Daniel Gear, NB Communication
The web design company NB Communication in Lerwick has taken Daniel on a 12 month graduate placement to develop their new website optimisation service.
What is your background?
I'm originally from the island of Yell in Shetland. After I finished school, I took a year out to work and save up for university. In 2006 I began my studies at the Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen. I studied a degree in Graphic Design at Gray's School of Art, and graduated in 2010 with First Class Honours.
Why did you apply to the TalentScotland Graduate Placement Programme?
After I finished my degree, I decided that I'd like to move back up to Shetland to enjoy the quieter life again! To begin with I worked for Shetland Grasscutting Services (SGS) as a supervisor and temporary manager, which paid the bills.
However, the grass-cutting season was ending as winter approached. I was made aware of the graduate placement within NB Communication just as I was finishing my job with SGS, which was perfect timing. I applied for the job, and was lucky enough to get it, which has saved me from a miserable winter of unemployment!!
How have you benefited from the programme?
I have gained employment in the web development industry, which adds another string to my bow. I can now carry out design work with a much more detailed understanding of the technical issues involved in the web development process. Ultimately I have benefited because I have found interesting work, I can afford to pay the bills, and I'm not wasting my four years at university.
What advice would you give to other graduates?
I'd say "be ambitious and work hard".