Michael

What do you like about your course and why?

The thing I liked most about my course is the teaching; the professors and teaching staff are great at Surrey. Since my foundation year I was inspired and well supported by the teaching team. Practical projects and assignments, guest speakers, and engaging content really made it more enjoyable. Business and marketing have always been an area of interest for me and it is awesome to put the knowledge you learn to the test in real life. 

The combination of marketing classes and business management classes makes this course really interesting; you will learn so much more about business that you know now.

What do you enjoy most about Surrey?

One of the things I have loved most about Surrey is 'campus life', having everything you need in one place - the university itself is beautiful and really picturesque. Living on campus was one of the best experiences socially, and it made university life easy and simple. 

In my fresher years the thing I enjoyed most was was the nightlife! Rubix was a lot of fun, even working there as security I had a great time every week. As far as societies went, American Football was probably one of the coolest things I've ever done. I played for the Stingers for about two years and to this day I miss playing and I miss the guys. 

More recently, I joined the Salsa Society and the Catholic Society, both of which I really enjoy in different ways. I also took the Global Graduate Award for Entrepreneurship which is a great experience too, and really challenges your academic and professional skills.

Tell us more about your Professional Training Placement and study abroad

Previously, I never planned to do a placement year or study abroad, but in my third year I did both! It was an awesome experience. I studied at NAU (Northern Arizona University). This was one of the best experiences in my life! Highlights included:

• Meeting new people from new cultures and countries (Making new international friends)
• Travelling all over America - from the Grand Canyon, to Vegas, LA, Albuquerque, Orlando, Miami, DC and NY!
• The nature across America was unreal.
• Growing in my faith and meeting a massive, kind community
• Studying in America (Life at an American college is so cool)
• Trying out Frat parties, US sports and college games
• Self-development and realisation 

To say the least, I came back a new man. 

Doing a placement in the UK also significantly helped me develop professionally: developing new skills, networking and having significant responsibilities.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

After graduation I want to start my own business adventure. Besides that I am considering further study and a masters degree in Europe. I want to travel and continue growing, seeing the world and meeting new people. Work-wise, immediately afterwards I will continue in a marketing role in the UK.

What’s your advice to new students?

My advice to students wanting to study business management is to enjoy it and make the most of it. Study hard and go to all your classes. but also join societies, make new friends, have wild nights out – do it all!

At the end of my university journey I can genuinely say I made the most of it and matured massively by the end. The experiences and memories genuinely stay with you. 

If you are interested in business this course is great, just be prepared for any financial accounting modules as they explain the meaning of "the struggle is real"!

Also, if you can, definitely do a year abroad or at least a semester like me, it’s an awesome eye-opening experience where you can grow and learn in so many different ways.