Saptarshi Ray

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

I came across Leeds University Business School from an internet search and I have found it is really good in management research and academic development. I have gone through several ranking systems and in QS ranking, which is best for management school rankings, Leeds University Business School is among the top 100. I wanted to do my Masters in Business Analytics from a renowned business school and that is why I have chosen to study here.

Tell us about your course? 

I am working in the same field and analytics and data handling is my passion. When I came across this course at Leeds University Business School I looked through the various modules and found that the modules cover almost all of the essential aspects of business analytics. This is the reason why I have opted for this particular course.

Did you receive a scholarship to study here? 

Yes. I received the GREAT Scholarship (India) to study here. Receiving the scholarship meant a lot to me. Without it, I would not have been able to join the programme. I think I was awarded the scholarship because of my profile: I have completed a research paper in the field of analytics, I have shown a consistently bright performance throughout my academic career and I have good recommendations from my employer as well as from my professor. I think these all contributed towards my success.

What would you say to anyone considering applying for a scholarship?

I think if anyone is considering applying for a scholarship he/she should start applying at the earliest opportunity. There are a lot of scholarships available in India but most of them close early. I started looking at scholarships really late and by that time all of the other scholarship options except the GREAT scholarship (India) were over, so I only applied only for this one.

I think you have to be very careful when writing your personal statement and make sure that it is synchronised with your objective of study. You should get a good recommendation from your academics as well as from your employers. So I’d advise you to always keep a good connection with your boss and professor.

What is the best part of your studies?  

I am mostly enjoying two aspects of my studies. Firstly, I am working with students from various nationalities and it is a great cultural learning experience. Secondly, I am enjoying the seminars on the course and have found that it is really helpful to do some practical stuff and explore my own abilities.

What are your career aspirations?

I want to start a new venture three years down the line, but after the completion of my education I want to work in an analytics company where I can play with real life data. I think Leeds University Business School will help me to build up my networks to prepare for this, as for any venture networking is the most important part. Working in a cross cultural team will make me more broadminded and I think that is a key feature of the Business School.

How was the transition to study in the UK? 

I am from India and this is the first time I have come abroad. This is the first time I am in a different country and to this day, I have not faced any difficulty. I guess the main reason behind this is that English is the official language here, and also because the city of Leeds is really beautiful. The local people are very helpful and so nice.

The University International Student Office has provided great support from the day I arrived. I have not faced any difficulties through being in a different country.

What has been your experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the city of Leeds and the Yorkshire region? 

I have had a charming experience with all of the support provided from staff, peers and also the facilities. People over here are very friendly and helpful. Whenever I have faced a problem with identifying a location, instead of using GPS (sometimes GPS is not reliable) I have asked a pedestrian and they were happy to help me.

The city of Leeds is beautiful, the perfect student city. There are various pubs to hang out in and I have also watched the Leeds ‘Light Night’ show. It was beautiful. For the first time in my life I have watched a rugby match at Leeds Headingley stadium. The atmosphere was electrifying. I have also enjoyed the Bonfire Night at Roundhay Park in Leeds.

I can say that I am really enjoying my stay over here.

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

I strongly recommend the Business School for future students. I welcome them all.