to feel uncomfortable and develop as a young person going into your career.”
