Sam Catling

Since an early age I have been the type of person who puts others before himself. Nothing gives me more satisfaction than having made a positive impact on somebody’s day.
It was because of this mentality that enabled me to get a lucky break after college, where I got a job working on board cruise ships and started travelling the world as an entertainer.
It was the best time of my life. Every day waking up in a new port, meeting new people and visiting new places.
My role was essentially all forms of animation on board. So I spent time writing quizzes, conceptualizing game shows, teaching dancing, hosting sporting tournaments and leading tours.
After 4 years of on and off again contract work with various different cruise lines and hotel chains, I decided I would take my experiences and try to find a new career that suited me. I moved to London and started working in sales, where I worked a standard 9-5.
The job could not have been more opposite from that of my previous career. However I stuck it out for 9 months cold calling people and trying to sell toners over the phone.

I then fell into the promotions and marketing industry, as a Brand ambassador/ Event manager where I worked on loads of different campaigns for many corporate clients. This was the precursor I needed to help me figure out my chosen field of study.
I am at Middlesex University in my first year studying Music Business and Arts management where I hope to gain experience and knowledge within the music industry.
I have come to realise that live events management within this thriving industry is the way forward for my future, and I want to do my part however big or small.
I have been elected as the student voice leader on my course and team leader for my group. We are currently in the process of organising and creating a pre-launch party/reception for the release of the student record label, ‘Grove Records’.