I Got Hired: Jacob

Posted on: 21 October 2024 by Ruby O'Sullivan in Class of 2023

Jacob Patterson is a Class of 2023 BSc Computer Science graduate who is now working as a Data Analyst at Anytime Fitness.

How did you hear about your role and decide to apply for it?

I was contacted through LinkedIn by a recruitment company about a data analyst position for an international health and fitness operator. Intrigued by the opportunity, I scheduled a call with the recruiter to discuss the role in detail and ensure that my qualifications met the necessary criteria. During this call, I was excited to learn that the position was with Anytime Fitness, a globally recognised brand in the fitness industry.

How did you get to where you are now?

My journey to where I am now has been shaped by a blend of early work experience, academic studies, and supportive individuals. Since the age of 16, I worked as a lifeguard, receptionist, and duty manager at my local outdoor swimming pool. These roles were crucial in helping me develop valuable workplace skills such as leadership, communication, and time management.

Your favourite experience as part of your role?

One of my favourite experiences so far in my role has been attending my first Anytime Fitness conference at St George’s Park. The event was incredibly insightful, featuring excellent speakers, engaging presentations, and an awards dinner that celebrated some truly remarkable achievements within the company. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with franchisees, club staff, and suppliers whom I don’t usually interact with directly. This experience really opened my eyes to the broad impact of our work and made me appreciate the collaborative spirit that drives our success even more. 

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

The most challenging part of my graduate journey was dealing with the job search process. I sent out countless applications, hoping to find a role that was a good fit for me, but I faced a lot of rejections, often without much feedback. It was tough and demotivating not knowing what I could improve on or where I was going wrong. The constant cycle of applying and getting rejected made me question my approach and my abilities. Despite how disheartening it was, it taught me a lot about resilience and the importance of not giving up, even when things felt discouraging.

Top 3 Tips for current students and graduates:

  1. Pursue what you enjoy: Find a role or company that aligns with your passions and interests. When you’re enthusiastic about what you’re doing, it not only makes the work more fulfilling but also helps you stay motivated and engaged in your career.
  2. Persevere through rejections: The job search process can be tough, and rejection is often part of the journey. Stay persistent and keep applying. Sometimes, the right opportunity comes along when you least expect it, and a bit of patience can lead to rewarding results.
  3. Build and leverage your network: Connect with mentors, peers, and professionals in your field. Networking can provide valuable insights, open doors to opportunities, and offer support as you navigate your career path.

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