Bright Local Student Wins Award

13 Nov 2009

University of Ulster student Kathryn Kyle from Maghera was honoured at a recent Innovation and Entrepreneurship Awards ceremony, run by the University of Ulster’s Business School.

Kathryn, who is studying for a BA Hons in Business and Retail at the University’s Coleraine campus, received the award for her contribution to innovation and excellence in Northern Ireland’s business community for work whilst a placement student with NIE Energy.

Kathryn completed her student placement with NIE Energy’s Marketing and Communications department and whilst there, organised a campaign to promote ways to let NIE Energy customers know about discounted electricity. The campaign included designing a leaflet, making the leaflet available online and organising promotional material and activities at the Balmoral Show in Belfast.

Kathryn Kyle told us: “I am very pleased to have won the award for my placement innovation project. I enjoyed and benefited greatly from my year working at NIE Energy. I gained valuable experience in the Marketing and Communications sector and I would advise other students to try and secure a placement to add to their skills and knowledge.”

The Ulster Business School wants students like Kathryn to build hands-on business experience for their future. The awards also emphasises the additional benefits placements bring to both students and employers.

Kathryn’s placement employer from NIE Energy, Kerstie Forsyth added: “From the very start of Kathryn’s placement year with us, it was clear she was a self starter. NIE Energy aims to give all our placement students as much experience as possible in the sector they have chosen.

“I am really delighted that Kathryn’s work has been officially recognised in this way and would encourage other students looking for a marketing and communication’s placement to keep their eye out for placement year positions with NIE Energy.”

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Professor Marie McHugh, Dean of the Ulster Business School said: “We are delighted to celebrate the success of our students and their placement providers.”

Photo caption - Kathryn Kyle from Maghera is pictured (L) receiving her award from (R) Professor Marie McHugh, Dean of the Ulster Business School. Also with Kerstie Forsyth from NIE Energy.

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