I started College feeling quite shy, not particularly academic, and with absolutely no idea what I wanted to do in the future. I chose Sport simply because it was something I genuinely enjoyed, but it ended up shaping my whole direction.

My Sport classes changed everything for me. Everyone was welcoming, I loved the course content, and I had brilliant teachers who really supported and encouraged us. For the first time, I found myself genuinely enjoying studying and doing extremely well in my classes.

My time at College gave me confidence in myself and helped me realise that I could succeed academically when I was studying something I was passionate about. It ultimately led me to study Sports Management at university and pursue a career within the industry.

University was one of the best experiences of my life and completely shaped me as a person. When I started, I was still quite shy and unsure of myself, but by the time I graduated I had become much more confident, outgoing and independent.

My planned placement year coincide with the pandemic, so I was unable to follow the typical route. Instead, I created my own opportunities by completing my Personal Training qualification and focusing on self-development. During this time, I received Bournemouth University’s Innovation Employability Award, which is something I am still extremely proud of.

After university, finding a graduate role was much tougher than expected. I eventually secured a role in client account management for a debt collection company. Although it was not within sport and I was unsure about it initially, I ended up loving the role and learned so much from it, particularly around communication, stakeholder management and building professional relationships.

After a year in that role, I decided to travel around Australia for 18 months, which was an incredible experience. At that stage, I still did not know exactly which area of sport I wanted to work in, but travelling gave me a lot of perspective and confidence.

I moved to Liverpool after travelling and I realised I wanted to build a career working within football clubs. Since then, I’ve loved developing my career within professional football and being part of such a fast-paced environment.

Breaking into football was extremely competitive and challenging. I started in a ticket office role, which was not necessarily where I imagined myself long term, but it was a brilliant entry point into professional football and taught me a huge amount. That opportunity ultimately led me to my current role at Everton Football Club, where I now work as a Premium Relationship Manager supporting premium members and matchday hospitality operations.

Looking ahead, I would love to move into partnerships within a football club. I am in no rush and am focused on learning as much as possible from every opportunity and experience so that when the right opportunity comes, I am ready for it.

One thing I wish I had known at College is that you do not need to have your entire future figured out straightaway. At the time, it can feel like everyone else knows exactly what they want to do, but in reality, your path develops over time through different experiences, opportunities and people you meet along the way.

My biggest piece of advice would be to talk to as many people as possible and put yourself out there, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Networking and building relationships can open doors you never expected.

I’d also encourage students to apply for opportunities even if they are not exactly the role they imagined themselves doing long term. Sometimes the best opportunities come from simply getting your foot in the door. My ticket office role, which was not my end goal, gave me valuable experience, introduced me to the industry and ultimately led me to my current role. Many people begin in reception, hospitality or entry-level roles and work their way up from there. And every role teaches you something valuable if you are willing to learn from it.

Heidi Martinez

Reigate College: 2016-2018

Higher Education: BSc Sports Management (with Placement Year), Bournemouth University

Currently: Premium Relationship Manager, Everton Football Club

The courses that we offer do change over time. Our past student profiles include the closest match in qualifications that are currently available at the College.