Jessica Ainscough, 21, from Bolton, graduated with a BSc (Hons) Marketing from Edge Hill University, having already secured a permanent role as a Marketing Executive for Stuart Energy, a company she first connected with through the University’s innovative Business School project.
Jessica’s journey to higher education began through Edge Hill’s Fastrack programme in 2023, an intensive transition course designed for students coming to university a bit older or with non-traditional qualifications.
Reflecting on her start, Jessica said:
“Fastrack was one of the best things that I have ever done. I met so many friends and felt so supported through the team that I worked with during those weeks. I am still close friends with the people I spent my time with on Fastrack.”
Once on her degree, Jessica threw herself into every opportunity available. She became heavily involved with the Business School’s ‘E-MERGE’ initiative, developing consultancy reports for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Her dedication to the projects not only earned her a University Scholarship in 2025 but also resulted in multiple job offers from local businesses, including her new employer, Stuart Energy.
Alongside her studies and freelancing work, Jessica’s global outlook was expanded in 2024 when she secured a fully funded summer abroad programme at Christ University in Bangalore, India:
“It really widened my perspective of the world… it was humbling and something I think that most people need to experience for their own growth. I am extremely grateful I had the opportunity.”
Speaking about her transition from student to professional, Jessica added:
“I think that Edge Hill has prepared me to do whatever I want to do. The Business School encourages you to follow what makes you happy and they are all so supportive.
“I have been offered a full-time role as a Marketing Executive with Stuart Energy, one of the SMEs from the E-MERGE project. We also have plans to continue working with Edge Hill, I really want to be able to mentor other students and be a role model for younger cohorts. My motto is to say yes to everything, because you can achieve whatever you set your mind to.”
Edge Hill University continues to champion student employability through practical experience, ensuring graduates like Jessica step straight out of the lecture hall and into thriving careers.
To find out more about the Business School and studying Marketing at Edge Hill University or come along to our next Open Days, Saturday 15 August, Saturday 17 October or Saturday 21 November.
August 5, 2026
