Lingya Zhou

How did you hear about Leeds University Business School and why did you choose to study here?
I joined the 2+2 program at Shanghai Sino-British College (SBC) in China in 2012. The University of Leeds is a partnership university of SBC. The high reputation and rank of Leeds University Business School attracted me to apply. Leeds, as the cultural, financial and commercial heart of Yorkshire was also attractive. Studying in Leeds gives me the opportunity to discover myself while gaining an understanding of a different culture. Being in a new country by yourself can also be overwhelming at times and it tests my ability to adapt to diverse situations, while being able to solve problems at the same time. 

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 international trade is relevant to my family business. I want to develop our family business and make it more successful. In the future, I will start my own foreign trade business. Therefore, BSc International Business allows me to lay a sound theoretical foundation. The programme also has a really high rank in both the UK and the world. 

What has been the best part of your studies – what have you enjoyed the most?  
The best part of studying International Business is that I can gain ideas and various views from other professionals all over the world. I also joined in the summer school program in Germany, which helped me to develop the skills of adjusting to a new culture, new language and new surroundings.  

What are your career aspirations? Do you think the experience and skills you’ve gained here so far have helped you in your career plans? In what way?
My career aspiration is to make my family business become stronger and more global.  I have developed many professional skills while at the Business School, such as communication, leadership and time management. I have also received endless support and training from the Careers Centre, which has helped me to adapt to the work environment quickly. Furthermore, the experience of studying abroad also helped me to understand the European market. This is very important for me if I am to make our family business enter the European market.  

How has your career progressed since joining the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?
The Business School collaborates with many companies, which provides a chance for students to communicate with industry professionals. Job fairs are regularly organised by the Business School and through joining these fairs, I have been in contact with local organisations. I am now working for my father’s company in foreign trade sales.

If you are not from the UK, how was the transition to a foreign country? Did the University offer support or services that you found helpful? Can you offer any advice?
The support and services within the University are very helpful. There’s a Global Café on campus which is open each week and is a good opportunity to make friends in the UK. My personal tutor is also helpful when confronting personal or academic issues. Furthermore, the University has the most perfect equipment, such as The Edge gym and 24 hour computer clusters. The City of Leeds is also very modern and is constantly developing. The city centre is a good place for entertainment after classes. 

Are there any experiences outside of your studies that you have particularly enjoyed? e.g. participation in extra-curricular activities or groups, nightlife, the region’s historic places of interest.
The transportation in Leeds is very convenient, I really enjoy the time spent traveling around. The University also organises day trips for students, which is a good start when exploring Leeds. I have enjoyed the activities that were organised in the Global Café. It provided us with a chance to make friends within the University.