It's hard to believe it was this time last year that I was awaiting a phone call to confirm whether or not I had gained a place on the Saltire Foundation programme.  That was definitely one of the most nerve wracking times of my life, and not daring to tempt fate at all I didn’t tell anyone I had applied – needless to say it was a bit of a delightful shock when I told my friends and family that not only had I gained a fantastic internship opportunity but that the opportunity was in Australia.

Before completing my Saltire experience I was largely unsure exactly what my career aspirations were. Saltire gave me the opportunity to complete a rotational placement thus gave me exposure to many different areas of an international company. I feel this has benefitted me enormously and while I have not yet secured a graduate position I now know the areas I’m passionate about thus aspire to work in. I have been successful in getting to the final stage of several recruitment processes – which I believe is due in no small part to my Saltire experience. Indeed my Cost Reduction Project which saved Telstra US$700,000 a year has definitely been a talking point in many interviews! Hopefully something will be secured soon!

It perhaps sounds clichéd to say that Saltire changed my life but I was genuinely amazed at how much I grew in two months. Before this year I took little participation in University extra curricular activities preferring to stick with the activities and friends I had gained outwith class. Since returning I have become President of both the Strathclyde Economic Society and the Strathclyde Graduate Ball Committee. Saltire enabled me to realise my potential and gave me the confidence to get involved in University and try to improve my own experience and that of younger students through the Society.

I have also been actively involved in the Alumni since returning and am part of the Alumni Relations Team, which aim to 'maximise the opportunities of the SaltireFoundation Alumni members through supporting enhanced communication, improving networking capabilities and to promote the sharing of knowledge for the long term benefit of Scotland’s future. We aim to encourage all members to contribute effectively and to offer support to new interns throughout their internship experience'

One of the most positive outcomes of the Alumni this year is the establishment of the Intern Mentor System to help guide and support the new Inters. Thanks to everyone who has volunteered to participate, it is very much appreciated and is a real step forward in improving the Saltire Experience.

 We are also in the process of organising several fundraising events to help support the Saltire Foundation and continue its work.

I would like to wish every applicant to the Saltire Foundation 2010 internship programme the very best of luck. After participating in the interview process I am confident this year will be bring another intake of outstanding talent, to further Saltire, further the Alumni and ultimately further Scotland.