Katy Jacks

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

I was first attracted to Leeds University Business School because of the excellent reputation of the Business School. When I discovered how strong the Business School was for Marketing, I was even further swayed to chose Leeds.

Another key element for me in choosing Leeds University Business School was the year in industry and year abroad opportunities, these were significantly better than other universities I considered.

What is the best part of your studies? What are you enjoying the most?

The best part of my studies is the range of modules available to me. I have been able to choose modules to completely customise my degree and study what I am interested in.

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? In what way?

I have secured a graduate job at a large accountancy firm, which I would not have been able to achieve without the skills and experience I have gained throughout my time at Leeds. My industrial placement year, which the Employability and Opportunity Team helped me to secure, provided me with such a broad range of experiences that have equipped me very well for future job applications.

The content of my modules also aid my skill development. Modules that involve group work or presentations develop your skills outside the usual essays and coursework assignments, ensuring a really good preparation for future careers.

Have you taken up any of the extra opportunities available to you and what was your experience of these eg. PASS scheme, work placement, study abroad, being an ambassador, student societies etc.? Any highlights?

In my time at the Business School I have been a PASS Leader, a Student Ambassador, a member of student society and I play for the Business School Netball Team. However, the highlight of my time at Leeds has been my industrial placement year. It was by far the best experience I have ever had, and I learned so much. My placement tutor’s feedback helped me to achieve a distinction in my year out, and this achievement added to my achievements in the workplace.

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

I feel so lucky to be part of the Business School and have access to brilliant facilities. My experiences with the Employability and Opportunity Team and all our staff have helped me so much in both my skills and my confidence with careers.

I have only had positive experiences with the university and especially Leeds University Union. In my first year I set up a society with a friend, and the Union staff gave us loads of support to not only set up the society, but also run it and come up with new ideas.

The City of Leeds is such a vibrant place, and there is always something going on. Part of the reason I love Leeds so much is the never ending stream of things to explore in the city, and how close the university is to the centre, enabling us to easily access everything.

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

Definitely, the resources and support available from the Business School have enabled me to really enjoy my time at Leeds and prepare me for the career that I want.