Stefan makes his way from the deli counter to China

A trainee department store buyer from Norwich is heading off to Shanghai, China, as he continues his progression from deli counter assistant towards becoming an international buyer.  The opportunity arose for Stefan Young, who is taking a Business Management degree, after he successfully applied for the Study China programme.

Stefan, 26, works for Roys of Wroxham, where he began working in 2007 on the deli counter.  Stefan was keen to advance his career in retail and so enrolled on a BA (hons) Business Management course with City College Norwich.  Roys have supported Stefan in his studies, allowing him one day off each week to attend his course, as well as giving him the time off to make the trip to China.

Study China is a 3-week programme designed to educate and enrich undergraduates through a series of visits, experiences and intensive classes.  The programme will see Stefan taking part in intensive Chinese language classes, as well as learning about Chinese business, culture and society – providing an invaluable grounding for anyone seeking to do business in the country. 
 
Stefan discovered a passion for the international side of business whilst studying the international business module of his degree course.  He decided to apply for the Study China programme as he thought the experience would help the development of his career, particularly given the importance of China today as a global manufacturing base.

Looking forward to his trip to China, which commences on July 10th, Stefan said: “I believe it is essential to respect, understand and appreciate others to achieve success in the business world and I think the Study China programme will help me develop my understanding of Chinese culture which I can then use in my career as a buyer.”

Stefan’s story provides a great example of how improving your skills and gaining higher level qualifications can open doors.  Since starting his degree with City College Norwich Stefan has progressed from working on the deli counter and in the stockroom to becoming an assistant buyer and on to his current role as a trainee buyer.

Speaking about the Business Management degree at City College Norwich, Stefan said: “The degree is absolutely brilliant.  It has been such a life changing experience for me.   It has changed my outlook on life as it allows you to see what opportunities are out there and what it is possible to achieve in the future”.

For more information about the Study China programme, please visit: www.studychina.org.uk/