We’re encouraged to look at real business scenarios and think critically about decisions

Student Jake Munro-Proud stood in front of a panelled wall
Jake Munro-Proud
Current student
Business Management BA
Jake Munro-Proud is studying Business Management and is in his first year. After living in Sheffield with his family, Jake is getting a new perspective of the city.
Student Jake Munro-Proud stood in front of a panelled wall

I decided to study at the University of Sheffield because of its strong reputation, but also because it genuinely felt welcoming when I visited

I chose Business Management because I’ve always been curious about what goes on behind the scenes in successful companies. I’m really interested in how businesses grow, make big decisions and adapt to different markets, especially internationally. Travelling has definitely influenced that. Seeing how different cultures approach work and business made me more aware of how global everything is now. I’m particularly drawn to the people side of organisations too, like how strong leadership and teamwork can completely shape a company’s success.

I decided to study at the University of Sheffield because of its strong reputation, but also because it genuinely felt welcoming when I visited. As someone who’s originally from Sheffield and still lives at home, it felt like the right choice for me. I can stay close to my family and the city I know.

So far, I’ve really enjoyed how varied the course is.

We’ve covered different areas of business, including accounting and finance and behaviour at work, which has helped me see how everything links and influences each other. I’ve especially found the organisational and behaviour at work content interesting, as it feels really relevant to how real workplaces operate. I’ve also liked the mix between lectures and seminars. The seminars are more interactive, which makes it easier to ask questions and actually discuss ideas. The group projects have also been a good way to build confidence by working with new people and collaborating together.

We’re encouraged to look at real business scenarios and think critically about decisions

During my first year, I’ve developed strong analytical skills through research and coursework, as we’re encouraged to look at real business scenarios and think critically about decisions. I’ve also improved my confidence in presenting ideas and working in teams, especially through group projects and seminar discussions. Managing multiple deadlines has definitely helped me become more organised and better at time management. 
 

The degree is giving me a solid understanding of how businesses operate overall

In the future, I’d like to work in HR or recruitment because I’m really interested in the people side of business and how organisations build strong teams. I like the idea of helping people find roles that suit them and supporting employees to develop and grow within a company. I think this degree is giving me a solid understanding of how businesses operate overall, which is important in HR. It’s also helping me build key skills like communication, teamwork and critical thinking, which I know will be essential in a people-focused career. 

I think a placement would be a great opportunity to apply what I’ve learned so far to a real business environment

I’m hoping to complete a placement year, ideally within HR or recruitment, as I’m keen to gain hands-on experience in a people-focused role. I think a placement would be a great opportunity to apply what I’ve learned so far to a real business environment and develop a deeper understanding of how organisations attract and manage talent.

Although I haven’t started my placement year yet, the university has already provided a lot of helpful support in preparing for it. The careers team has organised sessions with placement returners, which has been really useful in understanding what the experience is actually like and how to stand out during the application process. They’ve also given guidance on where to search for opportunities, which websites to use and how to strengthen applications and improve interview performance.
 

I really like the balance of city life and nature in Sheffield.

It’s great being in a city with lots going on, but also a short drive to the Peak District. The staff and support services are really approachable, and the careers team has been amazing for advice on placements and applications. Even living at home, I feel like I’ve properly settled into uni life and had the chance to try new things and meet new people. 

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