Charlie Kirby

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

Human resource management is still an upcoming specialisation, so I was delighted when I found out Leeds University Business School offered an undergraduate HRM degree - and it was CIPD accredited!

I came to Leeds through the BSc Business Studies with a Foundation Year. This did influence my decision to come to Leeds as it shows that they care about all prospective students and appreciate it if things don't go to plan.

My foundation year meant I had to do one extra year of study, but I still was treated like a normal student and get to graduate with a normal degree.

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

The best part of my studies are attending seminars. These are a fun learning environment to be in where you can bounce off other people’s ideas - and even start a big debate!

The support I have received from lecturers and tutors, both during my Foundation Year and also on the HRM course, is absolutely outstanding. They guide you to make sure you are on the right path.

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?

My ultimate goal is to be able to help people in organisations that may have felt like they are forgotten about. Having studied HRM at undergraduate level, I will be able to put this into practice from day one by using theories and strategies I have studied.

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

Nurturing Talent Mentor Scheme

By the start of my second year, I was certain that I wanted to apply for a placement year, but I didn’t know exactly what sector to work in. Looking to the future, I didn’t really understand all the options that were available for me after graduation or how to work towards them. So I saw this scheme as an invaluable opportunity to not only grow my network but gain practical career advice.

My mentor was a HRM professional from Marks and Spencer, she was a fantastic mentor and a fountain of advice for both applying for my placement and also my options after graduation. It was also very nice to have the chance to visit the head office!

Year in Industry at Enterprise Rent-A-Car

I successfully secured a Year in Industry at Enterprise Rent-A-Car (ERAC). I had a rollercoaster of a year and gained so much experience. At ERAC I was involved in a lot of aspects of the business, so I finished the year with a wealth of experience. This definitely improved my employability. I also enjoyed growing my network and made friends for life.

Undergraduate Intern

Having been in the position myself, I now get the opportunity to go out and talk to prospective students about Uni. I love being able to reach out to secondary school students and encourage them that they can do anything they put their mind to.

Mentor for IntoUniversity

I volunteered with IntoUniversity to mentor a year 11 student during her GCSE period. I was there to help guide and coach her through the tricky period. Seeing her progress through the mentor experience was great.

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

Moving from a rural area to a city it definitely seemed like a big jump. I was worried it was going to be a difficult transition, but everyone I have met has been very welcoming. I have also taken the opportunity to get involved in the Students Union, and am Team Captain of the Dancesport society!