Maya Spencer-Jacobs

Why did you choose Leeds University Business School? 

Leeds University Business School offered a really interesting Economics course with flexible options such as the opportunity to do a placement or study abroad year which you can decide to take up once you have started the course.  

Normally Economics isn't offered within a Business School so you don't get access to their resources and opportunities, so Leeds was unique to me because of this. 

What do you enjoy most about your studies? 

The flexibility to take discovery modules and explore subjects outside your degree discipline is incredibly useful. I took a computer science route with my discovery modules and was fortunate to access programming modules covering python and web development which then helped me with my Economics studies when analysing datasets. 

Have you taken up any of the extra opportunities available to you? 

I was a course representative in my first year which was a great way to meet people on my course as well as develop a professional relationship with the Business School academic programme team. Using feedback from students we helped shape the future of the course for new students.  

I was also a PASS mentor, where I helped first year students navigate through the new experience of university and helped them with Economics questions. 

Do you have any noteworthy achievements from your study at the Business School that you can tell us about? 

I was President of Women in Leadership Society in my second year. This is a fantastic society aiming to dismantle barriers and promote females into leadership roles. 

This was a really rewarding experience where I led and worked with 12 likeminded committee members to host several social events, academic events and conferences. We won three society awards for our collaboration and mentor scheme efforts. 

How has your experience been with the facilities, the staff, your peers and the student union? 

Leeds University Union is a great space as there's always stuff going on and great spots to grab food or places to work. We're really lucky at Leeds to have such an active student union and a great executive team of students supporting us behind it. The staff are always happy to help, and if they can't, they can direct you to the right place.  

What do you think of Leeds and the surrounding region? Where is your favourite place to go in the area? 

I love Leeds. When I first visited on the open day it reminded me of a mini (cheaper) London. There's so many little cafes and great shops which are easy to access either walking or via public transport. My favourite place to run through is Roundhay Park, which is a bit further out from the city, to see some of the green spaces. 

What are your career aspirations? Do you think the experience and skills you will gain from your degree course will help you in your future career plans?

This summer I completed an 8-week summer internship within the Technology division at Schroders, which enabled me to gain first-hand insight into software engineering. I am excited to return there when I graduate later this year. The University of Leeds definitely has a great reputation with employers which gives you an advantage when applying to competitive jobs. 

Would you recommend the Business School to others who are considering studying here? 

Leeds University Business School is a really great place to study and four years later, I can't have imagined myself studying anywhere else. It's easy to see why it's so highly ranked as there are so many opportunities and resources available to you, and the standard of education is fantastic.