Connie Woods – a student at Queen’s University – will have her final-year tuition fees fully paid after taking first place in the Choice Housing Placement Programme competition.
After securing a competitive spot in Choice Housing’s 2025/26 paid student placement scheme alongside six peers from Queen’s and Ulster University, Connie spent the past year gaining hands-on experience in the organisation’s Communications and Marketing team.
Choice Housing Placement Programme
Business Management student Connie secured first place in Choice’s end-of-year placement challenge with an ambitious video-first digital strategy. Her winning proposal was informed by a full audit of the housing associations current online footprint, a competitive market analysis and a detailed resource and cost model for full delivery. The project concluded in a presentation to senior management on the proposal, which included a Q&A.
Michael McDonnell, Choice Group Chief Executive, said: “Since launching the programme, we have provided invaluable practical experience and support to 40 students from across the region. Their enthusiasm, adaptability, and readiness to dive straight into real-world challenges have been truly impressive.
“Whilst the end-of-year challenge offers a significant financial incentive, it also gives us a vital opportunity to evaluate what skills and experience the students have gained during their time with Choice. At the same time, we benefit from fresh perspectives offered by those at the very beginning of their careers.
“I want to congratulate Connie and thank all our placement students for making a real impact in their roles over the past year. We wish them the absolute best as they enter their final year of study,” he added.
The programme, which was set up in memory of former Choice colleague, Brian McKenna, aims to provide opportunities for young people to gain practical experience in the world of work and develop both professionally and personally as a result.
Brian, who passed away in February 2019 made a huge contribution during his time with Choice and was passionate about working to improve the lives and opportunities for young people.
During her time with Choice, Connie was provided with ongoing support through a mentor who guided her as she gained experience and developed skills aimed at preparing her for employment, through practical learning and real time problem solving.
Speaking about her experience, Connie said: “Competing in the Placement Programme competition was an invaluable experience, giving me the opportunity to present my business improvement idea to Choice. I am extremely grateful that they too could see the potential within the video-first digital strategy. It was a fulfilling way to conclude a wonderful placement year.”
The ‘Brian McKenna Student Placement Programme’ offers students the opportunity to gain experience across a range of departments within the organisation, including HR, Corporate Services, Finance, ICT, and Assets and Development whilst earning a competitive salary, including all associated benefits and flexible working hours.
For further information, or to apply for the programme, see QUB ’My Future’ website, Ulster University’s website, and Choice Housing’s website.
With a staff of c500 people, Choice provides a mix of supported, sheltered and general needs housing across Northern Ireland, providing over 14,000 homes across the region.
