Catching up with... Sandra Hewett

This month we catch up with writer, coach and Kingston business studies graduate Sandra Hewett. She tells us about her new book, A Woman's Guide to Working for Herself which provides a motivational look at the rise of female entrepreneurs.

When were you at Kingston?

Oh dear... 1976–1980.

What degree did you do?

Business Studies BA(Hons).

What do you remember about your time at Kingston? In three words.

Playing squash, boyfriends!

Have you been back since graduation? If so when and what for?

Yes – to teach! And for a tutor retirement party.

Are you still in touch with anyone from your Kingston days?

Yes, a fellow PR luvvie.

What did you expect to do after graduating? Are you still doing that now?

Become a famous journalist. No.

Tell us about your new book...

It grew like topsy, I discovered so much about women and the vast range of enterprises they set up. It is the nuts and bolts, the motivations, the blood, sweat and tears.

Who was your favourite lecturer and why?

Annick Hogg. She turned Multinational Business into a political awakening. Great!

What's your greatest achievement?

Apart from my book? Winning the England Netball Under 15 tournament.

What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

Don't tread so lightly.

What last made you laugh?

Ugly Betty – Mark's face when Wilhelmina came into the room behind him and he said, "She's here, isn't she?"

What's your ideal weekend?

Having a late breakfast and going for a country walk. Not working.

Tell us something we would never guess about you.

I was in Manhattan on 9/11.

You are to live out your final days on a desert island…

Who would you take with you any why? The spirit of Anita Roddick. I'd learn a lot from her and she would know how to build a shelter.
What book would you take and why? Difficult one. Probably His Dark Materials Trilogy by Philip Pullman (could I have all three?). I would see something different in it every time I read it.
What movie would you take and why? The Graduate. Innocence, naughtiness and Dustin Hoffman rolled into one.
What food item would you take and why? Brazil nuts, I've read they are good for you.