Not your typical student but a very real one – Meet Ron! We only met in our final year of our degree but I wish I had met him in our first, three years ago. To me he’s charming, well spoken and all round cool guy! Here’s my interview with Ron 🙂
Can you tell me a little about yourself?
I am 22 year old graduate with a degree in Business Management. Throughout my professional life, I have worked for organisations like Oxfam, University of Westminster and the House of Commons (Parliament). I also started my first company at the age of 19 (Loudvert) and now just recently set up my own business back in India (Bhuyan Corp). I’m an avid reader and love to travel and explore new cultures and meet new people. In the past 2 years I have been to 9 countries and can fluently speak 6 languages.
As a fellow student what would you recommend to other students in the Westminster Business School?
You have decided to step into a field where it is not about what you know, but it’s who you know. Make friends. Make LOTS of friends. Join as many societies and groups as you can. Participate in events. Friends today – connections tomorrow. Also, keep your eyes and ears open at all times. The University has a lot to offer. Career fairs, conventions, exhibitions and many departments in the university also employ students. This is a great way to gather valuable experience on your CV, and you get paid too.
As for your academic life, be very careful of the modules you select. Don’t pick any module because your friends are doing it or it looks easy. You’re not paying £9000+ a year to learn something you already know. Don’t go to university with the sole intention of getting marks. Challenge yourself. Learn something new, learn something that stimulates your mind. Study to learn and learning is a continuous process. Find a stream which you are not only good at, but you enjoy doing. Whether it be marketing, finance, human resources, law, fashion ANYTHING! Find a passion for learning and you will never cease to grow.
What have you enjoyed the most from your time at Westminster Business School?
I feel very fortunate that I have had the opportunity to study under the tutelage of some of the finest lecturers and teachers in the industry. It was one of my teachers who inspired me to start my own business and many others who have helped me along the way to realise that dream. The entire teaching and learning model of learning by doing was indeed a very enjoyable one. As a part of my course, I had the opportunity to- work with entrepreneurs, organise events, volunteer in several NGOs and build on my own business.
Have you got any memorable stories that happened during your studies at Westminster Business School that you’d like to share with us?Â
During my second year, I, along with my friends/business partners, presented to over 300 students at the Hogg Lecture Theatre promoting our business. That was one of the most memorable events for me as that made us famous overnight. Everyone in the university now knew our names and recognised us all over the campus. The lecturers were very cooperative and we then went on to do several more presentations.
Everyone is talking about employability skills what do you think is the best way to increase your employability skills during your academic studies?
Employability skills. From the first day of university till the day you graduate, it’s all about improving your employability skills. Put yourself in the shoes of the employer, if you were running the company you are applying for, would you employ yourself? The best way to know this is to find a part time job during your studies but try to avoid the ‘quick money’ jobs which would contribute nothing to your career (bar staff, club promoters etc.) These jobs although are a source of quick easy money, they offer no future prospects. As a waiter I once made £400 in tips one night but seeing that the job didn’t provide any growth opportunities, I quit and interned at a Marketing company. Getting a part time job/internship also helps you to realise what you are good at or what you actually love doing. Plus, the added experience makes your CV stand out.
How has University life changed you?
Significantly. When I came into University, my mind-set was completely different to what it is now. I had no clue what area of business I wanted to go into. I had no experience and my CV was a joke. Throughout university I saw myself changing. I participated in several events, worked with three different departments in the university, worked on simulating projects, presented to students and teachers, set up my business and in a couple of days would have a degree as well. I also feel fortunate to have met so many interesting people all throughout university. This truly has been an enriching experience.
Coming from India, why did you choose to study at Westminster Business School?
The University of Westminster Business School has got a very good reputation in India. Many of my family members and friends graduated from this very University and had nothing but positive things to say. That made the decision to come here very easy. The Westminster Business School also had one of the best Entrepreneurial courses in the country and that influenced my decision greatly. Although this wasn’t a reason at first, but the University’s Central London location is a real selling point and it is one of the reasons which attracts hundreds of Indian students to come and study here.
Now that you’ve graduated and returning home – what piece of advice would you recommend future students from India studying in London?
London is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Take advantage of that. Meet people from various backgrounds and learn about their cultures. Explore the city and don’t always stay in Central London. If you get homesick, jump on a train to Southall, that’ll cure it. There are many perks to being a student in London. One of them is Student Discounts. Don’t be shy asking if a store offers Student Discount. McDonalds, Apple Store, Topshop and even the Public Transportation – all offer student discounts. So don’t leave home without your student card. Also, always carry an umbrella. It rains here a lot more than India!
Excellent Ron! Wish you a very bright future !