Marjon alumna Georgie Pickering turns lived experience into community impact

Released: 25.05.26

Alumna spotlight: Georgie Pickering
BA (Hons) Sociology with Community Practice, 2012

Marjon alumna Georgie Pickering has built a career rooted in people, purpose and community impact. Now an Industry Engagement Consultant at Truro and Penwith College, Georgie also runs her own micro business, Perfectly Imperfect Cornwall, supporting parents, young people and workplaces through honest conversations, practical workshops and accessible educational talks.

Building a people‑focused career

Reflecting on life since graduating, Georgie says the most rewarding aspect of her work is its human focus.

“I love how people‑focused my work is now. I spend my days meeting different people, supporting businesses with their vision and helping to bring it to life. Seeing the impact of our work – and the real opportunities it creates for learners – is incredibly rewarding.”

Alongside her professional role, Georgie works with organisations to help them better support employees who are balancing parenting alongside their careers. She also speaks openly about the importance of supportive leadership.

“I feel very grateful to work within a team with such supportive management, who genuinely champion a healthy work–life balance and support me to be the best mum I can be to my two young children, while also having a career I enjoy.”

Perfectly Imperfect Cornwall

Georgie is also the founder of Perfectly Imperfect Cornwall, a project close to her heart. Drawing on her own lived experience as a former emotionally based school‑avoidant student and now a SEND parent, she supports others navigating similar challenges.

“The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has all led me to where I am now. I’m living a life I’m incredibly proud of - and Marjon played a big part in that.”

Memories of Marjon

Georgie’s decision to go to university was a significant and courageous step. Despite ongoing mental health challenges during her college years, she successfully completed her A‑Levels with strong tutor support and took control of her university application.

“Marjon was such a personable campus. From the outset there was always a family feel. I’ll never forget the first few days - within a week we were in sumo suits wrestling in the main hall, and suddenly a new family was born.”

She fondly recalls late‑night conversations in halls, sunny afternoons on campus, lifelong friendships and the shared experience of navigating academic pressures together.

“The support from the Senior Resident Students was invaluable, and the tutors always believed in you - offering motivation, encouragement and discipline when needed. Marjon really was the catalyst for me, both personally and professionally.”

Overcoming challenges and learning lessons

Georgie is open about the challenges she faced during her studies.

“Academically, I always found things tough - my strengths lie more in the practical ‘doing’. Motivation and resilience didn’t always come easily, but there was always support on the hard days.”

Looking back, she reflects on how university helped her develop independence and self‑belief.

“There’s a moment when it clicks that you’re responsible for your future. It happens at different times for everyone, but learning to balance work with fun is such an important life skill.”

Advice for current students and graduates

Georgie’s advice is grounded in realism and kindness.

“Take the opportunities that feel right for you and trust your gut. Push through the doubtful days - there will be many - and remember to take breaks. Some days the words will flow, other days they won’t, and that’s okay.”

Her career advice is equally clear:

“Know your value, believe in yourself and never lose the passion.”

Life after graduation

After graduating from Marjon in 2012, Georgie moved to Bristol, where she worked as an Engagement Worker in youth work and later in employment support at City of Bristol College, before returning to Cornwall to start a family and continue her professional journey.

She adds her thanks to those who supported her along the way:

“Paul Sutton, thank you for supporting me every step of the way. And to Zoe and Benson – the best Senior Resident Students. The experience wouldn’t have been the same without you.”