Martina Giordano

Why did you choose Leeds University Business School?

I was looking for a multicultural environment and Leeds seemed an obvious choice for its location and heritage.

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

The course offered a good range of module choices together with the option of gaining CIPD membership. It also offered the support of a Professional Development Tutor to look after our progression in terms of employability.

What were the best things about your studies here? 

I really enjoyed the debates on current issues with specialists who inspired us to critique current practices and approaches in their field. I was offered the opportunity to complete my dissertation project with an international investment company. The project was around diversity management in recruitment and selection. It was a great opportunity to put my knowledge into practice in the commercial world. I was very pleased that the business actually made use of my final report when reviewing their overall diversity policies.

Did you win any awards, prizes or other achievements during your studies? 

Yes, I was awarded the Abecedar Prize for Best Academic Performance by an International Student on the MA Human Resource Management. I was surprised and extremely pleased given all the effort I had put into it. It definitely increased my self-confidence. The award also meant a lot to my family, especially my husband, who had supported me throughout my studies. 

Why do you think were you successful in being awarded the prize? 

I was very engaged with the debates on the subject, to the point where I could quote papers I had read because I had really enjoyed them. Reading around 10 academic papers a week wasn’t a burden because I enjoyed having my ideas challenged, as well as questioning what other people had written. Seminars were my cherished opportunity to hear about other people’s perspectives on issues and refine my understanding.

How has your career progressed since leaving the business school?

I have obtained a job with the University of Leeds as Student Education Project Assistant and this role has introduced me to student education services, an area which I was interested in given my background in teaching. The role has also introduced me to project management practices, a field I find very attractive for future career steps.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I would like to specialise further in student education services and move into project management within academia.

Do you think your experience and skills gained here will help you in your future career plans?
The course equipped me with good analytical tools and also offered me a number of opportunities for self-reflexivity and personal development.

How did you find the experience of studying at Leeds? 

Staff impressed me with their professionalism, courtesy and friendliness. They were always approachable and helpful. I think Leeds is big enough to offer something to everyone without overwhelming you, like bigger cities tend to do. The campus is large, yet self-contained and feels very much part of the city. 

What would you say is your defining memory of studying here?

The support received by both professional and academic members of staff.

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

Of course – I would recommend them to come ready to be inquisitive, critical and open-minded.