Kanaka Sriram

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it? 
I chose this degree because it combined my love for business management with my curiosity about new technology. The curriculum was all about that sweet spot where business and digital technology meet, which felt super relevant and exciting to me. It really helped me understand how tech is shaping the future and how to bring it into businesses today. I’m so passionate about business management, and this course gave me the tools to keep up with what’s actually driving the business world forward right now.

What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most about your course? For example, the facilities, staff, peers, course content etc.
The best part of my studies was the variety of topics we explored. One standout for me was the module on Human-Centered AI. It was such a fascinating subject, learning how to strike the right balance between humans and AI in a way that felt practical and forward-thinking. I also loved the guest speaker sessions as not only were they super interesting but also turned into lasting connections I still value. And honestly, the professors made a huge difference. They weren’t just teachers but mentors I could go to for advice, which was such a help throughout the course. 

What was your impression/experience of the student union, the city of Leeds and Yorkshire? Did you do any extracurricular activities during your studies? How did you enhance your personal development? What would you recommend to future students? 
I absolutely love the city of Leeds- it had everything I could possibly ask for. It’s such a vibrant place and even in the middle of winter when we all need that extra boost for our mental health, the city kept us going with so much to do and explore. Another big plus is how easy it is to travel from here; it’s close to major cities, so getting around was super convenient. And the people of Yorkshire are some of the sweetest, warmest people I’ve ever met. 

Outside of studies, I made good use of the University gym, The Edge. They had a great variety of classes, which made it easy to keep things fun and stay healthy. For personal development, I tried to make the most of everything- networking, exploring, staying active. My advice to future students would be to dive into everything Leeds has to offer and not shy away from trying new things. It’s a city and a university experience that really lets you grow. 

How did your experiences at Leeds University Business School help you to advance your career? 
The job I have today is a direct result of a connection I made during one of the events hosted by the Business School. They do an incredible job of exposing students to well-known businesses and industry leaders, which creates amazing opportunities to network and learn. 

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights? 
Since leaving the Business School, I’ve been working in a role where I’ve been able to put everything I learned during my degree into practice. The course curriculum was incredibly relevant, and it’s been so rewarding to see how well it translates to real-world scenarios in my current job. The practical application of my learnings has been massive, and it’s given me the confidence and skills to excel in my role.

What are your ambitions for the future? 
To progress further in the space of Digital Tech and its intersection with Business and hopefully, one day start my own company.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to work in a similar role or industry to you? 
My advice is to stay curious and open to learning- it’s such a fast-paced field, especially with how technology is shaping business. Build a strong foundation of skills but also focus on networking. The connections you make, whether through university events or industry meetups, can open doors you didn’t even know existed. 

Don’t shy away from challenges or stepping out of your comfort zone as that’s where the real growth happens. Lastly, always look for ways to apply what you’ve learned in creative and impactful ways. Employers value people who can bridge the gap between knowledge and action.

How was the transition to living and studying in a different country? Did the university offer support or services that you found helpful? Can you offer any advice? 
The transition to living and studying in a different country was definitely a mix of excitement and challenges, but overall, it was such a rewarding experience. Leeds University offered amazing support that made the process much smoother.  

My advice to anyone making this transition would be to embrace the experience fully. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it- universities like Leeds have so many resources, but you have to take that first step. Take time to explore your new surroundings, make friends, and get involved in activities. It’s a great way to feel more at home while also building a network. Most importantly, give yourself time to adjust-it’s okay to feel out of your comfort zone initially. That’s where the growth happens! 

What is your defining memory of studying here? Would you recommend the Business School to others? 
Definitely the friendships I made here. If you’d asked me a year ago when I first arrived, I would’ve never guessed I’d feel so at home. The people I met became like family, and those connections are something I’ll cherish forever. 

Beyond that, my time at the Business School helped me discover more about myself. I’ve grown so much personally and I feel like I truly know who I am today, and that’s been such a huge part of my journey. 

I’d absolutely recommend the Business School to others. It’s not just about the academic side if things (which are great!); it’s the overall experience- growing as a person, making lifelong connections, and preparing for the future in a way that feels meaningful and impactful.

What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time in Leeds? 
Make the most of everything Leeds has to offer- it’s such an incredible city with so much happening all year round. Explore the city and its surroundings, from the vibrant culture to the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, because it really adds to your experience. 

Get involved in as much as you can. Join societies, attend events, and don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone. The connections you make and the skills you develop outside of class can be just as valuable as your studies.