Devon Geary is a recent graduate of the Bachelor of Business in Retail Management programme at DBS. The 2 year full-time programme incorporates a work placement in Lidl.
What did you feel was the best thing about studying in DBS?
The best thing I felt about studying in DBS was the support system that was in place for students. I always felt at ease when I was concerned about any aspect of my course, as it was always very easy to find help from Student Services, Library Staff or at the information desks that were available. Also I found the lecturers to be very personable and approachable, all the lecturers I had over the time of my course always made themselves available for queries either during or after a lecture or through email.
How did you enjoy the course?
I enjoyed my course immensely as not only did I gain vital skills for the working environment but I also made so many new friends that I will stay in contact with for life. Before college began I was apprehensive about how it would be as I had never been in college previously but looking back on it, it was the best decision I have ever made.
What did you think of college life in DBS?
It was such an easy adjustment to college life in DBS, from the welcoming atmosphere within the classroom to the relaxing setting of the fourth floor in Castle House. There is a multi-cultural feel to the college as a whole and meeting people from different backgrounds was really interesting. There were events organised frequently by different societies, and these included career fairs, movie clubs, bake sales for charity and cultural appreciation events. My own class organised three different charity events during my time in DBS, we had a Christmas Market and two bake sales, to which all raised a considerable amount of money for charities, this was due to the friendly and generous people that are in DBS.
What you have done since/ what do you hope to do career-wise and how do you think your degree will benefit you?
I completed a Degree in Retail Management as part of the Lidl Programme. The soft skills I learned within DBS have in no doubt helped me excel within my job. We covered such areas as accounting, excel, leadership, consumer behaviour, marketing and HR. These topics are all vitally important within my role as a Deputy Store Manager within Lidl. I'm currently working in my local store and am hoping to use my knowledge to become a Store Manager in the near future.