DCG Success Stories

When former Derby College BTEC Business student Arvin Johal went to university, his college tutors were confident he could get a First Class honours degree.

Arvin has always hated exams but he did not let them down – graduating this summer from the University of Derby with a First in Business Management (CMI Accredited).

Now a graduate intern with the university’s Widening Access team, he is using his skills and knowledge gained through college and university to promote university to school and college students.

He said: “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after GCSEs, until my lecturers at  Derby College suggested I take the level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Business. They were so encouraging and their faith in me has paid off. Gaining a First was hard work but I got there in the end.”

In his graduate intern role, Arvin helps organise events, delivers presentations and attends outreach visits to local schools and colleges.

The team targets underrepresented groups, including care leavers, pupil premium and free school meal children, children from military families and those living in specific post codes within Derby and Derbyshire, with the aim of broadening their opportunities and improving social mobility.

Arvin would like to be a senior officer or facilitator in the university department, but for the time being is focused on enjoying settling into the role, developing his experience, and using his skills.

He added: “Because I left university so recently, the school students I’ve spoken to on HE and careers fairs have said they find me relatable. It’s so rewarding to see the positive impact we’re making on young people’s lives.

“I’d be more than happy to come back into Derby College and speak to students about my BTEC course and where it has led me so far.”