Muhammad Zarak Khan

Arriving at the University of Leeds was the culmination of an exciting journey that began in Islamabad, Pakistan. My educational path started at my high school and continued with my undergraduate studies in Accounting and Finance, a field that equipped me with valuable analytical skills and a strong foundation in business. I first heard about Leeds through its impressive reputation as a member of the prestigious Russell Group, renowned for research excellence and world-class teaching. The Leeds University Business School’s consistent ranking among the top business schools in the UK and globally further reinforced my decision, as I knew it would provide a rigorous academic experience and prepare me to meet industry demands.

Leeds' focus on combining data analytics with real-world applications played a key role in my decision to come here.

The University also offers access to various discovery modules, allowing students to explore different fields and apply them in versatile ways. This flexibility has enabled me to expand my knowledge beyond the core syllabus, which has been both rewarding and enjoyable.

My experience at the University of Leeds has been both inspiring and supportive. From the very first days, the warm welcome from the staff and fellow students made settling into a new country much easier.

Leeds has also given me the chance to engage in several enriching experiences beyond the classroom. The University offers a range of networking events and workshops, exposing students to industry experts and insights into the practical applications of data analytics, which has broadened my perspective on the UK’s business landscape.

The best part about my course is how hands-on it is. We’re encouraged to work with real-world data and tackle projects that challenge our critical thinking. My professors ensure that our projects are relevant to current industry trends, which is exactly what I hoped for in a business analytics program. Each class not only improves my technical skills but also prepares me to contribute effectively to the industry.

Outside of academics, sports have always been a major part of my life. Having played cricket professionally at the domestic level back home, I am deeply passionate about staying active. Here, I’ve joined sports activities at Leeds, which have been a fantastic way to stay connected to my interests, build friendships, and engage with the university community. Besides cricket, I’m also an enthusiastic player of football, volleyball, table tennis, and badminton, and I find that the university’s facilities offer an excellent environment for continuing these passions.

Leeds as a city has a unique blend of historic charm and a lively, youthful vibe. I enjoy exploring its cozy cafes, beautiful parks, and historic spots. One of my favourite places is Roundhay Park; its peaceful ambiance makes it the perfect spot to unwind after a busy week.

I live in university accommodation, which has made my transition smoother. The convenience of being on or near campus allows me to stay connected to university life and access resources easily. My residence is filled with other students, so there’s a strong sense of camaraderie, making it easy to adjust to this new lifestyle.

Looking back, choosing the University of Leeds has been a decision I am grateful for every day. The city, the university community, and the academic challenges all combine to make this experience transformative.