Abigail Lowless

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Guildford Borough Council

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

When I graduated I got a place on the National Graduate Development Programme (now called Impact) in local government. I spent two years at a local council and worked across community services, elections, Human Resources, housing and community safety running projects and supporting the functions of the council. I gained so much experience both working front line with local communities and supporting the organisations internal processes. With this scheme I also achieved a level 7 qualification in strategic leadership and management and built a network of graduates across the country also enrolled on this scheme. When this scheme came to an end I secured a role at Guildford Borough Council as policy and performance officer, where I sit in the corporate management function, supporting with policy reviews, undertaking engagement and consultations activities as well as reporting to members. With local government reorganisation occurring in Surrey it is an exciting time to be involved in local government and I am looking forward to the work and opportunities ahead.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I always wanted to make an impact on local communities and this role has enabled me to do that. My current role is so varied and I have the opportunity to get involved in a range of different things so everyday I am learning something new.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was part of the Volleyball society and the Vice President of EX4Homeless.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

I was always interested in crime and I took a range of modules that aligned with this interest. I specifically enjoyed the forensics module as it was so different to all my other modules and found it challenging but rewarding.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

I loved the city. It was the perfect size of not being too big but also so much going on. I also enjoyed the campus.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

It was ranked highly for my course and I also wanted a campus university so it ticked all the boxes.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Analytical thinking and writing skills.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Take part in societies and volunteering so you can showcase your interest and passion for giving back to local communities and your drive when it comes to applying for roles.

What are your plans for the future?

Support Surrey through local government reorganisation and see what opportunities there are through it.