My name is Abigail Canavan, and earlier this summer I graduated from the Glasgow School of Art with a BA (Hons) in Communication Design. I am now preparing to begin an MSc in Marketing at the University of Strathclyde. I applied to the Saltire Scholars Programme because I wasn’t sure what direction to take after finishing my undergraduate degree, and I believed an internship could give me both guidance and experience in a professional environment. I was particularly keen to gain insight into marketing, branding, or a creative field that would help me decide my next steps. This internship has done exactly that; it brought me closer to pursuing a creative career and ultimately gave me the clarity to pursue an MSc in Marketing.
I interned with ProceMX Ltd as a Marketing Development Intern. ProceMX is a software company that provides an all-in-one platform called MX, for managing work, people, and assets - especially helpful in high-pressure situations like disaster response. It helps teams stay coordinated, track resources, and make decisions quickly. My role involved creating content, developing the company’s brand and social media presence, researching competitors and client companies, and producing both visuals and written content for their new website. Although not directly tied to my degree, the internship included many design elements and allowed me to gain practical experience in marketing and brand development ahead of further study.
During my time at ProceMX, I posted about new platform features, developed branding guidelines, developed an explanatory video showcasing the software’s use in organising temporary housing, and contributed extensively to the new website through visuals and some copy. My work strengthened the company’s social media presence, highlighted the full capabilities of the software, and gave the business a more consistent and professional brand identity across online platforms and marketing materials. The most rewarding part was being trusted to design visuals and brand materials, drawing directly on my creative background. Having the chance to apply these skills outside of university was exciting and validating.
Overall, this experience has been transformative for me, both personally and professionally. Before Saltire Scholars, I often struggled with self-confidence and making my voice heard in professional settings. The steps leading to the candidate pool, though nerve-wracking, reassured me that I was capable and had valuable skills to offer. The internship reinforced this confidence: content creation, branding, and website development all required a creative eye that I was well-prepared to bring. My hard work over the summer has paid off. Not only did the internship guide my decision to pursue further study, but my role has also been extended so I can continue working flexibly alongside my MSc.
To any student considering applying to the Saltire Scholar Programme - do it. A year ago, I never imagined I would be where I am today, personally or professionally, and I am incredibly proud of how far this journey has taken me. At the start of my final year, I felt uncertain about what was next and unaware of the opportunities available. Becoming a Saltire Scholar opened doors to new experiences, skills, and connections. I would absolutely recommend it to others. To me, being a Saltire Scholar means taking initiative, trusting your own abilities, and facing challenges, both personal and professional, with confidence.
My advice to future scholars is this: enjoy the process, be open to new paths and ideas, and have confidence in yourself, because you should. You made it to the candidate pool for a reason, you secured an internship for a reason, and you are capable and committed to your future.
