Uni was the right choice for Viv

Viv Long, of Sundon Park, graduated from the University of Bedfordshire with a first class degree in BA Public Relations, she has now landed her dream job as a commercial assistant at Luton Town Football Club.

Her role involves working with stakeholders and attracting investment to the club through different commercial activities.

She said: “On a day to day basis we attract investment through sponsorships and player appearances and work closely with local businesses.

“It is a lot of hard work and you do lose your weekends but one of the best parts of my job is seeing the mascot’s face light up when they get to meet the Luton Town players.”

The 24-year-old almost did not make it to university, she considered dropping her A-Levels when all her friends were working full time jobs.

The former Halyard High School student said: “There was a point when I considered dropping out and getting a full time job like my mates.

“But I stuck at it and I am glad I did because I now have the job of my dreams.

“I would advise students who are considering their options to go to university, it helps you in so many ways and opens the door to so many opportunities it is the best thing I ever did.

“And those who have just graduated, do not be put down by set backs, even the chance of an interview is experience.”

Viv and her family are lifelong Hatters fans, she stumbled across her current position while working in a PR role at Sainsbury’s.

She said: “My previous job involved me organising events for the community.

“I got my dates mixed up and thought it was the year of Sport Relief, so I organised for the commercial manager of Luton Town and some of the players to come down to the store.

“It was actually the year of Comic Relief, but I got talking to the commercial manager and asked if there were any work placements available at the club, the ball got rolling from there.”

In five years time she hopes to be the commercial manager of a Premiership club.