Gertrude Asumadu

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

My decision to study at Leeds was initially from family friends. They spoke highly of the University of Leeds and how it is one of the best universities in the UK which really motivated me to study here. As for Leeds University Business School, I did not know much about it until I started my Foundation Year Programme when the Programme Director spoke highly of it and especially how competitive it is to get in. This motivated me to study harder to get the required grades to gain admission into the Business School, which I did after exceeding the basic requirements of entry.

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

I am studying BSc Economics. I have the opportunity to choose other interesting modules within the Business School coupled with the challenging compulsory modules I have to study. This helps for balance in study and makes studying a bit less stressful.

The reason I chose this course was because I loved economics in secondary school and wanted to transfer my passion for the subject to a bigger platform. Also, I realised that it had a very good standing in terms of future employability. So far, I have been challenged a lot and this has made me seek help whenever needed and overall the whole experience has made me tougher.

What has been the best part of your studies – what have you enjoyed the most? 

In all, I have enjoyed being a student. I am tougher than before my degree course and more knowledgeable in certain areas, which I believe is going to pay off in the near future. I have also received the support of the Undergraduate Office during challenging times and I recommend that students feel free to go and talk to them. They are there to help you! The Student Union also has lots of societies and other amazing opportunities just like the Business School. Take advantage of them while making sure you don’t lose out academically.

What are your career aspirations? Do you think the experience and skills you’ve gained here so far have helped you in your career plans? In what way? 

Absolutely! When I began my degree course, I was still not really sure of my future career. However, as of now, my mind has broadened and this has inspired me to think beyond just settling for a graduate programme or a job after my degree just for the sake of getting a job.

My goal is to work with international organisations such as IMF, World Bank, UN, and other prestigious organisations. Aside from this, I have the goal of setting up an organisation or social enterprise creating awareness towards disability (autism) in Ghana inspired by my brother’s condition. I believe the experience and skills I have had from the Social Enterprise modules I undertook will be useful here.

Do you have any noteworthy achievements from your study at the Business School that you can tell us about? e.g. prizes, highest scores etc. 

Undergraduate Research and Leadership Scholarship (URLS)

I was awarded this scholarship at the end of my First Year which entailed working on research projects during my 1st and 2nd year summer periods and also gaining certain key skills which would make me more employable after graduation through various seminars, talks and workshops.

M&S AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING PRESENTATION

I received this award as part of a group presentation I delivered with my group on M&S Corporate Social Responsibility of in 1960s. It was highly rewarding especially because we were part of the three groups chosen out of 21 groups that gave this presentation on the same title.

EMERGING LEADERS SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

I was very excited to be one of the 30 lucky students that were eligible for scholarship across the University. This scholarship entails participation in a Leadership Programme which consists of seminars, workshops and alumni talks, company visits, student leadership challenge sessions and other exciting competitions. These are meant to inspire students to be able to take up effective leadership positions within various work environments.

INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL BURSARY

I was awarded this bursary after demonstrating how I would benefit from participating in the 'Doing Business in Europe' seminar organised by the European Business School in Germany. The bursary also gives me the opportunity to share my experiences with other students in the Business School on my return.

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?

Transition to the UK environment was not really a big deal because I already had my family around in Leeds. However, I learnt certain basic things from personal observation and also talking to my personal tutor especially on the Foundation Year Programme.

I must mention I liked the support given to new students especially international students (culture shock awareness via Union induction for students) which makes life a bit easier on campus and around the city.

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

I have made some amazing friends as well which I will keep forever. Leeds in itself is a beautiful city and the University is situated at just the right place, allowing me to walk down to the city centre after lectures just to explore. I have visited some places such as Roundhay Park, Clarence Dock, and the Royal Armouries among others which are very lovely. I’ve also had the opportunity to go to York, Sheffield, Huddersfield, Scarborough, Newcastle and other lovely cities around the UK, an amazing experience indeed! The facilities in the University are very good and accessible to students as well, I love the Laidlaw library and the Business School, they’re awesome to behold!

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

I definitely would. I would advise them to make use of the opportunities available and also be prepared to be challenged, especially in their studies owing to the intensity of certain modules. In short, enjoy your university life and especially life at Leeds University Business School, 3 years come and go very quickly. Be prepared to learn and to be challenged!