Congratulations to Jack Mitchell (class of 2023) on receiving the ‘Own It’ award at the recent Muller Milk & Ingredients Commercial Conference, in recognition of his effort and contribution to the company during his placement year. 

Jack is studying Marketing & Management at the University of Durham and has just a few months left of his one year placement with Muller UK & Ireland, where he has been working as part of the Category Marketing team, before he returns to complete his degree: “This placement has given me the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on industry experience and develop professionally.  I was honoured to receive the Own It award, it was a proud moment to receive recognition of the support, learning, and hard work throughout my placement year.”

“I’m now looking forward to making the most of the final few months of my placement before returning to university with greater experience, confidence, and a clearer vision for my future career.”

I’ll return to university with greater confidence and a clearer vision for my future career.

Jack’s top advice for students preparing for their post-18 pathways is to stay open-minded: “Take opportunities as they arise, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone”.

He continued: “I still remember the nerves on my first day at university and during my placement, but it’s important to realise that you don’t need to have everything figured out straight away. Every experience helps shape your path and build your confidence, so be brave and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.”

Jack’s encouragement to stay open-minded and embrace uncertainty strongly echoes the recent reflections of Amalia Morris who visited Trent to talk to Year 13 about her experience beyond school. Together, their shared message reassures students that it’s perfectly normal not to have everything mapped out straight away, and that growth comes from taking opportunities, building confidence, and learning through each experience along the way.   These messages are echoed by many OTs who, before them, have also been so generous with their time and advice in sharing valuable insights with Trent students in their final year.  We continue to be grateful for the strong connections and valuable alumni support Trent College students receive. 

“It’s completely normal not to have everything mapped out. Growth comes from trying, learning, and staying open-minded.”