Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Sports Events Management graduate works on the Women's Euro 2022 Opening Ceremony
We caught up with recent MSc Sports Events Management graduate, Ross Thorburn to find out how Leeds Beckett empowered him to pursue his dream career.
Why did you choose to study at LBU?
Leeds Beckett was the right place for me to develop my understanding and knowledge of the sports events industry. Being surrounded by the best lecturers, who have first-hand industry experience, was essential for me to learn and mature into the postgraduate alumni I am today. Before I came to Leeds Beckett I had heard raving reports about the course and the university’s sporting offer, and it didn’t disappoint!
What have you been up to since finishing your course?
I graduated from my BSc Sports Events Management at Leeds Beckett in 2020 before completing my MSc Sports Events degree in 2022. When I finished my masters I left my job in recruitment and joined EVENT360 in North London. It is an award-winning specialist sports presentation company who have got clients across all sports, such as the Rugby Football Union, The FA, NFL, Premiership Rugby, Super League and Arsenal FC.
Since working here I have been involved in the Women's EUROs Opening Ceremony at Old Trafford, HSBC London 7s, and the Magic Weekend at St James Park for Super League. I have also been working on our preparation stage for the Rugby League World Cup 2021, the Super League Grand Final and preparing applications for other event proposals.
How did your course help you to succeed in your chosen career?
My course provided the clarification that I wanted to pursue a career in sports events management. During my time at Leeds Beckett, I was the team leader for the 2019 Beckett Colour Run which raised money for the International Volunteers in Asia.
What is your most memorable achievement to date?
I came out of school with poor GCSE results and wasn't allowed to study the A-Levels I had originally applied to do. Achieving a Merit in my MSc was such a huge achievement and looking back on what I have done to date and seeing how far I have come is the best feeling ever.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of studying Sports Events Management?
Take every opportunity to gain practical, hands-on work experience. The events industry is very different to any other working industry. The opportunity to get involved in event preparations will help you stand out to future employers. Not only will you have the theory and knowledge from your degree, but you will also have experience of putting this knowledge into practice. The sports events industry is difficult to get into so make sure you take every opportunity available to you and network, this will help you get your foot in the door.
Visit our website to find out more about studying Sports Events Management at Leeds Beckett University.
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