Two students from the University of Aberdeen were among 14 finalists in the 2007 Shell Step Scotland and Northern Ireland Awards.
Brian Mugoto, who is studying Management Studies and Jeni MacDonald, who is studying English, both took part in an eight week summer placement under the Shell Step scheme, which matches some of the UK's brightest and most enterprising undergraduates with businesses who need help with specific issues or projects.
Brian was placed at Grampian Fasteners based in Aberdeen, distributors of industrial fasteners and engineering and construction supplies. He compiled at 12-month web marketing plan for their e-commerce website. The plan provided recommendations for marketing, search engine optimisation and relationship building strategies. Brian's suggestions will help build customer awareness and could stimulate £100,000 worth of online sales in 2007/08. Grampian Fasteners are also confident that Brian's work will help them achieve a £5,000,000 turnover within five years.
Jeni was placed at CALMAN Trust Ltd, based in Inverness, a voluntary organisation that provides support and training to young people. Jeni's project involved the development of the young people's website – www.leavinghomeinthehighlands.org. Jeni compiled up to date and accurate information on a wide range of subjects for the website. She also ensured that the information could be understood by young people various literacy skills. The new website can now be developed easily by CALMAN Trust Ltd.
Both students took part in the Shell Step Scotland and Northern Ireland final at The Hub, in Edinburgh. In advance, the duo had to submit a report and then on the day give a presentation to the panel of judges. They were then judged on both.
Neither was successful in reaching the UK finals, however, it was a fantastic achievement for both to reach the Scotland and Northern Ireland final.
Cathy Macaslan, Vice-Principal (Learning & Teaching), said: "It is fantastic to see our students take up these types of opportunities and by doing so, have enhanced not only their skills, knowledge and experience, but significantly increased their chances of being successful in getting a great job when they graduate."
Shell Step is a 21st Century placement scheme and was created by Shell UK in 1986 and continues to support the programme UK-wide. Students who take part in the programme are more attractive to future employers and the participating companies report a significant impact on the bottom line.
James Smith, Chairman, Shell UK said: "Shell Step is a leading creator of tailored work placements for students in small to medium-sized businesses. Shell Step's eight-week summer placements help students apply their knowledge and make them accountable for a project with a genuine impact on the host company's bottom line. Over the last 21 years, Shell Step has helped more than 22,000 students prepare for their first job."