Koray Alper Akdemir

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it?
When I was awarded the Jean Monnet Scholarship, I gained a unique opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in Europe, specifically in the UK. Recognising the prominence of British universities in the social sciences, I focused my research on Russell Group universities, confident that their academic excellence and reputation aligned perfectly with my career aspirations.

During this process, I received offers from several prestigious Russell Group universities. However, the University of Leeds stood out for the exceptional opportunities it offers and the professionalism it demonstrated throughout the application process. The prompt, effective, and supportive assistance I received reflected how much the University values its students. These factors, combined with its strong academic reputation and outstanding resources, made Leeds University Business School the ideal choice for my studies.

I chose the Human Resource Management (HRM) course because it aligned perfectly with my professional background in employment services. With over a decade of experience at the Turkish Employment Agency, where I contributed to modernising public employment services and leading innovative projects such as Virtual Employment Fairs and the AI-based Job Matching System, I was eager to deepen my understanding of HRM from both public and private sector perspectives. The HRM programme at Leeds, accredited by the CIPD, offered the perfect combination of academic excellence and practical application to help me achieve this goal.

The programme’s curriculum, particularly the modules on Employment Law and Employment Relations, stood out to me as they directly related to my interest in labour market dynamics and the delivery of employment services. These modules provided invaluable insights into the British labour market, which is among the most liberalised in Europe, and allowed me to compare it with my experiences in Türkiye.

What did you enjoy the most about your course – what were your course highlights? For example, the facilities, staff, peers, course content etc.
I believe that the best part of my studies was the programme’s emphasis on critically interpreting and applying knowledge. I valued the learning approach that actively encouraged us to engage with different perspectives and develop our own ideas. The resources we received reflected current global developments and were particularly engaging. Furthermore, the academics were open to all viewpoints and provided alternative perspectives to challenge and refine our thinking, which I found incredibly valuable. This made the post-lecture seminars an excellent opportunity to deepen my understanding and exchange ideas with peers and lecturers.

Working on my dissertation was an exceptionally rewarding experience. Conducting interviews with leading experts in the employment field and engaging deeply with my research topic proved both challenging and inspiring. Moreover, witnessing my work evolve into a rigorous and impactful study was deeply fulfilling. Throughout this process, I greatly benefited from my supervisor’s continuous support, encouragement, and invaluable insights, which significantly enhanced the quality and depth of my research.

What did you enjoy most about your life as a student at the University of Leeds? Did you get involved in any activities outside of your studies that had an impact on your experience here, or your personal development?The University offered a wide range of social opportunities, with clubs and societies catering to a broad spectrum of interests. I participated in various activities, from photography and coffee tasting to hiking and environmental volunteering, all of which greatly enriched my university experience.

The lecturers and professors were exceptionally approachable and enthusiastic in sharing their knowledge, which I found truly inspiring. My fellow students came from diverse international backgrounds, and their genuine respect for others, along with the meaningful friendships I formed, made my journey even more special.

Living in a vibrant city like Leeds made the experience even more enjoyable. I often visited my favourite areas, such as Headingley and Leeds Dock, which added to the city’s charm. The central location of Leeds also made it an excellent base for exploring other cities, perfectly suiting my curiosity to discover new places. The Yorkshire region, with its stunning landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, was another highlight I thoroughly enjoyed.

We also formed a group of PhD and master’s students with whom I shared many enjoyable activities. During semester breaks, especially after exams, we organised gatherings such as movie nights and football matches. These experiences were invaluable in relieving stress and building lasting friendships, making them some of the most memorable moments outside my studies.

How did you find adjusting to living and studying in the UK? Did the university offer support or services that you found helpful? Can you offer any advice?
From day one Leeds truly felt like home—a vibrant city, a supportive academic community, and countless inspiring individuals who encouraged and empowered me throughout this journey. The University offers numerous social activities from the very beginning to help students build friendships and ease the transition.

What impressed me most, however, was the University’s strong commitment to student wellbeing. When I initially struggled to adjust to my private accommodation, the University’s Report and Support Team dedicated themselves to offering practical solutions and guidance, which gave me a genuine sense of relief.

No matter what challenge you face, there are dedicated experts ready to help you make the most of student life. These services did more than simply resolve issues—they strengthened my bond with the University and fostered a real sense of belonging. Knowing that my concerns were heard and addressed made me feel valued not just as a student, but as a true member of the University community.

My advice would be to feel free to share any struggles with the relevant University staff—there will always be someone ready to listen and support you.

What professional skills and experience did you gain during your time at Leeds University Business School? What support did you get to help to develop these skills, and with your overall career and employability?
During my studies, I was elected as the 2023–2024 course representative for the MA Human Resource Management programme and was selected to participate in the Leeds Virtual Industry Programme as a Project Manager, as well as the TBS Educational International Seminar on European Business Perspectives. Through these roles, I consistently embraced responsibility and contributed meaningfully to the academic community, while further developing my leadership, organisational, and communication skills.

Moreover, my dissertation provided the ideal platform to pursue my career aspirations. The participants in my research included senior figures within the Department for Work and Pensions, as well as experts from employment institutions and academia. This collaboration provided me with in-depth knowledge and access to a valuable professional network. Under the guidance of Professor Jonathan Winterton—who both introduced me to relevant academics and monitored my progress weekly—I benefited from continuous encouragement and invaluable insights that enhanced the quality of my research.

Overall, the skills I developed—leadership, critical thinking, analytical research, and the ability to approach challenges from multiple perspectives—are directly transferable to my professional career. In particular, working closely with experienced academics and building a strong professional network has strengthened my capacity to conduct effective interviews, deliver impactful projects, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

How did your time at Leeds prepare you for the future?
As someone who had previously experienced a different education system, studying at the University of Leeds allowed me to understand the expectations of a more systematic and structured approach to postgraduate education. The detailed feedback I received on my academic work was invaluable in refining my performance. By actively engaging in classes and receiving both verbal and written feedback on coursework and assessments, I developed the confidence and resilience to face future challenges.

My master’s dissertation, “Quasi-Marketised Employment Services in the UK and Recommendations for Türkiye”, examined the evolution of employment programmes in the UK, assessing their advantages and limitations within the labour market. It also incorporated qualitative research through ten semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. This collaboration contributed to the success of my dissertation, which was awarded an exceptional grade, and directly informed the development of my PhD proposal, reinforcing the importance of further research in this field.

In addition, this experience significantly strengthened my expertise in qualitative research methods, including the planning and execution of interviews, engaging a diverse range of participants, and conducting rigorous analysis. These skills provide a strong foundation for my doctoral research and complement my extensive professional experience in public employment services.

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights
After my graduation, I returned to my position in Türkiye as an Employment Expert; however, I remained committed to continuing my career in the UK. Since then, I have received multiple job offers from the Civil Service as well as PhD offers from several Russell Group universities.

Following a highly competitive selection process, I am deeply honoured to have been awarded the LUBS PhD Excellence Scholarship, where I was ranked as the top applicant within the Department of People, Work and Employment. When the University of Leeds awarded me with this opportunity, I stopped searching for alternatives, and I am now looking forward to combining my academic achievements and professional experience to generate impactful insights for the future of employment services.

What are your ambitions for the future?
Although I have dedicated a significant part of my professional career to delivering public employment services in various senior roles, I consider my academic contributions to be the most fulfilling aspect of my professional journey. 

My PhD research, “Deploying AI in Quasi-Marketised Employment Services: Exploring Opportunities and Challenges”, builds on both my academic foundation and extensive professional experience in labour market policy. It aims to generate practical, evidence-based recommendations for future implementation, and I am more motivated than ever to contribute to this under-researched yet increasingly significant field.

My immediate objective is to honour the trust placed in me by conducting rigorous and impactful research, representing the University with distinction through publications and academic engagement. Ultimately, I aspire to become a permanent and active member of this scholarly community, contributing meaningfully to its academic growth and reputation.

What was your biggest highlight of studying at Leeds? (For example, friendships made, confidence in your abilities, or any single event that you will always remember)
Apart from my academic achievements, my defining memory of studying at Leeds was attending the TBS Educational International Seminar on European Business Perspectives, organised by Leeds University Business School in Toulouse, France. It was an unforgettable experience, providing valuable insights from diverse perspectives and enriching me culturally.

Held during the mid-term break, the seminar also gave me the chance to explore nearby cities before and after the programme. A particular highlight was visiting Barcelona, thanks to its proximity to Toulouse, which added even more to this remarkable experience.

Would you recommend the University of Leeds and the Business School to others? What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time in Leeds?
I truly believe that studying at the University of Leeds is a privilege and an experience that will always hold a special place in my heart. This is why I aspire to further my studies with a PhD at this University. The opportunities it provides, the approachable and supportive nature of its academic staff, and its peaceful, encouraging study environment have all reinforced my confidence in choosing to study here. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Business School to anyone considering it, as it offers a wide range of opportunities to support diverse career paths.