I’ve developed a strong combination of academic knowledge and practical skills that I know will be valuable in my future career

Why Business Management, and why Sheffield?

I chose to study Business Management because I’ve always been interested in how organisations grow and adapt in fast-changing markets. I’m particularly fascinated by the marketing aspect of business which is explored in various optional modules throughout the course.  During school, I enjoyed subjects that involved problem-solving and real-world case studies, which made business feel like a natural fit. I also like that Business Management keeps my career options open.

I decided to study at the University of Sheffield because of its strong academic reputation and supportive learning environment. The university is part of the Russell Group, which reassured me about the quality of teaching and research. I was also impressed by the structure of the course, especially the opportunity to gain practical experience through placements as well as variety of extracurricular opportunities in which I have taken advantage of, through joining the marketing team for Project Sunride (the universities student-led rocketry team). As well as this, Sheffield offers a wide range of societies and social opportunities.

Another reason was the city itself, Sheffield a great balance between city life and green spaces, which I found really appealing. It feels student-friendly, welcoming and more affordable compared to larger cities. Overall, Sheffield felt like a place where I could grow academically and personally. 

What have you enjoyed most about your course so far?

One thing that has stood out to me is the way assessments are structured. Instead of only traditional exams, we’ve had group presentations, essay based coursework and weekly online quizzes. These have helped me develop transferable skills such as teamwork, communication problem-solving, and time management. Working on group projects has been especially valuable because it mirrors real workplace environments.

In addition, I have found the course to be very practical and relevant. The modules aren’t just theory-based, they’re closely linked to real business situations and case studies which makes learning much more engaging.

Another highlight has been the academic support. The lecturers are approachable and encourage discussion, which makes seminars interactive and engaging. I’ve found the feedback on assignments particularly helpful because it’s detailed and constructive, allowing me to improve continuously.

What skills and knowledge have you developed?

I’ve developed a strong combination of academic knowledge and practical skills that I know will be valuable in my future career.

In terms of knowledge, I’ve gained a solid understanding of key business functions such as marketing, finance and human resource management. I now understand how these areas interconnect and contribute to overall organisational performance.

One of the biggest skills I’ve developed is analytical thinking. Through case studies and real-world business scenarios, I’ve learned how to evaluate and interpret date and propose strategic solutions. I’ve also improved my research skills by using academic journals and credible sources such as Sheffield Star Plus to support arguments in assignments.

Teamwork and communication are two other key skills I’ve strengthened. Group projects and presentations have helped me learn how to collaborate effectively, manage different perspectives, and communicate ideas clearly both verbally and in writing.

My time management and organisation have improved significantly as well. Balancing multiple coursework deadlines and independent study has taught me how to prioritise tasks and work efficiently under pressure.

What are your future career aspirations?

My future career aspiration is to build a career in marketing, particularly in areas such as digital marketing and brand management. I’m interested in understanding consumer behaviour and using data to design strategies that help businesses grow and stay competitive.

I believe my Business Management degree is providing a strong foundation for this path. The marketing-related modules have and will continue to help me understand core concepts such as market segmentation, positioning, branding, and digital strategy. Learning about wider business areas like finance and strategy has been equally important, as it allows me to understand how marketing decisions align with overall organisational objectives.

One of the most valuable aspects of the degree for my career goals is the placement opportunity. A placement will allow me to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting, gain hands-on experience with marketing tools and campaigns, and develop practical skills such as communication, teamwork, and project management. It will also help me build professional networks and improve my commercial awareness, which are essential in the marketing industry.