Marley Lawrence - BA (Hons) Events Management

Marley Lawrence crossed RGU’s graduation stage at P&J Live (TECA) in Aberdeen to accept his BA (Hons) in Events Management on Wednesday 13 July in front of family, friends, and fellow graduates. 

“I didn’t believe I had it in me—let alone graduate with a first,” says Marley. “To have excelled in something I love has been a huge personal achievement. Not only that, I was part of the cohort that successfully raised more than £12,500 for local charities through the events we organised. It’s something I am so proud to have been part of.” 

Marley found his career direction as an S5 pupil at Elgin High School, where he joined the extra-circular Events Management team and found his passion. At University, Marley enjoyed the support of his peers, teaching staff, and professional services, supporting him make that dream possible. 

“My RGU experience was fantastic,” says Marley. “I got to meet so many people and gain a lot of experience. I worked at some exciting events—with brands like Cadbury and the Nuart Festival in Aberdeen—which opened me up to a lot more amazing opportunities for my career. I would do it all again. 

“The Employability & Careers Service were always helpful throughout my journey. We often had masterclasses on CV writing skills and how to have an impactful LinkedIn account. These were especially useful for my professional development.” 

During his time at RGU, Marley was elected to be Vice-President of a charitable fundraising society, which raised money for breast cancer awareness. 

“It was encouraging to realise that I am capable of helping to lead the fundraising activities of my peers,” says Marley. “I gained great insight into the practical aspects of event management and fundraising from RGU's teaching staff, who were also industry professionals. That was important to me, and I was able to apply that insight into my own practice and in support of breast cancer awareness.” 

Studying with RGU throughout the lockdowns of the pandemic, Marley was within the first group of Events Management students to fully produce and manage live virtual events within a university setting as the restrictions began to ease. 

“The pandemic was hard for everyone,” says Marley. “I did have a lot of doubt if I should continue with this path—as there were no events running during lockdowns. But I stuck to it and this was a truly valuable experience to have contributed to—especially with how uncertain life was back then. 

“The opportunity to organise and manage our own events from scratch was particularly exciting for me, as I already had some experience in this area.  

“Back when I was looking at other courses, the chance to gain practical experience and industry links through working at a wide selection of events was something only offered at RGU; a defining factor in my decision to apply. Alongside that, there were a huge array of opportunities to help develop my personal and professional abilities.” 

Marley will return to Robert Gordon University to study an MSc in International Tourism & Hospitality Management this September. 

He adds: “I’m hoping to pursue a career in the Scottish drinks industry, working within visitor experiences and events. I feel that have grown a lot more confident throughout my time at RGU. Having encouraging teaching staff and a great support network at the University was helpful in getting me to where I am today.”