Siddha Maloo

How did you hear about Leeds University Business School and why did you choose to study here?
I always wanted to study abroad in a university or college of high repute and acquire a degree that is internationally recognised. Being a student from a commerce and finance background, I knew that the UK was the right place for me, but I had no idea about any colleges or universities there.

In the year 2011, during a vacation in Paris, I met a student from Leeds University who strongly recommended the Business School for my further studies. When I explored Leeds University Business School, I found that it was the place I longed for. I was very much inspired by the success stories of its alumni. Leeds University Business School is one of the top ranking institutions in the UK, having worldwide repute in the research field of international business.

I joined the MSc International Business because it is one of the most sought after courses and it will open many avenues for my professional as well as personal growth, be it industry or research work. Leeds attracts masses as it has always been a strategic centre of innovation and research, with great minds like Sir James Watt, Bragg and many more. Moreover, Leeds is a very lively place and it offers all of the necessary facilities for students, with excellent accommodation and modern amenities.

Tell us about your course – why did you choose it? What elements of the course inspired you to study here?
I realised that developing skills and having exposure in the field of international business would be the “icing on the cake” and would help me utilize my knowledge of finance. MSc International Business is a globally recognised course and covers a vast scope in the field of commerce and industry. I had specifically opted for the European Business module because I wanted to familiarise myself with knowledge regarding the conduct of business in the European Union. It gave me an insight into the economy of European countries. The Professional Development module instilled confidence in me and contributed a lot to my personal development. Studying the Emerging Markets module helped me frame a better picture of the overall world economy.

What has been the best part of your studies – what have you enjoyed the most?
The best part of studying here has been the global exposure that I have had, which is not available in my country. During the course of my studies here I have enhanced my knowledge of the history, cultures, ideologies, treaties, trading trends and business ethics of a number of countries. Studying on this global platform and enriching myself with cross-cultural experience has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

The group activities here bring students of different nationalities together despite our cultural differences. “Come Dine With Me” was the most enjoyable and exciting group activity in which everyone prepared and shared cuisines of their respective countries and described the food habits and culture to each other. It also helped me earn good friends.

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? 
I joined the course with the intention of acquiring knowledge and skills, as the field of international business offers a promising career. The experiences that I’ve had here have helped me to improve my employability skills, which has left me suitably positioned to serve in a reputed MNC in any corner of the world. Having achieved good marks in my assessments I am confident in getting a job after graduation as an analyst or consultant. However, while studying here I have realised that I have an affinity towards research. Therefore, now I have plans to pursue a Ph.D. from the University of Leeds.  

How has your career progressed since joining the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?
I’m pursuing an extra semester at Copenhagen Business School, Denmark under the Masters Beyond Borders scheme, which is sponsored by Leeds University Business School. Due to my extraordinary performance throughout the programme and my participation in the Masters Beyond Borders scheme, I have been selected as a Student Ambassador for the Business School. 

Studying here has been a gateway to success, as I will now be graduating with the title “M.Sc. in International Business (Study Abroad)”. The University has matched its mission of making “an exceptional impact on business and society globally through leadership in research and teaching”, and I have received more than what I had expected from attending this premier institution. Hence, studying at Leeds University Business School has been the turning point in my life and every day I find new doors opening for me and new challenges awaiting me.

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?
I absolutely had no problem in coming to a foreign country because I had traveled abroad many times. Secondly, English has been the medium of my education in India, therefore I did not face any language problems. What I found most interesting was the fact that whatever I learnt in India theoretically, I got to experience practically in Leeds. The Western culture has always influenced the Indian youth to a great extent. Although the British education system is totally different from the Indian system, it took no time for me to become accustomed to it.

Every student is assigned a personal tutor for general guidance here, which is not the case in India. The University offers full support in all respects. All the members of staff here are very caring, dedicated and courteous. Sincere teaching and learning takes place here. For my day to day correspondence with Copenhagen Business School, one dedicated member of staff has been appointed by the University to help me out. I am overwhelmed by the warmth given and care taken by Leeds University Business School for each student coming here.

What has been your experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the city of Leeds and the Yorkshire region?
Leeds University Business School is equipped with the best of everything. All of the professors here are great intellectuals and are masters in their subjects. Studying and working under their guidance is a privilege. The classrooms are well furnished and equipped, and every student gets the full attention they require. I have enjoyed the company of students of different nationalities because I've had the chance to learn about the cultural similarities and differences between us. All of them were very good to me and invited me to their parties and celebrations. The city of Leeds attracts everyone.

The University has a beautiful, sprawling, well-planned campus with lots of gardens, hundreds of trees and beautiful flower beds, the chirping of birds and tons of fresh air. Many of the buildings are of historical importance and their details are mentioned on their outer walls for passersby to read. The campus includes the historic textile mill, Parkinson building, the Maurice Keyworth (Business School) building and many more historic structures.

The city has a perfect blend of history, science, commerce, business, sports, nature and modernisation. The Golden Owls, the magnificent Corn Exchangeand the gothic city centre are the landmarks of Leeds. Headingley Stadium marks Leeds on the world map. Leeds is a shoppers’ paradise with attractions ranging from Trinity Leeds to the iconic Kirkgate Market, which is the largest indoor market in Europe. Big brands like Marks & Spencer, Tetley’s, and Burton evolved from this city. The Yorkshire region is one of the oldest historical regions in UK and a known tourist destination.

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.
Yes, such experiences are many. I had the opportunity to become involved in the “Make In India” seminar event at Leeds University Business School, which helped me to network and interact with the High Commissioner of India in London, Consulate General of India, and a number of dignitaries and industrialists. They spared their valuable time in talking to me and in encouraging me. I was thrilled to see the Mayor of Leeds to be the Chief Guest in one of the functions organised by the University. I had a conversation with the Mayor and he was so impressed that he gifted me with the badge of “Golden Owl” as a token of remembrance.

I attended the Leeds Nightlight Festival and the Leeds Food Festival in which I familiarised myself with British culture in particular, and other European countries in general. I even got an opportunity to attend a number of career fairs where I directly communicated with employers. The Business School organised a number of events for the general awareness of students. It also organised a one-day Management Consultant Training Programme specifically to groom us for working in a professional environment. The Christmas party organised by the Business School truly reflected the British customs and traditions. I have also visited Liverpool, York and Stratford upon Avon with my foreign friends.

Would you recommend the Business School to others who are considering studying here?
Yes, I recommend more and more students to come to Leeds University Business School. I have undergone a total transformation after studying here. The institution will bestow upon you more than what you expect. I treasure every moment spent here and the nostalgia will forever linger in my memory. Leeds University Business School has inculcated a great amount of confidence in me and now I am ready to face challenges and make my place in the world.