In today’s rapidly evolving world, technology and business are becoming increasingly intertwined. A degree in Business Information Systems is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to thrive at the intersection of these two dynamic fields.

We had the privilege of speaking with Teuta Asllanaj, a 2024 graduate of the Business Information Systems BSc, who shared her highlights and experiences of studying the course and life at Westminster.

Combines IT and Business Expertise

One of the standout features of a Business Information Systems degree is its balanced curriculum, which integrates modules that focus on both IT and business perspectives. This combination is ideal for students who want to develop a broad skill set instead of focussing on intensive coding. Furthermore, for those who are unsure whether to pursue a career in technology or business, this degree offers valuable insights through the diverse modules included in the curriculum.

I chose this course because of its diverse modules, knowing that it would help me explore different fields and ultimately guide me toward a career path that truly sparks my interest. Each module offered something different, exposing me to areas I had never considered before. Over time, I discovered my passion for cybersecurity and I decided to pursue MY STUDIES AT Westminster with a postgraduate course in Cyber Security and Forensics to enhance my expertise in this area. 

Student Ambassador scheme

In my second year, I joined the Student Ambassador scheme. As a Student Ambassador, I participated in Open Days and Events, engaging with prospective students interested in studying my course about my experiences at the University of Westminster. I shared insights about my course, experiences and answered their questions, helping them envision their potential future at the university. Additionally, I led campus tours for guests, showcasing our excellent facilities and vibrant student life.

This role has been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. It allowed me to develop essential skills such as public speaking, effective communication, and leadership—all of which are invaluable for any career. Managing my ambassador duties alongside academic commitments also strengthened my time management skills, enabling me to balance responsibilities efficiently.

What I’ve enjoyed most about this role was connecting with prospective students and being part of their journey toward making an informed decision about their education. Moreover, the flexibility to earn money through part-time work that fit seamlessly around my studies was an added benefit.

Overall, my time as a student ambassador has been a key part of my university experience, enhancing my employability and preparing me for life after graduation.

Westminster Working Culture Program

The Westminster Working Culture program offers students a unique opportunity to explore diverse professional landscapes both within the UK and internationally. This initiative includes skills development workshops, and networking events, providing invaluable insights into various career paths and global work environments.

I was able to participate in an international trip to Barcelona, Spain. My trip was an extraordinary experience filled with unforgettable moments. During my time there, I had the opportunity to engage in meetings with inspiring Westminster alumni who are making their mark in Barcelona. Their stories and insights about their professional journeys were both motivating and enlightening. Furthermore, I gained valuable insights into the work environment and employment culture in Barcelona. These insights have broadened my perspective and given me a better appreciation of what it takes to thrive in an international setting. Beyond these professional learnings, I had the chance to explore some of Barcelona’s beautiful destinations, making the trip an unforgettable blend of cultural enrichment and career inspiration.

Work-Based Learning

In my second year, I had the privilege of participating in work-based learning through the Agile Project Management and Professional Experience module. This experience was a pivotal moment in my academic journey, allowing me to apply my skills in a real-world context while collaborating with industry professionals.

A highlight of this module was working closely with the Lead IBM Mentor, who served as our Project Sponsor and Business Visionary. My project team was tasked with proposing and implementing a prototype web application to enhance IBM SkillsBuild—a globally accessible, self-service platform offering resources in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Security, and Cloud Computing.

Throughout the project, we had online sessions with the IBM Mentor to ask questions about the existing website and anything that was unclear to us. These sessions gave us valuable insight into the project’s vision, including the specific features and functionalities to be prioritised. This hands-on experience was both challenging and rewarding, and it underscored the importance of teamwork, innovation, and effective communication in real-world projects.

Group mentoring session

As part of the Information-Driven Entrepreneurship and Enterprise module, we had the opportunity to participate in group mentoring sessions, where we were paired with a mentor currently working in the industry. I took part in these sessions, where I presented my team’s business ideas for coursework and received valuable feedback from the mentor. The mentor offered insightful feedback, helping us refine our concepts and improve our approach. These discussions were not only a chance to strengthen our project but also an opportunity to develop essential communication and presentation skills. Beyond the coursework, the mentoring sessions were a source of inspiration. Hearing about the mentor’s career journey was incredibly motivating, and it offered practical advice on how to start my own career. From tips on crafting a compelling CV to strategies for securing a job, the guidance I received was both actionable and encouraging.

About Westminster

As one of the most diverse universities in the UK, we are a global university with London energy, with more than 19,000 students from 169 countries. To find out more about our Business Information Systems BSc, visit our website.