Find out more about what former student Guy Thurlow did next after studying BTEC Business at The Henley College.
We love to find out what our past students have achieved since leaving The Henley College, so it was great to hear from alumni Guy Thurlow who has just received a First in Business Team Entrepreneurship from The University of the West of England Bristol.
We asked Guy some questions about his time at the College and what his advice is to people who are about to get their GCSEs.
Where do you come from and what are you doing now?
My name is Guy, I’m 22, I am from Sonning Common, Reading and I am a recent Business Entrepreneurship graduate who is now looking to take a variety of start-ups to the next level.
When did you come to The Henley College, what did you study here, and how did you get on?
I came to The Henley College in 2014, I originally studied Business, Psychology, PE & History at AS Level but then switched courses to BTEC Business after a year, I finished with Distinction*.
What was your first impression of The Henley College?
That it was a place focused on diversity, with a care for each individual student.
Why did you choose to come here?
My brother had an amazing time and recommended it, whilst I loved the fact there was plenty of freedom for students.
What is your best memory of your time at The Henley College and why?
Meeting lots of people who I am still friends with now as well as my time playing football for the college.
Did you always want to do what you are doing now?
Yes, from a very early age I was interested in business and specifically entrepreneurship.
What has influenced your decisions about the subjects you have studied and the career path you have chosen?
Seeing people all over the world, regardless of background, having success with their companies, it has really inspired me to learn more about entrepreneurship to a degree level but also set up my own companies now.
Business Team Entrepreneurship is the most incredible degree for anyone who is interested in business and enjoys working with others. This is not a typical degree, you will undertake real business activities and be graded on your learning and reflection, not how you perform in an exam.
What are your ambitions for the future?
I’ve learned that ‘being rich’ isn’t something you should strive towards. I think being happy with what you are doing day to day is far more important, if you are happy, you will work harder, which will ultimately earn you more money in the long run.
My ambitions for the future are to run a business that becomes recognised by others in that industry, but only if I am truly happy and enjoying what I’m doing.
What do you think The Henley College did for you – aside from the qualifications you gained?
The Henley College taught me to be self-managed, as you realise that things won’t be handed to you on a plate like in school. This has really helped me in further education and life as an entrepreneur.
If you had one piece of advice for a 15-16 year old thinking about their future, what would it be?
My advice would be to remain open-minded. You will find your passion, it may just take longer than others. You should never compare yourself and always take any opportunity that comes your way, you never know where it may take you.
If you would like to follow in Guy’s footsteps and develop your entrepreneurial skills then there’s still time to apply for our Business Extended Diploma which starts this September. Find out more here >>Business Extended Diploma Level 3
