Shania Low-Thion

Hi and warm welcome. I’m Shania and I come from the beautiful Islands of the Seychelles!

I am currently pursuing an MSc in Global Strategy and Innovation Management at the University of Leeds Business School. This special opportunity has been supported by Chevening, a fully funded Scholarship from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office.

I started my academic journey in the UK with my undergraduate degree in Accounting and Finance at the University of Birmingham. Having obtained a broad knowledge in this field, it was time to build my professional knowledge in strategy and innovation in order to drive and support sustainable strategic innovation in my home country.

Its vast learning and teaching structures provides a combined learning experience important for developing my critical thinking skills, problem solving and bring me up to pace with the new emerging technologies.

Whilst conducting my personal research, University of Leeds stand out the most to me notably for its outstanding professional development support. Its vast learning and teaching structures provides a combined learning experience important for developing my critical thinking skills, problem solving and bring me up to pace with the new emerging technologies. I was thrilled that during my first two months at the university, the industry connections made available to postgraduate gave me the opportunity to signed up for the Global Industry Programme where working with real clients will enhance my professional development and consultancy skills. Another is the A4S International case competition an opportunity to develop my problem-solving skills by helping business executives from leading companies solve some of their challenges targeting sustainability and nature. Also, a one-week International Study Tour can open my door in gaining further insights into specific field of study in one of Europe leading economy.

One thing I value about the University of Leeds is their dedication to cultivating an inclusive global environment, creating a warm community spirit for us international students. The Residence Life programme for instance, an amazing team dedicated to making our Welcome Week and life at Leeds so engaging, organises amazing trips weekly which helps us as international student explore the region in a very organised manner. As someone who loves to travel and explore historical sites, I got the opportunity to spend a beautiful day with my flat mates in Scarborough, a small seaside town in North Yorkshire.

The community spirits also extends to the University’s accommodation. Arriving at Carlton Hill, I was warmly welcome by the cosy atmosphere and friendly staff. The residence provides various facilities such as onsite gym, Edge Premium membership alongside its vibrant lounging area, games space and a dedicated group study room. I have the pleasure of sharing my flat with five wonderful international students and thanks to the lovely team, regular social events such as free BBQs, brunch, and game nights allow us to easily interact and meet new residents. On campus, the Leeds University Union organises various events which provides the opportunity to further engage in new interest from a variety choice of 350+ clubs and societies.

The short walking distance of the city centre from the University was very convenient. It made it easy for me to quickly walk to the city centre during my lecture breaks rather than waiting until the weekends. I enjoy discovering new spots where I could grab a warm tea/coffee during the cold weather.

It was refreshing to see that my professors were from various international backgrounds which it quite important as international students to see that we have academic professionals who are able to connect with us and be patient whilst adapting to the new learning environment.

What I was most anxious about was the interactions I would have with my professors and classmates. It was refreshing to see that my professors were from various international backgrounds which it quite important as international students to see that we have academic professionals who are able to connect with us and be patient whilst adapting to the new learning environment. I was even more grateful for the amazing Global Strategy and Innovation Management team, a group of kind, caring and friendly classmates which has truly made me feel at home.

Drawing from my personal experience, making the most of every opportunity available has truly allowed me to have a well-balanced university life, a good mix of industry insight and self-development whilst enjoying the vibrant, supportive, and active university life.

It will be my pleasure to share more of my experience with you, so if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out via email [email protected] or my Unibuddy profile.