Naomi
BSc (Hons) International Business and Management
Originally from Nigeria, Naomi wanted to build on her experience working as junior manager at an IT company and expand her skillset. This led her to applying for, and being accepted onto, the BSc (Hons) International Business and Management course at the University of Bradford.
This is her story.
Compared to other universities I looked at, Bradford’s course had lots of career progression opportunities and the modules sounded very interesting.
Becoming an adult learner
"Although I’d already studied Business Management at ABE (a UK-based skills development and qualification award organisation) and then worked in IT for seven years in Nigeria, I was interested in learning more about the global economy as an adult learner.”
“After a lot of research and speaking to friends who were studying at the University of Bradford, I applied for the International Business and Management course.
“I was particularly keen to experience a placement year which is offered by the University of Bradford.”
Highly recommended
“Although I had a number of reasons to apply to the University of Bradford, recommendations from friends and the management programme at ABE sold it to me.”
“One week after submitting my application, I was invited to interview and successfully secured a place on the course. I was living in London at the time and had never been to Bradford before.
"The University was incredibly welcoming and I settled in quickly in my first year.
"The Career and Employability Services team, as well as my programme and module leaders are very helpful and give me guidance whenever I need it."
The Career and Employability Services team helps you every step of the way.
“I’m looking forward to my placement year.”
“The placement year was something that drove me to apply to the University of Bradford.”
“With the help of my module leader and the careers team, I’ve successfully secured a placement which will start in September for 12 months, in a procurement role which I’m very interested in. I’m really excited for the experiences I’ll have while I’m working.
“The placement year and my course will give me the skills I need to achieve my aspirations. At the moment I have the intention of studying a Master’s degree in business analysis and then my ultimate goal is to become a business analyst at a Fortune 500 company, either in the UK or abroad. I think it would be very exciting to use my knowledge and skills to recommend changes to the operation of a business and see my suggestions implemented."
Since starting my course, I’ve learned a lot about industry, business management and why more companies are moving abroad.
Learning about global markets
"I’ve especially enjoyed learning about global markets, why some companies are so keen to expand into other countries, and why some countries are more receptive to foreign business than others."
"For example, some countries have specific entrance strategies and requirements that businesses have to meet and follow before they can expand.
"Not every market is going to be acceptable to every business, and the entrance strategies of certain businesses aren't going to be relevant to every country. You can’t avoid that more businesses than ever are expanding into global markets and this is going to have huge repercussions on the economy and how we work.
"My course has also taught me about new trends in the industry, such as ‘nearshoring’ which is where countries encourage native businesses back home to support their economy.
"It’s a small but great example of how we’re being taught the different ways that companies can thrive, and how different markets and territories can affect this."
I feel very lucky
“I really like the University of Bradford and the city.”
"I feel very lucky to be studying at the University of Bradford. The faculty in my school is fantastic and they’ve really helped me make the most of the opportunities that have come up.
"The University is very diverse and inclusive, and everyone is welcome, no matter their cultural background. This has also led me to work as a student representative for Bradford's student union, which is helping to build my confidence even more and give me opportunities to socialise and make new friends.
"This is made even more possible by the University which puts in a lot of effort into helping students, whether that’s careers support, academic support, financial support, or social support."
Being a student ambassador
"I enjoy working as a student ambassador which helps you build connections with your programme leaders and faculty.
"I work alongside them at events like Open Days, where we talk to potential students about the course, and discuss why the University of Bradford is a great place to study."
There are so many opportunities to build on your knowledge and gain work experience.