Radoslav Boev
- Course: BA Business Management
- Year of graduation: 2023
- Nationality: Bulgarian
- Job title: Graduate Sales Specialist
- Company: Lenovo Bulgaria
Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it?
Studying abroad has been one of the most difficult and valuable decisions I have made in my life. This represented a whole new chapter in my life: living abroad, being independent, and being without my close friends and relatives. Business Management resonated with me due to the sophistication of the programme itself. In particular, the structure of the core modules and their proven impact on the business environment. Furthermore, I was keen on the freedom we had choosing from a broad range of optional modules, which further tailored the program to my interests. Last, but not least I was impressed by the range of services and support the University provided to students.
What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most about your course?
Studying in Leeds comes with great benefits aside from the programme curriculum. For me, what made my experience and time in Leeds memorable was the ability to connect with peers from all across the world, find a buddy and a lifelong friend and benefit from mentors who guided me in my personal and professional development.
The academic staff are also simply fabulous. It is not every day you meet and engage with such charming, friendly and dedicated people, always going the extra mile to assist you with your queries.
What was your impression/experience of the student union, the city of Leeds and Yorkshire? Did you do any extracurricular activities during your studies? How did you enhance your personal development? What would you recommend to future students?
The Leeds University campus is an amazing place which always hosts a diverse set of activities and events tailored both in terms of professional development, but also leisure. You can find everything from career events or live music performances, to flea markets and bars. The city centre, only a 10-minute walk away from campus, was a frequent destination for meeting up with friends and enjoying what the city has to offer.
External activities were a great option for me to clear my mind and also keep myself in good shape and health. I enrolled in the table tennis society and it has been a great opportunity to improve my skills in a sport that I am passionate about. It was a great place to meet new people and discuss our mutual passion for the sport. My recommendation to upcoming students would be to always keep themselves informed of upcoming events, and any type of services and extracurricular activities that the University has to offer.
How did your experiences at Leeds University Business School help you to advance your career?
Studying Business Management at the Business School has equipped me with a varied set of experiences and insights into the business world thanks to the diverse modules. I felt confident that no matter which industry I decided to pursue a career in, I would be able to directly transfer the knowledge acquired to the workplace.
How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?Since leaving the Business School I have been pursuing a career in sales. I have been able to grow in professional and personal aspects. A notable highlight would be that I am working together with my dissertation supervisor towards publishing my paper in a journal. I find it a nice continuation of my relationship with the University and a contribution to the academic community.
What are your ambitions for the future?
I am ambitious about building up my knowledge in topics that interest me. I would love to keep progressing at work, building both new soft and hard skills. A distant ambition of mine is to pursue a PhD in the future, reuniting with the academic community.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to work in a similar role or industry to you?
I would advise thoroughly researching the company, industry and sector you are considering applying to. I found it very useful to reach out to industry professionals on social media and schedule a call to ask about their experiences and opinions.
Would you recommend the Business School to others?
I would recommend Leeds and the Business School to anyone looking for a memorable experience while also benefiting from the leading quality of education, support and facilities that the University has to offer
What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time in Leeds?
Try to go out of your comfort zone just a little bit. Try anything that represents an interest to you, as this way you not only socialise with peers, but grow as a person.