When I applied to the Saltire Scholars Programme, I was about to enter my final year of studying Criminology and Social Policy at the University of Stirling. I knew I wanted an internship that would connect to my studies, push me outside the classroom, and give me the kind of real-world experience that future employers look for. The Saltire programme stood out because it promised more than just work experience, it offered the chance to take on meaningful projects and grow as a person.
Over the summer of 2025, I joined Morris & Spottiswood, a construction and fit-out company, as a Social Value Intern. At first, construction wasn’t an industry I imagined myself in, but that’s what made it exciting. I wanted to see how social policy could play a role in unexpected places.
The role gave me the chance to explore how businesses create, measure, and report their social impact. I spent much of my time researching social value frameworks, looking at both the older government models and the newer approaches, and analysing how these affect not only the company but also its clients and stakeholders. It was fascinating to me since a career in Social Value was something that I wasn’t aware of.
Alongside the research, I also got to support live community benefit projects as well as co-lead a challenge for the company to collectively complete 10,000 miles in August to raise funds for a charity. From running to cycling to walking, employees across the business joined in. It was amazing to watch so many people come together for an amazing cause.
Looking back, I’m proud of how much I grew in just a few months. I arrived nervous about whether I’d be able to contribute at a professional level, but I left with confidence in my ability to research, analyse, communicate, and even lead projects. Presenting my findings to colleagues and managers and co-leading the 10,000-mile challenge were things I never thought I’d have the confidence to do at the start of the summer.
For me, being a Saltire Scholar now means being part of a community of students who are curious, ambitious, and determined to make an impact. To anyone considering applying, my advice would be: go for it. You’ll gain more than just skills for your CV. You’ll gain new perspectives, new connections, and maybe even a new understanding of where your degree can take you.
This internship didn’t just give me experience; it gave me belief and confidence. Belief that my criminology and social policy background has a place in industries I hadn’t considered before, and confidence that I can step up to challenges I once thought was out of reach.
