Farvez Noufal Periya Rowther Raheem

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it? 
I chose to pursue an MBA to build on my strong foundation in analytics and business strategy, aiming to accelerate my career growth and broaden my global business perspective. Leeds University Business School stood out for its emphasis on research-driven learning and its globally recognized reputation. The comprehensive MBA curriculum at Leeds, spanning operations, finance, marketing, and leadership, aligned perfectly with my career aspirations to excel in strategic business roles. 

What inspired me about Leeds was its innovative approach to education and access to leading industry experts who bring real-world insights into the classroom. My prior experience in driving sales growth, developing predictive models, and implementing data-driven decisions in retail and e-commerce provided me with a clear vision of how this degree would refine my capabilities. Additionally, the resources at Leeds, including workshops, career coaching, and networking opportunities, made it the ideal place to gain a well-rounded business education. 

The focus on leadership development and cross-disciplinary collaboration at Leeds resonates with my goals of making impactful contributions to business development and operational excellence. I am eager to leverage this learning environment to refine my skills and gain international exposure, which is essential for thriving in today’s globalised economy. 

What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most about your course?  
The best part of my studies has been the dynamic and collaborative learning environment. The diverse cohort of peers from various industries and cultural backgrounds has been incredibly enriching, offering unique perspectives and fostering an atmosphere of innovation and creativity. The supportive and approachable faculty, who bring a wealth of real-world experience, have been instrumental in deepening my understanding of complex business challenges. 

I particularly enjoyed the course content, which seamlessly blends theory with practical applications. Modules like marketing, decision-making, and global operations resonated deeply with my professional background, allowing me to connect academic learning with my prior experiences in analytics and business strategy. The state-of-the-art facilities, including the library and dedicated study spaces, provided the perfect setting for collaboration and focused learning. 

Moreover, the career development resources, including workshops and one-on-one coaching, have been invaluable in refining my career trajectory. The emphasis on global exposure and cross-disciplinary projects added an exciting dimension to the course, making it not just an academic pursuit but a transformative personal and professional journey. 

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? 
My experience with the student union, the city of Leeds, and Yorkshire has been nothing short of exceptional. The Leeds University Union is vibrant and inclusive, offering a wide array of clubs, societies, and events that cater to diverse interests. It provided a fantastic platform to meet like-minded individuals and engage in activities beyond academics, making my time at university holistic and fulfilling. 

The city of Leeds itself is a dynamic blend of modernity and tradition, offering everything from bustling markets and vibrant nightlife to serene parks and historical landmarks. Its multicultural community and friendly atmosphere made it easy to adapt and feel at home. Yorkshire, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offered countless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Weekend trips to the Yorkshire Dales and historic sites like York added a wonderful balance to my intense academic schedule. 

I participated in extracurricular activities, including networking events and workshops organised by LUU and the Business School. These opportunities helped me develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills while building meaningful relationships. Volunteering in community projects for fundraising to help people access food/medicine/shelter/clothes further enriched my experience and allowed me to give back to the local community. 

To future students, I would recommend taking full advantage of the resources available, including the career services, workshops, and diverse student societies. Embrace the chance to network, explore the city, and engage with people from different cultures. Leeds and Yorkshire have so much to offer—academically, socially, and culturally. Immersing yourself in this vibrant environment will undoubtedly enhance both your personal and professional development. 

How did your experiences at Leeds University Business School help you to advance your career? 
My experiences at Leeds University Business School have been instrumental in advancing my career by equipping me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in strategic business roles. The rigorous and diverse curriculum helped me deepen my expertise in critical areas such as leadership, strategic decision-making, and data-driven analytics, which align perfectly with my professional aspirations. 

The real-world focus of the program, facilitated by faculty with industry experience, allowed me to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios. This approach honed my problem-solving abilities and prepared me for complex challenges in a global business environment. Additionally, collaborative projects with peers from diverse backgrounds enhanced my ability to work effectively in multicultural teams, a skill that is invaluable in today’s interconnected world. 

Workshops, guest lectures, and networking events organised by the Business School provided opportunities to connect with industry leaders and alumni, broadening my professional network and offering insights into emerging business trends. Career development resources, such as personalised coaching and mock interviews, helped me refine my professional brand and better align my career trajectory with my long-term goals. 

These experiences have not only strengthened my technical and leadership skills but also boosted my confidence to take on more strategic and impactful roles. Studying here has been a transformative experience, preparing me to contribute meaningfully to my field and achieve my career aspirations. 

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights? 
Since my studies, I’ve seen tremendous progress in my career development, culminating in securing a role as a Senior Analytics Consultant after completing my dissertation. Although I am yet to start this exciting new position, the journey to achieving it has been deeply influenced by the skills, knowledge, and confidence I gained during my MBA. 

The rigorous curriculum and real-world focus of the program prepared me to navigate the demands of this upcoming role, particularly in areas like advanced analytics, strategic decision-making, and client engagement. Working on collaborative projects with peers from diverse backgrounds further refined my teamwork and problem-solving skills, which I’m eager to bring into this new phase of my career. 

Securing this role before graduation has been a significant milestone, showcasing the value of my MBA experience and the strong support network at Leeds. I look forward to leveraging the lessons learned to deliver impactful solutions and advance my professional journey in this new capacity. 

What are your ambitions for the future?
My ambitions center around becoming a strategic leader in the field of analytics and business intelligence. I aim to use data-driven insights to solve complex challenges and drive impactful decision-making across organisations. In my upcoming role as a Senior Analytics Consultant, I plan to further develop my expertise in predictive modeling, business strategy, and client engagement, while building a track record of delivering measurable value. 

Long term, I aspire to take on leadership roles where I can influence organisational strategy, foster innovation, and mentor emerging talent in the analytics space. Additionally, I aim to contribute to the broader industry by sharing knowledge and participating in initiatives that promote the use of data analytics for social and business impact. 

Leeds University Business School has provided me with the foundation to think globally, act strategically, and adapt to dynamic business environments. My ambition is to continue growing as a professional and eventually make meaningful contributions to the field, driving transformation and progress through analytics and strategic leadership. 

What advice would you give to anyone looking to work in a similar role or industry to you? 
My advice would be to develop a strong foundation in both technical and business skills. Mastering tools like Python, SQL, and business intelligence platforms such as Power BI or Tableau is essential for success. At the same time, understanding how to translate data insights into actionable business strategies is equally important. 

Invest time in building expertise in key areas like data visualisation, predictive modeling, and problem-solving frameworks. Stay curious and keep up with emerging trends in analytics, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, to remain competitive in the field. 

Equally important is developing soft skills like communication, teamwork, and stakeholder management. Analytics is not just about numbers—it’s about telling a story with data that can influence decisions. Building the ability to convey complex insights in a clear and impactful way will set you apart. 

Networking is another critical factor. Engage with professionals in the industry, attend webinars, and join relevant communities to learn from others’ experiences. Internships, certifications, or short-term projects can also provide hands-on exposure and validate your skills. 

Finally, be persistent and open to learning. The field of analytics is vast, and challenges are inevitable, but each one is an opportunity to grow. Focus on building a portfolio of work that demonstrates your problem-solving ability and your impact on business outcomes—it’s one of the best ways to stand out in this competitive industry. 

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 both exciting and challenging. Moving to the UK and adapting to a new culture, academic environment, and way of life was a transformative experience. Leeds University Business School and the University as a whole provided excellent support, making the transition smoother than I had anticipated. 

From the moment I arrived, the International Welcome Team and orientation programs were invaluable. They offered guidance on settling in, understanding the academic system, and navigating the city. Workshops on cultural adjustment and academic writing were particularly helpful, as they addressed the unique challenges of studying in a global classroom. The student union and international societies also created a welcoming environment, offering events and activities that helped me connect with other students and make new friends. 

The University’s career services were another highlight, providing resources for tailoring my CV, preparing for interviews, and connecting with potential employers. Additionally, the library and online learning platforms were excellent for accessing resources anytime, supporting my academic success. 

My advice for anyone making a similar transition is to be open-minded and proactive. Embrace the diversity and learn from the experiences of others. Take advantage of all the support services the University offers—they are designed to help you succeed. Also, explore the local culture and build a routine that balances academic and personal growth. Finally, don’t hesitate to ask for help—whether from the University, peers, or local community. It’s a journey of growth, and with the right mindset, it can be incredibly rewarding. 

What would you say is your defining memory of studying here? Would you recommend the Business School to others? 
One of my most memorable experiences was during the Leading in Practice module, where I worked on a consulting project for Opera North. Our team collaborated with them to develop a machine learning-based large language model for text analytics, addressing specific challenges in their operations. The project was an incredible opportunity to apply cutting-edge technology to a real-world scenario while contributing to the arts community. 

As a token of appreciation, Opera North generously offered me a front-row seat ticket to one of their AI conferences. This gesture was not only heartwarming but also a testament to the value they found in our work. Sitting in the front row and witnessing the amazing conference with tech leaders of UK was an unforgettable experience and a proud moment of realizing the impact of our efforts. 

This project highlighted the unique opportunities available at Leeds University Business School to engage in meaningful, real-world applications of classroom learning. It also reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation, and stepping outside one’s comfort zone. For anyone considering the Business School, opportunities like this exemplify the enriching and transformative experiences that await. 

What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time in Leeds? 
My advice is to embrace every opportunity that comes your way and approach your experience with curiosity and openness. Leeds offers a rich blend of academic, social, and cultural experiences, and leveraging them will make your time here truly transformative. 

Leeds is not just a place to study but a place to grow, explore, and prepare for your future. Make the most of every opportunity, and you’ll leave with more than just a degree—you’ll have a lifetime of memories, skills, and connections.