Harini Nagesh

How did you hear about the Business School and why did you choose to study here? 

I choose Leeds as it is ranked in the Top 100 Universities in the world (QS Rankings, 2022). The Business school has also been the alma matter of various famous economists and policy makers. 

Tell us about your course - why did you choose it?

I chose to pursue Economics abroad as very few institutions offer an MSc in Economics in other countries. Leeds is one of the few universities that offers a pluralistic approach to economic ideas. I was also inspired by the staff from the Economics department at the Business School. It’s a highly diverse department with professors and lecturers involved in decision making at various institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.  

What is the best part of your studies? 

The best part of my studies is the opportunity to engage with people from different nationalities and backgrounds. Engaging in clubs and societies has also helped me meet lots of individuals from different cultures.  

I’m also a Link to Leeds ambassador, where my job actively includes engaging with students from across the world; from making videos for social media, to conducting campus tours, I have been lucky to be part of all these activities. 

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

For my career aspirations, I want to find my place in the global financial sector. My study has helped me immensely in sharpening my research techniques and critical thinking. I understand the importance of transferrable skills and how they play a key role in securing a job as an international graduate in the UK. The University has also shaped me holistically as an individual. 

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

One of my most noteworthy achievements would be scoring highly in my Applied Econometrics paper. With the support of the faculty and my tutor I was able to adapt to the international curriculum and secure great scores.  

Apart from academics, I represent the Business School as an Ambassador. Securing this part-time job was a victory for me as I was able to represent the Economics department at various Business School events. 

How was the transition to a foreign country? Did the University offer support or services that you found helpful?

Being an international student, I was very overwhelmed when I arrived first in UK. But since the first day of my induction, my Programme Director and my Tutor have been pillars in supporting the me through my studies.  

Although at first I struggled at first to understand writing academically, participating in the Library’s Skills workshop equipped me with key tips and skills to write critically. I also had one-on-one sessions with the library team to improve my writing. They have been an anchor in supporting my transition to an international education system. 

What is your impression/experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the student union, the City of Leeds and the Yorkshire region? 

When I first arrived in Leeds, I was nervous because I arrived at night and out of normal office hours, but I had the most friendly and helpful taxi driver who helped me with my arrival. Since that experience, people in general have been so nice and approachable in Leeds. This extends to the University as well - I have had such beautiful experience of kindness from the local community. 

Are there any experiences outside of your studies that you particularly enjoyed?

My engagement with Link to Leeds has been a great experience, not just as an extracurricular activity, but also in sharpening my transferrable skills. It has given me the platform to express my creativity through videos, blogs and social media creatives. Apart from this, my participation in Vibes Bollywood Dance Society has helped me keep in touch with my passion for dancing. I also had the opportunity to meet with some great local dancing talent. 

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

Yes, for sure. The Business School has shaped me and molded me into the person I am now. The exposure provided has been a life changing experience as an international student.