Ashley Ross

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

I heard about Leeds University Business School through my Business teacher at Sixth Form who said it was a highly prestigious Business School. The University's global recognition and table rankings were not the only aspects that appealed to me. At Leeds, there’s something for everyone: great academic support and resources, career development opportunities and a wide range of social activities such as nightlife and sport teams.

What is the best part of your studies? What are you enjoying the most?

One of the best things about my studies is the chance to meet so many different people from all around the world. The course is incredibly multi-cultural so it is fascinating to learn about their perspectives of the business issues discussed in lectures and seminars.

What are your career aspirations? Do you think the experience and skills you will gain from your degree course will help you in your future career plans? In what way?

I’d love to continue running my own successful social enterprise, identiTee, which helps to support minority communities. Growing a business from nothing is quite an achievement so it’d be phenomenal if I could continue this project. identiTee is a gender-neutral clothing company offering a variety of t-shirts to “anyone and everyone” whilst raising awareness of anti-bullying. identiTee provides charitable donations to victims of bullying with a focus on LGBTQ+, BAME and other minority groups.

If I decided not to continue with the firm, my career aspirations are to work in the digital marketing department for a global firm in a creative industry such as Disney, Warner Bros or King all of which supports my theoretical understanding gained from my degree.

The Business School helps with a lot of preparation for future career plans - whether you want to attend a PwC psychometric testing event or need help writing a cover letter for your dream job!

Have you taken up any of the extra opportunities available to you and what was your experience of these?

Since I started university, I’ve played rugby union for the Women’s team. I’ve met so many fab people and it’s such a great way to keep your fitness up. I’d definitely recommend joining a sociable society as you’ll end up making friends for life. Being part of the Club has also given me opportunities to sit on the committee. In my second-year, I was the Media Secretary which helped me build up marketing and promotion experience. Then in my third-year, I supported the Club with a little more responsibility as the Secretary; both of which were so much fun!

I volunteered for the PASS scheme in my second-year whereby I worked with a peer to develop interactive sessions for first-year students to help them settle into university quicker. I shared knowledge from my time at Leeds, including revision techniques, the best lunch retailers on campus, and how to write a manifesto for a society committee position.

I’m a Student Ambassador at the Business School, which means I get to help at Open Events, give tours and present speeches to prospective students. It looks great to have things like this on your CV as it increases your employability. Plus, you get to network with a lot more people in the Business School who aren’t on your course.

What is your impression/experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the student union, the City of Leeds and the Yorkshire region?

Everyone at Leeds is super friendly and says hello - it’s not quite like the South… The city itself constantly has a buzzing energy with events going on like gigs, markets and food stalls but if you prefer something a little quieter you can check out Ilkley and the Moors nearby for a walk with stunning picturesque views. There’s always plenty of things going on at Leeds University Union too so you’ll never be short of something to do!

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

I’d definitely recommend the Business School as a place to study! There’s so much support throughout your time here and thereafter with something for everyone no matter what your interests. Come to the University of Leeds for the best few years of your life, you won’t regret it!