Saad Kamran
- Course: MSc Economics and Finance
- Year of graduation: 2012
- Nationality: Pakistani
- Job title: Financial Services Professional
- Company: Investcap Group
Why did you choose Leeds University Business School?
My research into Leeds University Business School gave a good impression about its ranking in the UK, its faculty and the wide range of courses offered along with an excellent set of facilities to enable and encourage students to live up to their potential.
Tell us about your course – why did you choose it?
Having majored in BSc Economics for my undergraduate at Kent, I wanted to continue in the field of Economics while adding extra value. I did so by choosing to pursue my Masters degree in Economics and Finance.
What was the best part of your studies here?
I had an amazing experience at the Business School and met people from across the globe (17 countries). Some of the friendships I made will surely last for the rest of my life. I appreciate the guidance given to me by my lecturers as well as my dissertation supervisor. Without their support, I would not have been able to perform as well as I did.
What were your career aspirations when you arrived?
I have always been interested in the fields of Economic Research as well as Banking. A key part of my degree focused the Eurozone crisis in detail, the global financial crisis as well as the Asian crisis of 1997. I can surely put the knowledge I gained to use in the near future, wherever my career takes me.
How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?
I now work at Investcap Group. Based on the trading floor I look after and manage/monitor stocks based at the Karachi Stock Exchange. I also monitor international commodities (Gold & Crude Oil).
What advice do you have for current students or alumni wishing to pursue a similar career?
I would most certainly recommend students to choose the Leeds University Business School, especially if they wish to develop a career in the field of Economics and Finance. In my one year at Leeds, not only did I live up to my academic potential as a result of a highly qualified and professional faculty, but I also gained the confidence to take a step forward in my life and expand my networks.
What are your ambitions for the future?
I have set myself a number of big goals for the future but I believe that it is important to not lose focus on one's current goals in order to stay on track to achieve the future goal. I wish to start up my own sports firm once I have gained the necessary experience and knowledge in the practical world. Hopefully I will reach greater heights one day.
What would you say is your defining memory of studying here?
My defining memory/moment is the day I received my Masters degree certificate from the Vice Chancellor. At that moment, all I could think of is how I have struggled in the past to make it to this point today and how with the support of a single mother, I have been able to achieve things I never imagined I would!
Graduation day: did this live up to your expectations?
Graduation day at Leeds was one of the biggest days of my life! My mother was unable to attend (she watched the ceremony online). I had a few cousins and friends of mine sitting and watching me graduate. It was the best feeling ever!
Would you recommend the Business School to others?
Absolutely. Any day.