Alumnus Kyle Frank tells us about his studies and setting up on his own

Kyle Frank studied a BA Hons in Applied Psychology and Sociology and graduated in 2015. He has since set up his own vegan skincare company. He shares his story with us:

What you have got up to since leaving the university?

After leaving university I believe I was in bit of a panic mode – I was not certain on what I wanted to do. I had the opportunity to be an English teacher, but after careful consideration I felt it was not the right career for me. I took some time out – travelled to different countries, and experienced diverse cultures and attitudes. What I learnt along my journey was truly a pivotal moment, and allowed me to free myself from the eurocentric understanding of career and work.

I worked part-time in fashion, while studying closely alongside The Prince’s Trust and completed their business enterprise programme.

I had the opportunity to work with amazing people in business who are specialists in their field, and was learning the key fundamentals of business. I also volunteered with amazing local community projects.

What you are doing now?

I am a entrepreneur – I launched my own self-funded vegan skincare company, FRANK’S REMEDIES. After having acne for several years, and not seeing permanent results, I made it my quest to create a natural solution. Through my own means of study in antiquated literature, and absorbing information on how different cultures deal with acne. I created and formulated my own natural skincare range that finally cleared my skin. A highlight has been being featured in ELLE and Vegan Life as a top ethical brand!

https://www.franksremedies.com

@franksremedies

How your degree helped you with your career?

Studying for my degree, gave me a great deal of understanding of society in the ways of which we work together as a collective. Other than knowledge on theories, and theoretical perspectives, it has equipped me with skills that I use on a daily basis, and has enriched my understanding of how business works in a commercial & corporate world.

Any tips for students or recent graduates?

Don’t overthink the future, focus on the moment – its all going to be OK. Also have a friendship group that you can work on projects/assignment(s) with together – I think it’s important to smile and laugh during your experience! It doesn’t need to be so serious all the time.

For the graduates, focus on your passion/message, and see how you can help the world & make sure to network. Feel free to take some time out if you need to, there is no pressure to have it all together! 😊

What is your standout memory from your time at Brighton?

There are many, but I believe a standout memory was being with my friends. We all supported each other, and spent many fun nights in the library together completing assignments! I think it was helpful and important to have that. As as a student, you can easily burn yourself out, so it was great to have friends around you who knew when one of us needed a change of scenery. In hindsight, I would say that memory alone was an essential stage in my university journey were I felt confident, calm and relaxed with my studies/assignments & this positively reflected in my grades.

Thanks for sharing your story Kyle. Don’t forget to check out his skincare range and follow him on Twitter (@franksremedies). If you have a story to share with us, please get in touch alumni@brighton.ac.uk.