Halima Patel

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I was introduced to the university through a previous alumnus at the university, which sparked my interest, after hearing about the great experience that they had. I also knew that Westminster Business School was one of the largest business schools in London. I was looking for a university that not only contributed to my academic studies but also gave me a sense of community.

How has your experience been studying in London?

The campuses were based in London, which gives you the opportunity to explore some of the main landmarks of the city and experience the hustle and bustle of London. Regents Park is located very close to Westminster Business School, which allowed me and my friends to take a breath of fresh air in between lessons or after a busy day of studying. Which was a great detox!

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

I loved my Business Management (Human Resource Management) BA course! I was looking for a course that would allow me to study business management but also human resource management, and this course gave me the perfect mix! This course taught me the key skills of business management such as leadership, operations management, accounting and marketing. But I was also able to explore the key skills and topics in human resource management such as coaching, strategies, employee benefits, employment law and much more! It gave the key insights that I needed in order to know how to manage employees and also how to manage the organisation. The course allows you to work with real case studies which turns your study into real-life examples!

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

Yes definitely! I have received great support from my lecturers and the academic staff. The lecturers have always been there to give guidance, and to give their support to any queries or concerns that we had. There were also senior members that would deal with concerns and designated departments in the university that will assist with your queries.

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

The Business Management (Human Resource Management) BA provides the student with access to the CIPD which is the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. They are a professional body for human resources. They focus on people’s development and set behavioural standards for the human resource profession.

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

I took part in the Explore Teaching Scheme, which is a 14-day placement at a school. It allows you to be under the guidance of a teacher who will be your mentor for the placement. This placement gave me a great experience in the life of a teacher. I was able to observe lessons and plan and conduct my own lessons and activities for the students. I would recommend this scheme to any student that is aspiring to become a teacher!

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

In my final year as an undergraduate student, I had the opportunity to become the Course Representative for my course, which meant that I was part of the Students’ Union. It gave me the chance to make a difference in my classmates’ learning, by taking up concerns and queries and passing them over to my course lead and senior members of the university. Additionally, I was able to participate in the Student as Co-Creators programme, where teachers and students partner up and work on a project together. I was given the opportunity to consult a Kuwait Marketing Agency to assist with their strategy and give a strategy review, which included giving a pitch on our ideas and recommendations. This was a very interesting experience and opportunity for me!

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

My advice would be to make the most of your time at university! Build connections with your teachers and lecturers, not only will it help you in regard to your studies, but this will also be a great networking opportunity for you! Don't just stick to your academic responsibilities, but take part in extracurricular activities, it will allow you to talk to more people and network with more students that are outside your course.

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

There is a great sense of community at the University of Westminster. You will always feel welcomed by the students and the staff at the University. There will be support given from various members of the university.

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

Extracurricular activities can make a big difference to your university experience. It will lead to great networks, and it will lead to more opportunities.