Karkala Priya Kamath

Everyone spoke highly of Leeds University Business School 

I first learned about Leeds University Business School (LUBS) through positive feedback from previous students, who spoke highly of the quality of education and the supportive environment. This motivated me to conduct further research, and I was particularly impressed by the school’s strong global reputation, consistently ranked among the top business schools in the world. The course feedback for MSc Business Analytics and Decision Sciences confirmed to me that LUBS would be the ideal place to pursue my Master’s degree.  

Leeds is an ideal home for students 

The blend of practical and theoretical learning, combined with the school’s global outlook and strong industry connections, made it an obvious choice for me. The vibrant student culture, diverse community and easy access to both the lively city centre and the nearby Yorkshire countryside make it an appealing place to study and relax. Leeds offers the perfect balance of a bustling urban environment and a peaceful, scenic escape, making it an ideal home for any student. 

The course offered a unique combination of data-driven analysis and strategic decision-making 

As businesses increasingly rely on data to make informed choices, I knew this course would equip me with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving field. The broad range of modules, covering topics like data transformation and visualisation, machine learning and predictive analytics immediately caught my attention as they offered a solid technical foundation and an understanding of their application in real-world business scenarios.  

Industry connections and hands-on experience 

One of the key reasons I chose this course was its balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The opportunity to work on real-life case studies and projects, combined with access to industry-standard software, allowed me to apply what I learnt in a practical context. The School’s strong connections with industry also offered the potential for collaborative projects or a company-based dissertation, providing invaluable hands-on experience. 

A collaborative and hands-on learning environment.  

My course emphasised practical application through seminars and coursework, which allowed me to engage deeply with the course material. Working with real-world data and case studies has been particularly rewarding, as it enabled me to apply theoretical concepts to actual business scenarios, enhancing my understanding and problem-solving skills. The interactive teaching style, combined with state-of-the-art resources, fosters an environment where innovation and critical thinking are encouraged. Additionally, the opportunity to engage with professionals from various industries through guest lectures and workshops provided valuable insights into how analytics is applied in the real world. Overall, the dynamic learning environment at Leeds has been instrumental in preparing me for a career in business analytics.

Exceptional support 

The University provided exceptional support to help me settle in, ensuring a smooth transition into both academic life and the vibrant student community. From the moment I arrived, the University offered a comprehensive induction program specifically tailored for international students. This included campus tours, orientation events, and workshops on everything from academic expectations to life in Leeds, which helped me quickly get acquainted with my new environment. The Business School also offers a dedicated student support team, providing guidance on both academic and personal matters. Throughout my MSc in Business Analytics and Decision Sciences, I’ve had access to personal tutors and academic advisors who are always available for one-on-one meetings to discuss coursework, career advice, or any challenges I’ve faced. Additionally, the University’s support services are extensive, with resources ranging from student support to mental health and wellbeing services. The University’s Careers Centre has been especially valuable, offering tailored career advice, CV reviews and opportunities to connect with industry professionals. 

Looking to the future 

My career aspiration is to become a business analyst or BI analyst, where I can leverage data to drive decision-making and strategic growth for organizations. I’m particularly excited about working in dynamic environments where I can solve complex business problems using data-driven insights. I aim to work across various industries, helping companies optimize their operations, forecast trends and make informed decisions.  Leeds University Business School has been instrumental in preparing me for this path, both academically and professionally. The University’s careers team has also been incredibly supportive. Through workshops, one-on-one career consultations, and industry events, I’ve gained valuable insights into how to navigate the job market. Additionally, networking opportunities with industry professionals and guest lectures have broadened my understanding of the business analytics landscape, helping me to refine my career goals and build connections for future opportunities. 

Leeds created an environment that fostered a sense of belonging  

When moving to the UK, the Leeds provided invaluable support through its dedicated International Student services, which facilitated a smooth transition. Prior to my arrival, I benefited from their comprehensive pre-departure guidance. They also organised webinars and Q&A sessions, allowing me to connect with current students and gain insights into life in Leeds. Upon arrival, the University’s welcome services were particularly helpful, providing a warm introduction to the campus. I appreciated the orientation sessions that covered academic expectations, study resources and student services. The campus was vibrant, and the international community made it easy to forge new friendships. Additionally, I found the support services, such as academic advising and mental health resources, to be readily accessible and responsive to my needs. The comprehensive support significantly enhanced my overall experience in the UK. 

Leeds goes above and beyond  

My experiences at Leeds University Business School have been overwhelmingly positive, marked by a blend of academic rigor and a supportive community. The curriculum is well-structured, offering a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical applications that have significantly enriched my learning experience. Professors are not only experts in their fields but also approachable and committed to student success, often going above and beyond to provide guidance and support.