Sam Girling

In the summer of 2023, between my second and third years of University, I decided to start sharing the knowledge I had gained from my education with friends and family online, via Instagram. This generated a lot of interest, which I am very grateful for, and soon developed into somewhat of a part-time job. Posting twice a day on both Instagram and TikTok, I have watched my following grow by the hundreds in just a matter of months. Delivering no-cost-to-consumer content, that is backed by the most contemporary research evidence and literature is something that has become a big part of my life. The positive feedback has been overwhelming and has translated into approaches from many people asking for advice, meal plans and nutrition coaching. My desire to help others meant I soon found myself generating a clientele that has proved so rewarding. I am constantly learning so much from this experience and I am excited for where it might go.

What started as a hobby and soon became a 'weekend' job, with some financial incentive. My career as a DJ has moved from strength to strength in recent years and I'm proud of the progress I have made. Starting at small parties and now playing in large clubs and bars in Essex, my work has a DJ has taught me so many valuable skills. The virtue of patience is one of the many skills that comes to mind, as learning and refining my technical skills took a lot of time and practice. Organisation is another key skill I have developed during my time as DJ, with this skill needed in abundance when throwing parties or events. This falls hand-in-hand with the communication skills I have developed, as I collaborate with other DJs and work with clients to deliver the perfect set. I love the creativity that being a DJ offers and I am grateful for all of the valuable and transferrable skills and experience I have learned from my exposure to this field of work.

I am also proud to say that I have conducted several charity events as a DJ, raising money for several foundations with all the exceeds going to good causes.

I started work as a labourer for my Dad's company the day I finished my final GCSE. He had recently lost his apprentice, so it presented an ideal opportunity to enter the world of work and gain experience immediately. I think this is testament to my work ethic and desire to learn and progress. I quickly realised that the world of construction did not align with my long term goals, but I recognised the potential for developing transferrable skills to the broader world of employment. I realised that I had the ability to apply myself in contexts and disciplines that were alien to me. I have worked with power tools and specialist equipment which demonstrates my capacity to learn. The interaction with customers is yet another valuable asset I draw from my experience working in construction. It is important to treat customers with respect, being friendly, empathetic and understanding of their wants and needs. I worked under my Dad for over 6 years, in between college and University. However, I recently took the decisions to leave that world behind as I focus on the final year of Bachelor's Nutrition (Exercise & Health) Degree at Kingston University.