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Announcements > General Information > Interview with Priya Aggarwal Shah - Class of 2011

Interview with Priya Aggarwal Shah - Class of 2011

Meet Priya, an ex student as featured in the WGGS Economics Magazine December 23 issue.
Priya Aggarwal Shah - Class of 2011
Priya Aggarwal Shah - Class of 2011

What is your job description? What does a typical working day entail?

I run my own business in Public Relations, social media and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Consultancy, with a focus on property companies. I initially set up this business as a networking group a few years ago, while I was working in PR and Public Affairs, but after the group took a life of its own, did exceedingly well and I grew increasingly passionate about it, I turned it into a limited company in summer 2020. I ran the side hustle alongside my full-time job but took the decision to quit working for someone and run my own company in summer 2022. One year in, I love being a creative entrepreneur – winning my own business, advising clients, having authority over my own work and lifestyle. I spend my days writing and creating interesting content, supporting my clients and organising events. I could be doing social media for a client in the morning, delivering a workshop to another one at lunchtime and then speaking on a panel event in the evening. Every day is genuinely varied, and I get a real sense of pride in delivering excellent work. I also have great work-life balance, with the freedom to work from anywhere, finish early and pause for gym breaks any time during the day.

 

What subject and where did you study for your undergraduate degree?  I studied Politics and International Studies at Warwick University from 2011-2014.

 

What advice would you give to someone aiming to earn a role in your industry? There two elements of my role – the actual work I do, which is a lot of media relations, social media, content creation and events – for this, you have to be a good communicator and creative. You have to be personable and confident in taking a leading role. Good content must also be adapted for different audiences. Having an understanding of different social media channels is also really important. The other part of my role is working for myself or being an ‘entrepreneur’ – I enjoy this, but it doesn’t come without its worries. I am responsible for creating and shaping my own work, ensuring I earn an income and building a positive reputation. I took the decision to work for myself after working for a few employers beforehand and I would highly recommend this to build your experience, skills, and connections.

 

What is your opinion of the importance of economics as a whole?   Extremely important. Economics is the foundation of all my work.

How did you cope with exam pressure and your university applications?   I tried not to follow the crowd and feel pressured into what many of my friends were doing. Everyone has their own unique style of revising and it’s important that you focus on what works for you. For me, that was revising in a quiet space on my own (rather than with friends), and taking regular breaks to exercise and do things I enjoyed, such as listening to music or catching up on a TV episode (we watched Netflix less during my A-levels!).

 

Was there anything in particular that you prioritised in order to secure your position now? I always say that your ‘network is your net worth’, so I prioritised networking and was always open to making connections. So many people opened doors for me, and I am where I am because of that. So, get out there and meet new people, build your connections and thus opportunities.

 

What are best and worst aspects of your current role?  Best – freedom to set my day how I wish. I am passionate about my work, that most of the time it doesn’t feel like work. I also like how my work educates others. Worst – chasing invoices!

 

Favourite sandwich?  Bombay sandwich, extra hot.

 

If there was one key tip you would give the students at WGGS, what would it be?  Explore a variety of options for your future – not just university, but apprenticeships are an increasingly important career option, as you can earn while you learn!

 

What are you currently watching on Netflix?  Currently doing a Harry Potter marathon.

 

Read our school magazines on the WGGS website: https://www.watfordgrammarschoolforgirls.org.uk/school-magazines/

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