Fiza Aslam

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it?
I chose to study BSc Economics because my passion for maths (particularly statistics) developed during A-Levels. I wanted to apply this interest in a real-world context, and economics stood out as the perfect field to bridge mathematical analysis with societal and business challenges. What I like most about economics is how it applies to everything – from individual decisions to global trade and social issues. It’s a way of looking at the world and understanding how things work.

What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most about your course?
What I enjoyed most was the engaging way the modules were taught. The passion of the lecturers for their subjects was evident in their teaching, which made the content accessible, and I appreciated the interactive nature of the seminars, where questions and discussions were actively encouraged, both during and outside the sessions.

One highlight of my experience was the dissertation process. I liked having the freedom to choose my own dissertation topic and work with a supervisor whose expertise aligned with my interests. This process allowed me to explore both the theoretical and empirical aspects of economics in depth, which really enhanced my understanding of the subject. 

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?
I really enjoyed my time at the Student Union, and when I brought friends from other universities to visit, they were impressed by it. There’s so much to do.  It’s a great place to study, hang out, and grab lunch, with plenty of food places, making it a was a nice spot to relax between classes. The atmosphere was always welcoming and lively, with spaces to host societies and attend fun events.

The city of Leeds is vibrant, diverse, and full of things to explore. There was always something new to discover, from cafes and shopping spots to parks and nightlife.

During my studies, I took on extracurricular roles like being the school representative for the Economics department, where I worked closely with a group of course reps to be a bridge between students and staff. This led me to improve my communication skills, boost my confidence, and enhance my leadership abilities. I was also a student ambassador, which further helped develop skills that I now apply in my professional life.

I’d highly recommend getting involved in as many extracurricular activities as possible, whether it’s joining societies, taking on leadership roles, or attending events. Not only will it enrich your university experience, but it will also contribute to your personal development. And don’t forget to explore the city of Leeds itself - there’s so much to see and do!

How did your experiences at Leeds University Business School help you to advance your career?
When I first arrived at Leeds, I knew I wanted to pursue a career related to statistics and research. My time at university helped me narrow down my interests and solidify my career path. Through my studies, I gained a deeper understanding of economics and realized how vast the field is, with opportunities in areas like government and the private sector. While I had a strong interest in statistics and maths, I also found subjects like labour economics and macroeconomics interesting. Being able to choose my dissertation topic was a highlight, as it allowed me to explore not only theoretical economics but also empirical economics and its real-world applications. This experience confirmed my desire to work in the Civil Service and apply my economics knowledge in a meaningful way.

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?
Since leaving the Business School, my career has progressed significantly. I currently work as an Assistant Economist in the Ministry of Justice, specifically in the Prison Capacity Analysis Team. In this role, I apply the technical skills I developed during my studies, particularly in statistical analysis, to address real-world policy challenges.  

A notable highlight would have to be the key part of my work. This involves assessing the supply and demand of prison spaces, using data to forecast future needs and provide evidence-based insights to inform government decisions on prison capacity. This experience has deepened my understanding of both theoretical and applied economics, and has enhanced my analytical skills. I’m excited to continue developing my career by working in different government departments through the scheme, tackling a variety of economics projects that contribute to meaningful change.

What are your ambitions for the future?
My ambition for the future is to continue working in the Civil Service as an economist, gaining experience in different teams and broadening my expertise in economics. I aim to work across various departments to build diverse experience, such as HM Treasury, where I can focus on macro and labour economics, and the Department for Education, where I’d like to contribute to shaping impactful education policies. Ultimately, I aim to continue progressing into senior roles within the Civil Service, leading teams, taking on greater responsibilities, and having a greater impact in key policy decisions.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to work in a similar role or industry to you?
My advice would be to make the most of every opportunity to build both your technical and soft skills. Engage with your modules, learn as much as you can, and always ask for feedback from your lecturers. Additionally, don’t overlook the importance of developing other key professional skills, such as communication and teamwork, which are essential in any workplace environment. Developing a mix of skills will help you succeed in the industry and be well-prepared for the challenges ahead. 

What is your defining memory of studying here? Would you recommend the Business School to others?
My defining memory of studying at Leeds would be the friendships I made and the confidence I built in myself. University was a time of real personal growth, and being surrounded by driven, like-minded people helped me push myself both in and outside of the classroom. One moment I’ll always remember is working on my dissertation- it really tested my skills, but also made me realize what I’m capable of when I give something my full effort. The support from both my peers and lecturers made it an even better experience.

I’d definitely recommend the Business School to others. The quality of teaching, the range of activities, and the overall supportive environment make it a great place to grow, both academically and personally.

What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time in Leeds?
My advice would be to make the most of everything Leeds has to offer. Get involved in extracurricular activities and societies – they’re a fantastic way to meet new people, build skills, and enjoy life outside of your studies. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, whether it’s taking on a leadership role or trying something completely new. There’s truly a society for everyone, whether you’re into sports, arts, politics, or something niche – you’ll find a community that matches your interests. Also, take full advantage of the university’s services, like the careers team, which can help with planning your future, or volunteering/study abroad opportunities that let you give back while gaining valuable experience. Lastly, make sure to enjoy your time in the city. Leeds has so much to offer, from the social scene to the parks and the cafes, so make time to explore!