Second blog post – Initiating projects to grow professionally and personally by

In my first blog post, I wrote about the different projects I was going to undertake following my first meeting with Calum. These were networking, creating workshops for STEM Ambassadors and vlogging. Thanks to Calum’s help, I have managed to make significant progress, and our teamwork is allowing us to define practical ideas we will soon be putting into action.

Feeling more confident while networking
Networking was one of the first reasons why I joined the mentor scheme. Not feeling particularly comfortable with this practice, I knew I needed to improve this skill as soon as possible.
As Calum suggested the first time we met, I went to different networking events to enhance this ability. Going to events organised by Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce (Business Breakfast, Speed Networking) and other organisations (Junior Chamber International (JCI) Aberdeen), I am glad today to feel more confident. I even find myself looking for additional opportunities to expand my network and learn more about marketing/communications as well as the local economy. Offering good learning opportunities, I intend to attend marketing-specific events such as the ones organised by Gravity Digital Marketing and Modern Marketing.

Planning a STEM Club
Calum and I have likewise been in the process of defining workshops focusing on digital marketing for STEM Ambassadors, to improve my presentation skills, communications/marketing expertise and explore my interest in teaching.
After participating in an online course and two evening training classes arranged by Aberdeen Science Centre, we have started to define and plan a STEM Club demonstrating the benefits of social media and other digital tools in engaging individuals and communities with technology and/or scientific projects. Linked to the “Curriculum for excellence”, these series of 5 – 6 workshops will be tailored to students’ and teachers’ needs and interests. To make this happen, we are currently in discussion with different organisations (notably Robert Gordon University), to ensure quality and valuable content will be delivered.
Calum’s network and knowledge of the educational system have been particularly helpful to define pertinent ideas further. Besides, I believe my upcoming meetings with experienced individuals will add extra confidence and tangibility.

Vlogging – on a mission to kickstart a YouTube channel
My mentor and I have also achieved to determine a vlog concept to develop project management and branding abilities. As an exciting, but also time-consuming and challenging project, we are now focusing most of our interest on it for the following weeks.
After watching videos recommended by Calum and undertaking comprehensive research on Google Trends, VisitAberdeenshire, VisitScotland and YouTube itself to create content according to users’ interest and intent, we have defined a more specific type of channel, a mission and a list of potential subjects. 
We aim at producing a vlog on adventures in Aberdeenshire to inspire both locals and visitors to take the road, discover, re-discover the region and live their own adventures. By filming a variety of indoors and outdoors activities, we will be showing Aberdeenshire is a great place for discoveries. Again, to make sure we are generating the right content, Calum has kindly given his valuable advice, points of view and started conversations with local organisations. Considering the effort and time that need to be invested, we aim at publishing the first video in June – July. 
I am very grateful for Calum’s help as it has been giving me a clear focus and the opportunity to challenge myself. From networking and volunteering for STEM Ambassadors to vlogging, I have been participating in engaging activities that have allowed me to grow as a professional, but also as a person. I have recently been offered new responsibilities in business development, and I believe my work with Calum is allowing me to enhance a variety of skills and advance in my chosen career paths. Many thanks to Calum and AYP for their continuous support.
​

---