Kirsten Thorpe
Alumni
Please tell us about your current role and employer
As a golf operations assistant I help in the day-to-day operations, ensuring visitors and members feel welcomed, valued and overall making sure their experience is unforgettable. My main daily tasks include checking golfers in, answering guests enquiries via email or phone and getting all rental equipment ready for the golfers to use.
Fairmont St Andrews is set just outside the town of St Andrews in Scotland. It boasts two 18-hole Championship Golf Courses as well as a 5 star, 212-bedroom hotel, all set on 520 acres of land overlooking St Andrews Bay cliffs.
What does a typical day in your current role look like?
From open to close I maintain a professional manner towards guests. My morning duties include getting all the rental equipment that is booked (for example, electric trolleys and buggies) up and ready for the golfers. Throughout the day I check golfers in and make sure they have everything they need to play their round of golf. I answer phone calls and emails regarding golf bookings. As the day comes to an end, I ensure all the rental equipment to cleaned and back in storage ready for the next day.
What was your journey to getting a job after graduating from Birmingham? (e.g. application process, visa considerations)
I started working at Fairmont St Andrews though a connection I made at the University of Birmingham. They at the time were working in St Andrews and knew of a job opening and put me forward to my manager, after several zoom calls my manager offer me the job.
How do you feel the learning experience on your course helped to prepare you for your career?
Studying Applied Golf Management helped significantly, I was able to apply what I had learnt into my career smoothly and effectively.
How did the University's support services (e.g. Careers Network) help to prepare you for your career?
The University's support was very impactful, from sending out advice on how to create a well structure CV to interview preparation support, it helped me secure a job in a field I am passionate about.
What are your top tips for students graduating today?
Put yourself out there and get connecting with likeminded people in your field/career.
What were the best things about your course?
Getting hands on experience though our summer internships and having industry professionals speak to us about different careers within golf.
What was your biggest achievement during your course? (personal, professional or academic)
Personally, studying Applied Golf Management helped me build my confidence and it helped me understand what career path I wanted to venture down.