Loughborough was the only university I visited and the only one I truly wanted to attend. Looking back, it might sound like a gamble but now three years into my degree, I know it was the right decision. From the course to the campus and the community, Loughborough has been exactly what I needed.
Studying at Loughborough Business School feels like being part of a close community. Even with over two thousand students, there is a strong sense of connection. Everyone is friendly and shares a passion for business. The Business School Hub has been a fantastic space to work outside of lectures, where I could learn from peers and go to revise before an exam. After my placement year, I was genuinely excited to return and complete my final year. There is something special about the environment that motivates you to do your best.
During my placement year I worked for Centrica within the British Gas business unit. During the interview, they emphasised their learning and development opportunities, which was a big selling point for me. My placement has taught me a lot about workplace culture but also develop my work persona as a confident individual.
Through continuous feedback, I’ve had opportunities to present data and projects to senior stakeholders and developed skills I will carry forward into my future career. I developed a strong interest in sustainability. Centrica is working on innovative solutions like battery storage and hydrogen infrastructure to help people live more sustainably. Being part of this work sparked my curiosity and passion.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to join the 'How to Change the World – Global Sustainability Project Bootcamp'. It was amazing to learn more about sustainability challenges around the world and to explore how we can design practical solutions that work across different cultures and economies. It also gave me a refreshing opportunity to apply my economics knowledge before heading into final year.
The bootcamp was incredibly interactive and collaborative. We worked in diverse teams around the world, conducted research, attended expert-led sessions and developed solutions to real sustainability challenges. We had to think creatively and critically while being mindful of cultural and social differences. It was a fast paced three days but an inspiring experience that encouraged teamwork and purpose-driven thinking.
I had the opportunity to work as part of a project team focused on addressing the urgent issue of unsafe and unaffordable cooking methods in Nairobi’s informal settlements. Millions of people still rely on charcoal and firewood, which pose serious health risks and contribute to deforestation.
Through stakeholder interviews, expert mentoring, design thinking workshops and open innovation sessions, we developed a Pay-As-You-Go LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) model tailored to the local context. The solution was community-driven, aiming to remove upfront financial barriers by allowing families to purchase gas in smaller, more affordable amounts via mobile money.
We presented our project to an international panel of experts in business, sustainability, urban design and public policy. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and we were recognised and awarded for our creative and inclusive approach. It was an incredible experience that showed how interdisciplinary thinking and a people-first mindset can lead to impactful, real-world solutions
I feel equipped with more than just academic knowledge. My placement year gave me a huge amount of professional experience as a digital analytics and insight analyst.
I know how much I have grown in terms of technical skills but also my confidence, adaptability and leadership. Loughborough has prepared me to face the job market with the belief that I will find a role aligned with my values and goals.
What I do know is that I want to be happy. For me, that means using the economics tools I have gained to make a real impact while also having time to live a balanced life. I want to be in a role that allows me to think critically and creatively but also gives me space to do things I love like playing lacrosse and going on evening runs.
To me, 'Progress with Purpose' means moving forward with intention. It is not just about ticking off achievements but about making sure that every step aligns with who I am and what I care about. It means learning and growing in a direction that reflects my values, whether in my career or personal life. I want to build a future where I feel proud of what I do and how I do it.