Gabriela Koleva

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I chose the University of Westminster because of its wonderful reputation of having students from a variety of backgrounds and its international culture. In addition to that, my high-school best friend was studying there and seemed to thoroughly enjoy her time at university.

How has your experience been studying in London?

I moved to London to study at Westminster, however, the first year of my course was entirely online which I found a bit challenging as I’d only just moved to the City. My second year here has already been much better in terms of opportunities to socialise and access campus resources. 

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

I'm currently in my second year of the four-year Finance and Business Management BA (including a one year Industrial Placement) and I can confidently say that I've learned a lot about the world of finance.

I began my studies with no previous knowledge in finance or business management and coming this far already has definitely been rewarding and intellectually stimulating. What I enjoy the most about my course is the new lens of understanding of the role of finance in the world and in business that I'm slowly but surely building.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

I have found all of my lecturers to be very supportive! Some of them have even gone out of their way to provide additional information related to topics explored in class that we can use to get a more in-depth understanding of relevant finance topics (such as book recommendations). 

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

Personally, I really enjoy spending time in the Marylebone Library. The interior design is great, the environment is motivating and propels productivity.

Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service 

I have used the Career and Employability Service a few times, having previously booked one-on-one sessions with a Careers Consultant to discuss my CV and Industrial Placement aspirations. Each time I have received some valuable feedback from the Consultant, which has helped me to evaluate the information I chose to include and improved the structure of my CV.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course 

Outside of my course, I have participated in Westminster Working Cultures (WWC UK), Westminster Finance Society and this academic year I have also nominated myself and have been elected for the Course Representative of Finance and Business Management BA (Level 5).

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

I would advise prospective Westminster students to consider their career goals/aspirations and evaluate how their experience at the University can contribute to the successful attainment of those goals. There are plenty of extracurricular activities that are open to everyone to explore and I would recommend getting involved in more than just your course early on, ideally in your first year. 

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

The best aspect of being a University of Westminster student is the diverse environment that you immerse yourself in every time you step on campus. Everyone is very supportive and ready to help. The facilities that we have access to as Westminster students are world-class. 

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

The most surprising or unexpected aspect of my Westminster experience so far has been the change in my outlook and understanding of the world as I get to learn more about finance, business and economics.