Eleanor Conradie

How did you hear about Leeds University Business School and why did you choose to study here? 
I chose Leeds University Business School because of the excellent reputation of the course and the connections that the University has with local businesses. There are a wide variety of events to attend, from networking and career finding opportunities to workshops on application and test taking skills. There are also many societies to get involved with so it’s easy to get straight in to social things alongside learning on the course. Having completed my undergraduate degree here, and really enjoyed my time at Leeds, I was really pleased to return for my Masters degree. 

Tell us about your course – why did you choose it? What elements of the course inspired you to study here? 
I chose this course because the modules cover a broad range of topics. I was really attracted by some of the more creative modules such as entrepreneurship and enterprise creation. So far the course has helped me develop my design and critical thinking skills, and has taught me about effective planning and time management. It’s great to have fellow students with different backgrounds because they bring external knowledge and a different approach to management. 

What are the best things about your studies here – what are you enjoying the most? 
I am enjoying the breadth of topics covered in lectures, and the group work in our seminars. Although challenging, it is helping me gain experience of what team management will be like in a real business, and provided me with the skills and knowledge of how to lead a team effectively. 

What are your career aspirations? Do you have any plans for when you finish your Masters? How do you think the experience and skills you are getting at the Business School will help you in your future career? 
After completing my Masters degree, I’m considering two options: either finding a position in a graduate management scheme within a pharmaceutical company to gain broad experience, or establishing my own start-up venture. In both cases I expect the University’s Careers Centre service will provide valuable guidance and support. 

Do you have any noteworthy achievements from your studies that you can tell us about - eg prizes, highest scores etc?
I am really pleased to have been voted Student Representative for the MSc Management programme. This position involves gathering feedback from my peers about the course and liaising with Business School staff to try make improvements for current and future students. Along with my fellow course reps, I am also responsible for organising networking events, talks from business owners and social events for the students on the course.

What has been your experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the city of Leeds and the Yorkshire region? 
The facilities at the University are excellent, and the staff are always helpful. I love Leeds because it's a student city, where you are surrounded by like-minded people who get involved, and there are lots of opportunities for broadening your horizons because of the connections between the University of Leeds and other businesses. The Yorkshire Dales are only a short train ride away; it’s great for walking, to escape the bustle of the city and to relax. 

Are there any experiences outside of your studies that you particularly enjoy? 
I have always enjoyed participating in societies and love trying something new, so this year I have joined salsa dancing and squash societies. I have been part of LUUMS choir for the last 3 years, and have rejoined Wilderness Medicine. I’ve used the Social Enterprise Zone at the Leeds University Union to find an internship at The Conservation Volunteers in Kirkstall. I’m gaining valuable work experience as their Marketing Assistant, which will help me when I come to look at employment opportunities.

Would you recommend the Business School to others who are considering studying here?  
I would definitely recommend Leeds Business School. On my course there are students from many different backgrounds, with varying levels of business experience and from different academic disciplines, so we have interesting and novel approaches to problem solving in our assignments. This is a great way to expand our own experience, and provides opportunities to learn about other cultures both socially and about what differences there are in business practices in other countries. The modules cover a broad range of topics, and supports students in developing their ideas and business interests.