Shell Step Student
Martina Rieder, aged 24, who is studying Biochemistry and Management Studies at The University of Sussex, overcame stiff competition from some of the brightest and most enterprising students in the UK to win a £1000 top prize and Step trophy.
Step is a national programme arranging structured summer work placements for students at small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). It matches highly skilled undergraduates to SMEs with specific development projects.
Students put the theory they have learnt at university into practice, whilst developing key skills such as time-management, teamwork and financial planning. For host companies, placements can increase the growth and innovation potential of the business - the 2004 Exit Survey revealed that 97% of employers felt that having a Step student would have a positive effect on their company.
Patsie Sutcliffe who runs SInC’s Step placement scheme is delighted with the result: “Martina put her heart and soul into this project, so it is wonderful to see her dedication rewarded in this way. Everyone at SInC is extremely proud of her achievement, which will prove an inspiration to other students in Sussex who may be considering entering the programme.”
Speaking at the eighteenth Step UK Final, Nigel Griffiths MP, Minister for Small Business & Enterprise, said: “Step is a terrific scheme allowing young people to ‘make their mark’ and it reminds businesses about the wealth of talent our undergraduates have. Students see at first hand what enterprise is all about. Step has an immediate, positive impact on those businesses taking part, not least in helping them identify and plug any gaps in their skills bases. I urge all businesses to get involved and benefit from our highly skilled, energetic and talented young people. I warmly congratulate all those who were involved in Step in 2004
Commenting on the award, Martina said: “I am so happy. This is a fantastic award and Step has been an amazing experience. I hope that with my project I have really improved the quality of patients’ lives. That’s what is most important for me.”
Dr Rory Smith, Director of Research and Development at Welland Medical Limited, said: “Martina has been an outstanding contributor to not just one but two significant projects. Success in one would have been a brilliant achievement, but to have achieved so much in both is a tribute to her dedication, energy and commitment. And, of course, it’s a wonderful boost for Welland Medical.”
For more information on the Step programme contact Patsie Sutcliffe on 01273 704404
