Almas Madarwala

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

I first heard about the University of Leeds, during my visit to the UK back in 2006, and although the idea of studying further remained on the back burner for a longtime, when I finally did start working on shaping my career trajectory via higher education, Leeds University Business School featured in my my top five university choices to apply. The deciding factors were, university world ranking position, international accreditation standards such as CIPD, EQUIS and AMBA, course content, research strength and financial implications of tuition fees and living expense. Leeds University Business School as per my analysis has the best fit combination of brand value and within my budget.

Tell us about your course? Why did you choose it? What elements of the course inspired you to study here?

MA Human Resource Management is taught by experienced lecturers, the content is both research-based and incorporates contemporary issues, which is the key element that I appreciate.

What was the best part of your studies? What did you enjoy the most?

The best part of my studies was the entire experience of being a student. Our academics gave us the tools and freedom to probe and challenge lecturers on course relevant topics. It was highly satisfying helping my colleagues through the programme within my role as course representative.

Do you have any noteworthy achievements from your study at the Business School that you can tell us about?

Winning the Business School Human Resource Management in Practice (HIP) team of the year award was the high point of my student career at LUBS, the experience of working with team members of diverse cultural backgrounds and presenting in front of a panel of high profile judges, including top academics and practitioners such as the Deputy CEO of CIPD was highly motivating; the moment that topped it all was when I accepted the trophy on behalf of my team!

If you are not from the UK, how was the transition to a foreign country? Did the University offer support or services that you found helpful? Can you offer any advice?

As an international student the transition phase is very crucial and the support system put in place by the University helps international students in settling down in the new environment.

In my capacity of sub-warden, I was in a position to provide the required support to other students and the best advice that I can give to international students is never hesitate to ask for support, the University has multiple advice and guidance services in place that you can take advantage of, so always feel free to ask for help, remember no question is a silly question.

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

I have absolutely enjoyed my time in Leeds, the University and the Business School. As much as I have gained from the University I have also tried my best to contribute to the community by volunteering my services for environmental causes, helping other students in the position of sub warden at university residence and as a student ambassador guiding new students.

I can confidently say that each and every experience has been a learning experience for me, and best of all is that I have found great friends here ... Friends for life.

Are there any experiences outside of your studies that you have particularly enjoyed? 

Besides the several activities that I have participated in, I was extremely honoured to participate in the advisory board meeting, an initiative for the MA Human Resource Management course, where academics meet practitioners to discuss the course in detail and understand its practical implications, with a view to improve the course so as to suit the requirements of the practical world. It was during this meeting that I realised how well the course was designed and the extent of the school's efforts to give the students the best possible education and tools to forge their way into the practical world.

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

I found my teachers highly dedicated, and they constantly push you to improve. Masters level studies can be very intense but the academic support provided is very well established. As an international student I had to acclimatise to the new studying methods and systems which was made easier by the support provided by my academics and personal tutors.

The high quality of education to a certain extent is codified by several accreditations the business school has gained, but from my personal experience I would certainly recommend the Business School to other potential students.