Sophie Feechan

Why did you choose Leeds University Business School? 

I always dreamed of going to a Russel Group University and after completing my BTEC in Business and Events Management, I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in Business Management. After seeing how highly Leeds ranked, I attended various open days.  

What stood out to me the most about Leeds University Business School was the wide range of opportunities available to its students. I was keen to be involved in extra-curricular activities during my studies. 

What do you enjoy most about your studies? 

I enjoy the variety of modules on my course. As Business Management is so broad, I get insight into a range of topics widening my understanding and knowledge.  

Students at Leeds can also choose optional and discovery modules, which means you can choose modules from across the University to study as part of your course. I chose to study Italian in both my first and second year as I have family in Italy and hope to continue learning the language in my final year. 

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

I have taken up many of the opportunities available to me at the Business School. During my first year I applied to be a Student Ambassador, representing Leeds Business School with activities like open days and virtual events.  

This year I’m a PASS (Peer Assisted Study Scheme) Leader. I mentor first year students on a fortnightly basis providing advice and guidance on both academic and non-academic issues. I am also a mentee this year on the Nurturing Talent Mentor Scheme, this is an opportunity to have a personal mentor with an industry professional. 

Outside of the Business School, I am an active member of the Leeds University Ballet Society. I attend three classes per week and dance on the Advanced Competition Team representing the University.  

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

I was incredibly proud of achieving 90/100 in my Accounting for Managers assignment in my first year. Although I found this module challenging as I had only touched upon the topic previously in my studies, my hard work paid off and I achieved an overall module mark of a first. 

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

Although my first year was mostly virtual, I was still able to use all the campus libraries, Edward Boyle being my favourite. Since starting second year, I am now able to use all the facilities and they continue to amaze me. At the moment, my favourite place to study is the Esther Simpson building, I can sit in there all day, it’s such a relaxing place. 

I always feel very supported by all my lecturers and I find they make adjustments for me if necessary. The staff I reach out to at Leeds University Union are also very supportive. Whilst I haven’t needed to use all the services the University provides, I know there is a range of help available and it's easy to find. 

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

As soon as I moved to Leeds, I felt safe and it felt like home. The city is always bustling and there is always something going on. I never get bored as there is always a café, bar or restaurant I haven’t visited yet.  

The city centre has such a variety of shops, I can always find what I’m looking for. My favourite place to go in Leeds would be Woodhouse Ridge or the Leeds Dock when I want to go for a walk with friends. 

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?

Since starting my studies at the Business School, I can’t begin to explain how much I have developed, both academically and on a personal level, and I am only halfway through my course.  

My career aspirations are varied. I am interested in working as a Business Consultant or working in business operations and management. As Business Management is so broad there are relevant modules which can be applied to both career routes. 

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

Yes, I would recommend Leeds University Business School to anyone interested in studying here. Not only is the University of Leeds a highly ranked, Russell Group University, the Business School is also triple accredited.  

Leeds is such a lovely place and there’s something for everyone here. There is such a wide range of opportunities available to all students depending on what their aspirations are. There are new, exciting facilities and schemes being implemented all the time at the University.