April 2013′s Graduate Profile of the Month is Justin Beresford
Justin graduated, in 2012, with a BSc Economics. He is now an Assistant Economist with the Government Economic Service at the Ministry of Justice.
Where are you now?
I am currently employed as an Assistant Economist through the Government Economic Service at the Ministry of Justice. As an analyst, I specialise in analysis of the government’s ‘payment by results’ initiative to reduce re-offending. I work with many young, intelligent and like-minded graduates and have really enjoyed seeing how the fundamental economic principles which I developed at Loughborough are directly applied in a real world, high impact, policy setting environment.
How did you get there?
After graduating with a first class degree from such a reputable University as Loughborough, I was in a strong position. I received MSc Economics offers from SOAS and Nottingham – with a scholarship from the latter – as well as two job offers: Compliance Officer at HMRC and my current position at the Ministry of Justice. Even after graduation, my tutor was very helpful, keeping in touch throughout the application process and offering his thoughts and advice on my different options as I made my difficult choices.
Where are you going?
These plans are still work in progress! My studies created a desire for further academic development and there is potential for government sponsorship given my current role. At work, I hope to progress to Economic Advisor within three years at which point, I will be able to consider promotion not only within UK government departments but also abroad. In the more distant future I see myself moving into economic consultancy.
What advice would you give to a student studying your subject at university now?
My advice to current students would be to work hard but also to take full advantage of the wider opportunities available at Loughborough. Things like the ‘Insight into Management’ course and leadership positions in clubs and societies will provide you with invaluable competency examples for applications and interviews, which you could never regret having. Lastly, give yourself a head start with summer internships if possible and get your applications in early (and before you start stressing about January exams!)
