Westminster Business School Blog Young Leaders Interview Series : Wardah Abid

Young Leaders Interview Series : Wardah Abid

December 18, 2012
Student Life
1 Comment

Can you please tell me a little bit about yourself? (Briefly about what you are studying etc)

I am a second year BA (Hons) Business Management and Law student and I LOVE being a part of Westminster Business School. Currently, I am part of the Westminster Student Ambassador team where we support and help members of staff with events and students with all their queries. I also work as an events assistant as well as working with the enrolment team all year around.

How did you decide to study at Westminster Business School?

Whilst studying Business Studies at City of Westminster College, I always knew that I wanted to go to university and expand my knowledge and specialise in Business and Management. University of Westminster was my first choice as they are well known for the success of their Business School and they are one of London’s leading centres for business education. Also after attending Westminster’s open day late 2010, seeing the university’s atmosphere and meeting the current students and staff members I had my heart set on the university and was motivated to work harder at college in order to achieve my required grades and be able to attend and become part of Westminster.

How and when did you decide to be a Student Ambassador?

I love working with people, meeting new faces and helping them, therefore when I was offered to help out at the student enrolment during summer 2012 I quickly signed up and started. Later, I was asked to assist other events taking place all around the university such as open days, employer talks as well as assisting new students and resolving any queries that may concern them regarding our university. I am now a Student Ambassador at University of Westminster and I am ever so proud to be part of the team.

Can you tell us one funny moment you have experienced as a student ambassador?

There were quite a few funny moments while working and most of the time I remember having a good laugh with everyone. Up until now when we look back and catch up some of the stories they never will get old. During admissions, one afternoon I was publishing ID cards for students and while taking their photographs a few of my colleagues and I realised that it’s mostly guys that are ‘checking themselves out in their mobile phones’ to ensure that they gave their best look. I had several requests of pictures to be retaken as they thought they did not do them justice. So, at times I would end up retaking one guy’s photo several times. GUYS, you all know who you are.

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 are something that your tutors will emphasise on from day one at our University. So what is this? Employability is a set of achievements, skills, understandings and personal qualities that make graduates more likely to gain employment and become successful in their chosen occupations.

Students may assume that only having a Degree will get them far in the working industry, BUT NO NO NO guys…this is not true yes your degree is vital but it is also very important that you have gained a substantial amount of work experience as well, to familiarise yourself with the work industry, as well as increasing your working skills such as being able to work as part of a team, being organised, having good communication skills and/or leadership qualities. Therefore, while studying at Westminster University students are encouraged to take part in activities which are taking place around the university such as helping out on open days or other events. This not only increases your employability skills but helps students gain confidence and have a good balance between their theoretical understanding and practical work experience once they have finished university.

Whilst studying at Westminster, students are also introduced and familiarised with Internships which help students gain an excellent balance between their studies and the work experience which gives them an insight into their chosen field.

So, PLEASE use this opportunity wisely and make the most of your time at Westminster because you will love every moment and time will fly by very quickly.

As a fellow student what would you recommend to other students in the Westminster Business School?

Mainly just to ENJOY their time at Westminster, take things how they come step by step. It is important that you all take part in some sort of work experience preferably in your chosen field and also put a lot of effort and time into your studies because guys realistically speaking there is no ‘spoon feeding’ at this level and you guys all have the WILL POWER and are very much capable of achieving what you want to achieve. Also one quick advice work hard academically from the very beginning of your first year at Westminster and don’t lose this habit as your hard work and dedication will always pay off. Keep a good balance.

So, take part in loads of activities, you can look online they are a click away or even see your tutor in person or feel free to contact me via university email or approach me at university regarding any queries. I would love to help make a difference.

We all know that student life is hard work! How do you manage to balance your studies with all the extra-curricular activities?

It takes a lot of WILL POWER and DETERMINATION but when we want to achieve something it is all down to us to achieve it by working hard and being dedicated to accomplishing it. Time keeping / time managing is a very important and excellent skill to have as it’s required in our everyday activities. Everyone has a different approach for me I can only study at home where its ‘peace and quiet’ almost pin drop silence and I like to have my own space and just feel at total ease. So while I am at university, I attend all my lectures, seminars, group meeting and take time out for my work. I never leave a piece of coursework or exam revision to the last minute as I like to give myself enough time to revise and make sure my tasks are done to the best of my ability. Just give yourself enough time so you don’t panic last minute or rush your work. Plan and manage your time guys, this is significantly benefiting in life.

It is important that we learn to keep a good balance between our studies, working and having a good time with family and friends. So study hard, work for the experience and take time out for yourself and your loved ones.

What are the main lessons you have learnt by being so involved during your studies?

Firstly, to realise that YOU are not alone, university is new to all the first year students. It is important to interact and engage with other students, make friends and get involved in activities. I gained a lot of confidence while being at University of Westminster as I interacted with my fellow students, while working at the events, meeting, greeting and making new friends every step of the way. This has not only helped me in developing my communication skills but the overall experience has also broadened my horizon for a brighter and successful future and YOU ARE CAPABLE ACHIEVING THE SAME.

Best wishes to you all and Good luck,
Wardah Abid