Mairi Wallace
2026 Saltire Scholar
Marketing Intern, 1st Class Credit Union
Business with Marketing and Human Resource Management, University of Strathclyde
My name is Mairi Wallace, and I study Business with Marketing and Human Resource Management at the University of Strathclyde.
I first heard about the Saltire Scholars Programme through my sister, who had recently completed it herself and encouraged me to apply. I was incredibly nervous before the assessment centre, but it turned out to be a brilliant experience and a day I genuinely enjoyed.
A few months later, I moved to Hong Kong for my study-abroad semester. Alongside exploring a new city, I was constantly checking the candidate pool, submitting applications and attending interviews—sometimes as late as 10pm because of the time difference. I faced several rejections along the way, but I kept going. I didn’t secure my internship until June, which taught me how important it is to persevere, even when it feels like time is running out.
Shortly after returning from Hong Kong, I interviewed with 1st Class Credit Union—my final opportunity to secure a Saltire internship. From the moment I walked into the office, I knew it was where I wanted to be. Before the interview, I didn’t even know what a credit union was. Now, after completing an internship that exceeded all my expectations, I have progressed into a permanent role as a Membership and Marketing Officer.
During my internship, I supported the marketing of 1st Class Credit Union by creating social media content, developing campaigns, and helping to produce and promote its Money Made Human podcast. One of my proudest moments was helping the podcast reach 2,000 downloads and seeing my work contribute to the organisation’s growing online presence.
This internship has completely changed how I see my future career. Before joining 1st Class Credit Union, I knew very little about the credit union movement, but I have discovered a sector that genuinely interests me and aligns with my values. Working for a not-for-profit organisation has shown me how I can use my marketing skills to support a meaningful purpose and make a real difference in people’s lives. It has also opened my eyes to new career possibilities and inspired me to focus my university dissertation on the credit union sector.
I would encourage any student considering the Saltire Scholars Programme to apply. Even if you feel nervous or experience rejection along the way, keep going—the right opportunity can arrive when you least expect it. The programme has given me much more than an internship: it has increased my confidence, shaped my career plans and ultimately led to a permanent role in a sector I genuinely care about.