Thirty years on: Graduate follows in her mum’s footsteps at Liverpool

Congratulations on graduating! What inspired you to choose Marketing at the University of Liverpool?

Thanks! After studying marketing in Business A Level and a few different work experiences, I knew I wanted to study marketing in more detail. After considering a few options, Liverpool stood out to me as an accredited Russell Group University. I visited an Open Day in September 2019 and instantly loved it. Driving in, I was giggling at a Father Christmas Jürgen Klopp cut-out hanging out of a chimney in Wavertree. After listening to a few subject talks, my mum (a 1990 graduate) gave me a tour of her old favourite spots, like The Bluecoat and Sefton Park. I really liked the city-campus vibe and how friendly everyone was. It just felt like the right place for me.

Graduating 30 years after your mum must have been such a special moment. What was it like sharing that milestone together and how has her journey influenced your own?

I knew it was going to be a special day, with both my mum and I graduating in the Philharmonic Hall, wearing our black gowns with pink hoods. One moment that really stuck with me was when “There She Goes” by The La’s played just before the ceremony. I knew it would set off the tears. It felt like a full-circle moment for her, having seen the band live around Liverpool so many times, and now watching her daughter cross the same stage.

My mum always told me that university is full of highs and lows. Knowing she walked down Woodcroft Road thirty years before me, worrying about jobs, grades, and the future, brought me a lot of comfort when I found myself stressing over the same things. It reminded me she’s proud of where she ended up, and I should really worry less too!

Evelyn and her mum, Jane Findlay, graduating 30 years apart 

How are you celebrating your graduation together, and have you made any special memories with your mum during your time at Liverpool?

We celebrated by staying at The Municipal Hotel the night before, grabbed pizzas from Rudy’s, and reminiscing around Albert Dock. We even made a TikTok of her wearing my gown since she’s lost many of her own graduation photos!

I’ve made so many lovely memories with my mum in our university city, sharing places we both love. I showed her Lark Lane and Otterspool Promenade, both have changed so much in recent years, and she drove me across to Thurstaston on the Wirral, and up to Formby (one of our favourite places).

You’ve been involved in so many societies and activities including Wirral Unplugged and Amnesty International Society, to name a few. How did these enrich your university experience?

I loved meeting people outside of my accommodation and course bubble. Being part of societies helped me connect with people from different courses and areas, which was great for building a wider network.

It also gave me a chance to give back. Liverpool supported me throughout my time there, whether it was a cheerful waitress or a friendly neighbour. Getting involved with social enterprises like Wirral Unplugged and Liverpool SOUP felt like a way to give something back to the city that had supported me.

You’ve recently started a new role at Ohpen – congratulations! What excites you most about this next chapter in your marketing career?

Thanks! I’m really excited to dive into a new industry. After gaining experience in automotive at Volkswagen and in higher education with Liverpool Guild of Students, I’m looking forward to learning more about FinTech and the unique challenges and opportunities it offers. Both the automotive and FinTech sectors have traditionally lacked female representation, so I’m especially keen to learn, grow, and hopefully inspire others to get involved too.

What advice would you give to future students about getting the most out of university life?

• Break down each year into a different focus. For me, first year was about settling in. I focused on making friends, understanding assignments and referencing, exploring the city, and getting involved in societies.
• Second year was about boosting my employability, get involved in work experience, or a part-time job. Enjoy the perks of living off-campus, through house trips to Crosby, or runs around Sefton.
• If you have a placement year, try to get involved and network with your colleagues!
• In final year, work hard and study, but remember to enjoy Liverpool. It’s an amazing city and make a bucket-list of things you’d like to do before you leave.

Finally, if you could describe your time at the University of Liverpool in three words, what would they be and why?

Empowering, rewarding and memorable.