Rory Kane - Graduate Case Study
Rory Kane graduated in 2025 with a degree in Business with International Business Management. He has secured a role as a Business Development Coordinator for Generative Minds after initially completing an LJMU-funded Discovery Internship with the company.
What will your job involve?
- Lead Generation
- Market Research
- Digital Marketing
- Relationship Management
- Event Coordination
Three things you are looking forward to about your job
Helping people grow with AI
I love being able to support employees as they learn new skills in the age of AI. For me, it’s about making sure people feel confident and capable, rather than left behind by technology. Seeing that spark when someone realises they can use AI to make their work easier or more meaningful is incredibly rewarding.
Capturing moments and sharing stories
I really enjoy being at events and workshops, capturing those moments that show the real impact of what we do. Sharing these stories on social media is exciting because it brings our work to life and helps others see the difference we’re making. It’s a way of celebrating both the big achievements and the small wins along the way.
Growing our reach and impact
I’m looking forward to helping us expand our client base here in the UK, and eventually internationally. The idea of working with new organisations, learning about their challenges, and showing them how AI can support their goals is something I find really motivating. It feels like the start of a journey with so much potential.
What did the application or selection process involve, and how did you prepare for each stage?
I applied for a Discovery Internship at Generative Minds through Unitemps by submitting a tailored CV and covering letter that highlighted my relevant skills and enthusiasm for the role. After being shortlisted, I was invited to an interview, where I delivered a presentation and responded to a set of questions about my experience and motivation.
To prepare, I researched the company’s mission and projects to align my presentation with their goals, and I practised clear, confident delivery. I also reflected on past experiences to provide strong, relevant examples during the interview.
After successfully completing a three-month internship as an Events Coordinator, I was offered a full-time position as a Business Development Coordinator upon graduation.
What help and support did you access from the Student Futures team?
I booked a one-to-one careers meeting and explained the experiences and skills I have. From this, the team was able to help me condense all my key experiences into one compelling CV.
What relevant work experience, skills, volunteering or Student Union activities did you use during the selection process?
My journey toward becoming an employable graduate at LJMU began in my second year, when I volunteered in Sri Lanka through the charity Travelteer. The LJMU Go Abroad team provided both a grant and guidance on applications and visas, which enabled me to contribute to marine wildlife conservation and support English language development in a local school during the summer of 2023.
Inspired by this experience, I applied for a study abroad year in my third year and spent a year at BI Business School in Oslo, Norway. During this time, I became involved in student societies such as the Web3 Society and led a student consultancy project, collaborating with a local Norwegian tech startup as part of my Strategic Sustainable Innovation class.
Returning to LJMU for my final year, I gained practical business experience by completing three internships, including my role with Generative Minds, which further prepared me for the transition into full-time employment.
What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability?
My biggest piece of advice is to start early. Get involved in as many opportunities as you can, whether that’s joining student societies, attending events at LJMU, or engaging with the wider local business community. These experiences help you build networks, confidence, and transferable skills.
Make the most of the support and opportunities LJMU provides. This could include volunteering or studying abroad, taking a placement year, or applying for paid internships. The Student Futures Team is also a fantastic resource, offering guidance on CVs, interview preparation, and career planning. By actively engaging with these opportunities, you’ll not only increase your employability but also find out what kind of career path excites you most.
Would you do anything differently in terms of your employability if you were a first-year student again?
I would have joined more societies and attended more networking events much earlier in my university journey. I waited until later on, and while I still gained a lot of valuable experience, I now see the benefit of getting involved right from the start.
My advice to other students is to push yourself out of your comfort zone early. By putting yourself in the deep end, you’ll gain experience, build networks, and develop the confidence you need to stand out by the time you graduate.
How has studying your specific degree subject at LJMU helped you to develop the skills, knowledge and experiences that will help you in your future career?
Studying International Business at LJMU has enabled me to communicate and talk to anybody. From studying cross-cultural business communication modules I had the confidences to live abroad and work with people for all over the world.
Have you faced any challenges making the transition from university into work either as a student or as a graduate, and if so, how did you overcome these?
The challenge
In university, my projects had clear, fixed deadlines, and I was used to managing my own schedule independently. However, during my work experience, I quickly learned that professional projects involve moving targets, constant collaboration, and input from multiple stakeholders. My time management and project planning skills needed to evolve beyond a simple to-do list.
How I overcame it
I took a proactive approach. I spoke with my manager to understand the team's project management tools and communication protocols, and I learned to use the company's dedicated software to better track tasks. I also began checking in with colleagues more frequently to ensure I was aligned with their timelines. I found that breaking large tasks into smaller, manageable steps and setting mini-deadlines for myself was key. This not only kept me on track but also made it easier to provide consistent updates to my team.
Any other advice you would give to LJMU students around careers and employability or your own experiences not covered in these questions?
Don’t be afraid to reach out for support. You’re never on your own at university, and LJMU has dedicated teams with the expertise to guide you if you feel uncertain or need clarity about your next steps beyond your studies.
There are so many resources available to help you build your confidence and prepare for life after graduation. Sometimes all it takes is booking that first meeting or making that initial call to open the door to new opportunities and guidance.
Support from the Student Futures team
If you want to talk about potential careers options with your degree, need help finding opportunities or want support with your CV, application forms or preparing for an interview, you can get advice and guidance by booking a 30-minute 1-2-1 careers meeting with a Careers and Employability Adviser from the LJMU Student Futures Team. You can also come along to a Careers drop-in or CV Café which take place weekly at the Careers Zones for quick careers queries.
If you are thinking about starting a business, freelancing, pursuing a side-hustle or have an idea that you want to explore further, email the Start-up Hub and a member of the team will be back in touch, or visit the Start-up Hub website.
For help finding part-time, temporary or casual you can fit around your studies, email the Unitemps team or visit their website.