Previous Institution
Brunel Pathway College (BPC) - First Year University Studies
Which country do you currently live in?
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Tell us about your educational and/or career journey since you graduated from Brunel?
I moved back to the UAE towards the end of 2010 and almost immediately started applying for work. I kickstarted my career working with an interior decorating company in the UAE. The ethics and life skills which I learnt during my time there opened doors of opportunity for my career development gradually with the university recognition and I grabbed various opportunities that arose. At present, I work as an Analyst for a semi-government healthcare industry.
What does a typical day at work involve for you?
On my average day of work, I start the day off by checking my emails. This way, I can reply to clients and get everything organized at the start of the day. I then look over my to-do list and get started on the projects that have my top priority. The practical skills obtained at university (especially handling various coursework projects) definitely helped me to be more organised and gain time management skills.
What’s been the highlight of your career journey so far?
I think that the highlight of my career so far arrived a few months ago when COVID had affected the healthcare system, when I was assigned to lead the procurement activities to overcome shortages of necessary PPE supplies for our caregivers. This was a huge responsibility and working in teams (as we did in university projects), we successfully achieved our purchasing targets.
How would you say your Brunel experience has helped you to get where you are today?
Brunel was a complete learning experience, from having a worldwide recognised accreditation to developing skills necessary for personal and professional growth. Also, meeting fellow students from all around the world and different cultures helped build the social capital and networks. It also helped me master time management skills and develop other essential on-the-job abilities, such as leadership and communication skills.
Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?
I began the process of looking at various universities in London. Being a future international student, my criteria was simple; I wanted a university that was fully accredited, internationally recognised, had a good reputation and very high academic standards. The best part about Brunel is its package. From the sports centre, the library, lecture halls, computers centres, grocery, bank, food joints, accommodation, Students’ Union bars and club, and many other cultural societies - everything is at one place. I used to describe it to my family and friends as a ‘Kingdom’.
What is your best memory of studying here?
For me, the two special occasions in my university life include my first day there and then my graduation ceremony. But on a personal note, the friendships I have made from my time there are stronger than ever. I'll keep my misdemeanours to myself as I don't want to ruin my impeccable reputation! I stayed in university accommodation during my last two years and it was an amazing experience to live with diversified students from so many different cultures. I learnt so much about different ethnicities and backgrounds, and I was able to celebrate many different cultural festivals with them.
If you could give one piece of advice to current Brunel students, what would that be?
Studying at Brunel is a lifetime experience filled with opportunities. Keep your goals in mind, work hard by being organised, and use your resources wisely. Meanwhile, do not forget to enjoy and have fun with friends and join the various clubs that Brunel has to offer.
What would be your top tip or key advice for new graduates as they begin their career journey after leaving Brunel?
You will learn something new every day at Brunel. Do not forget to showcase your skills, share examples of time management and how independent and organised you were completing projects, and highlight your experiences that reflect those in-demand qualities.
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