Alum of the Month
Angelina Burgess (nee Moska)
October 2017
New York Program
September 95 Intake
What and where did you study before your Mountbatten internship?
I studied Business Studies (with Spanish & Tourism) at Sheffield Hallam University, though I had also been working for many years in the travel industry and in teaching prior to joining Mountbatten (I think I was the oldest ever Intern!)
What made you apply for the Mountbatten programme?
I wanted a career break from teaching and to experience working abroad.
Describe your placement.
I interned for AT&T in the Labor Relations (Mergers & Acquisitions) Dept at their office in Morristown NJ. I was Executive Assistant to the Director and his team of Managers who were located in NJ, Atlanta & Chicago. I also supported one of the Managers in her role as President of IRRA (Industrial relations Research Association - now LERA!) NJ chapter.
What was the highlight/most memorable moment of your working experience during this year?
Helping to organise the IRRA Annual Conference at Westpoint Upstate NY, and travelling to San Fransisco.
What was the social highlight/most memorable moment during this year?
Meeting some amazing people from all over the world, and travelling!
Please share a little wisdom/philosophy that you acquired during your internship
Make the most of every opportunity, even if it’s making tannoy announcements or serving pizzas from a van at an Equestrian Event! See, do and go!!
What happened after completing the year - what did you do next?
My contract was extended for a further 6 months. When I returned to the UK I worked for Thomson Holidays at their HO in London as Safety First Manager, then in Overseas HR.
Where are you now in your working life and what do you do?
I have now settled in Shropshire and am currently Self Employed as a Trainer, following a career in teaching Travel & Tourism, and Business.
What has been your most interesting post Mountbatten role?
As Manager in Overseas HR at Thomson Holidays - I managed a team responsible for Overseas Resort Representatives!
Are you still in touch with any contacts you made whilst on the Programme (US or UK)?
Several - One of the Managers I worked for at AT&T, fellow interns in Australia, US and the UK. In 2013 I travelled back to NY with a fellow intern.
Is there any other information that you would like to be included?
Many of my students have been inspired by my experiences and achievements in NY and with Mountbatten - I feel I was able to motivate them and encourage their aspirations. I have so many very happy memories of my time on the Mountbatten programme, and will always be grateful for the incredible experience.
angelina.burgess@btinternet.com