Alex McDougall

An inspirational offer holder day

The offer holder day really attracted me to Leeds. Hearing from the different academics about the expansive range of opportunities available at the Business School caught my eye and enabled me to understand how Leeds University Business School (LUBS) would support me throughout my journey. It was clear to me how the University goes above and beyond to develop students into professionals, in preparation for life after university, and how there is so much more to everyone's journey than just a degree. 

 

Tailoring your studies

From the offer holder day, I found out about discovery modules, which allow you to study anything of your choice on top of your chosen course. These seemed, and have proven, to be perfect for breaking up the course and tailoring it to exactly what I want to study. I particularly enjoyed the decision-making courses I picked in year 1 and 2, as these led on from one another and were extremely interesting.

One thing I find fulfilling about the Banking and Finance course is how every module links with one another. I feel like there’s purpose to each of my modules, which cover a wide range of topics from economics to finance. The foundational pillars of the course were made clear on the offer holder day, and they have been demonstrated in my subsequent learning. The course also carries professional exam exemptions, and becoming a recognised Chartered Banker when I graduate really appealed to me.

 

A Business School with ‘exceptional’ facilities

Studying at LUBS is exceptional. The endless opportunities to develop my skills have rapidly grown my confidence and other transferable skills. One thing I love about the Business School is the copious amount of study spaces, both silent and collaborative. There are countless rooms and spaces to sit and study in, and it’s a nice change to be able to use different places each day aside from just the libraries.

The staff have been incredibly helpful and supportive too, and I’ve felt like I can come to them with any query knowing that they will be willing to offer a hand. The number of different academics I have met also helps with this as they all hold different knowledge and experiences, all of which have helped me to develop in my own way.

 

Making friends and mentoring

In first year, I was a part of the LUBS Society and I frequently played football in the Casual Kickabout Society. CKS has been fantastic and enabled me to play football, without commitment or pressure, allowing me to play when I wanted and meet people from all different backgrounds and abilities.

As part of the Business School, I have been a PASS (Peer Assisted Study Session) Leader, which involves presenting to first year students and being a mentor to them, helping them settle in and learn things they may not hear from the academics. This has been really satisfying, knowing I am giving back to the University and supporting these students who are standing where I once was. 

 

Settling in – support and services always on hand

The University provided a vast array of opportunities to get involved in, during the first few weeks of arriving in Leeds. The accommodation provided many of these, which helped massively to meet new people who were staying where I was. These were provided through Residence Life, which also offered opportunities to meet people from different halls. This helped me settle in greatly. My course also had an induction session, which ended with a meet-and-greet that allowed me to introduce myself to and meet course mates.

The LUBS tutors also regularly hold meetings into University life and this was another thing that comforted me when starting, as they were the first people I approached when I had any questions. 

 

Academic achievement and rewarding experience

In second year, I received the Accounting and Finance Division Top Ten Achievement Scholarship for my academic results in first year. This was a wonderful award, knowing my hard work had paid off and was recognised by the University, and I was thankful this was offered by the Accounting and Finance department.

However, I think my biggest achievement would be the extra-curricular experiences I’ve had, which have greatly developed me as a student and a professional. The skills I’ve gained from being a PASS Leader, student ambassador, and part of the Residence Life Social Committee will be useful for my professional career. The experiences have been incredibly rewarding and I have met many fantastic people along the way. 

 

Thinking beyond to a future career

After graduating, I hope to go into the world of finance, and am currently keeping my options open for whatever opportunities arise. I believe my course has enabled me to do this, as I’ve learnt a wide range of subjects that will allow me to specialise in any financial area of my choosing. The support and networking opportunities provided by the University have been invaluable, growing my confidence when it comes to working in the professional world. The support from academics has also made a huge, positive difference to me and I will treasure their advice for years to come.

 

Making the most of the Careers Service

The Business School and University Careers Service are invaluable and have been pivotal in helping grow my confidence when it comes to thinking about my professional career. I have found the CV and cover letter support incredibly useful, but the thing I have used the most would be the psychometric testing advice and practice.

I had no experience doing these before University and the tools on offer from the Careers Service enabled me to feel confident when it came to applying for roles that incorporate this step. Support and guidance for each stage of applications is provided, and there have been so many people to speak to and get help from, which prove to be invaluable.

I can't recommend the Business School enough to anyone. The atmosphere around that part of campus is refreshing and the opportunities available to students, whether academic or extra-curricular, are incredible in helping to develop soft skills and support with the transition into a professional career.