Martin Dean
Why did you volunteer for the RISE project?
Coming from a working-class background I wanted to share my story and progression with students from a similar background.
What did you have to do?
Introduce myself, explain what I do, and what helped me get to where I am now. The students were set challenges and tasks and I was there mainly to help/guide them to complete the challenges
Where did this take place?
Doncaster, Serlby Park Academy in November 2022
What was the reaction from those you were speaking/presenting to?
The students were interested in my career path (given I didn’t go to university). They were also interested in my time spent travelling and what I learnt during that time.
What Qs were you asked?
‘How much money do you earn?’ ‘Did you always want to be an accountant?’ To be honest, I was more interested in hearing what they wanted to do and offered advice on how to potentially get there
Did you feel it had been a worthwhile experience?
Absolutely. I remember not having a clue what I wanted to do or be at a young age (other than be a footballer). It was great to see lots of young adults knowing exactly what they want to be and how they were going to get there. I was there to reassure those who weren’t so sure what they wanted to be (based on my own career journey)
Did you enjoy it?
Yes, I would recommend it to others and also do it again
Did your experience meet your prior expectations?
Yes and more. I wanted to help in any way I could, and I left with the feeling that a lot of the advice I gave the students (even if it was just reassurance) was appreciated. The only thing I didn’t like was being called ‘sir’….made me feel very old!
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