Saki Okinaka

Hi there! My name is Saki, currently pursuing a MSc International Marketing Management in the Leeds University Business School. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts back in 2020 in Tokyo, Japan. After graduation, I worked for a media agency for 4 years as a media planner. While I had an amazing time gaining valuable experience and practical knowledge in media, it also made me realize the importance of gaining fundamental and deeper expertise in marketing to make my career dream come true. Therefore, I decided to study international marketing in Leeds, which is one of the best universities and locations to focus on studies. The fact that this course is highly regarded worldwide was also appealing. It was ranked sixth in the UK, 20th in the EU and 24th in the world in the 2024 QS Business Masters ranking (Marketing category).

I decided to study international marketing in Leeds, which is one of the best universities and locations to focus on studies.

Alongside classes, the University of Leeds and the Business School offer various opportunities to enhance your skillset. As for business skills, there is a project called “Global Industry Project” which is a 3-week authentic industry project designed to build your global mindset and prepare you for the workplace through real business challenges with international industry partners. On top of that, you also have an opportunity to participate in “International Marketing Study Tour” which you can gain advanced knowledge regarding marketing and branding under the collaboration of other European business school and local companies. As for language skill, you can find a language partner via Language Zone homepage or join a language exchange group sesion organized by them.

University of Leeds and the Business School offer various opportunities to enhance your skillset

In terms of expanding your network, I highly recommend to join societies associated with your interests or hobbies. I’ve joined Leeds University Business Society, Women’s in Leadership Society, and since I am fond of coffee, I decided to join Coffee Society as well. Leeds University Union (LUU) has over 300 societies, there are clubs of various types that can help you meet new friends.

Between my classes, I love to spend my time mainly in top floor of Edward Boyle library, which is exclusively for postgraduate students. In my spare time, I love to swim and I found the swimming pool at our university’s gym - The Edge is superb! As a big fan of coffee, I really recommend visiting some really nice cafes such as North Star Coffee, Kapow Coffee, or Raw Coffee! (I’m still exploring more!)

Unlike most of the international postgraduate students, I rent our flat with my partner by ourselves near the train station. You don’t have to worry too much about the accommodation since Leeds University will offer it unless you apply by the certain due date, but if you are interested renting by yourself, I can share my experience on that as well!

Ever since I’ve moved in the city, each unique student experience constantly reminded me of how lucky I am to experience such a rich academic and cultural life here at the University of Leeds and I am excited to share my tips or answer any questions you might have. Do reach out to me and I am more than happy to help! You can message me on Unibuddy or email me at saki-link@leeds.ac.uk.