Abi Inger – English

Foods and Hospitality Team Manager at M&S

Abi Inger studied her BA (Hons) in English at Newman University, graduating in 2019.

During her studies, Abi was able to participate in stimulating debates with her classmates, engaging in conversation with students from different backgrounds about a range of topics. Having a safe space to share opinions and discuss the themes of the core text books, brought Abi and her fellow students closer together as a cohort.

Unfortunately, Abi’s dad was diagnosed with Cancer during her final year. Despite this having a profound impact on her University experience and studies, Abi was able to complete her degree and assignments and graduate with an upper second class degree. Abi explains that her lecturers and the university Student Support team worked flexibly with her to ensure she had the support she needed to complete her studies.

“During this period Newman were flexible, supportive and let me lead the way with what I felt was the right thing to do at the time, which is something I don’t think a big university would offer. At Newman you’re more than just a number.”

Since graduating Abi has been working as a Foods and Hospitality Team Manager at M&S, managing a team that delivers a high standard of customer service and having overall responsibility for the day to day operations of an area of the business with exceptionally high turnover.

Abi is looking to continuing working for M&S as a senior member of Store Management, working collaboratively with Head Office to help influence their communications strategies in store.

Abi credits Newman University with giving her the independence and confidence to achieve her career goals, commenting “Newman taught me how to be a critical thinker. Getting used to working independently was a challenge, but one which I’m grateful for as I can now be fully independent in my work and successfully manage my time.”