What do you hope to go on and do when you graduate from the University of Leeds?

I’ve always wanted to set aside a year to visit and kayak around the world. I recently attended a talk from an Australian recruitment company for graduates, seeing the world whilst getting paid was a very appealing offer, especially in a time of spiralling costs and increasing student debts.

What skills and attributes do you think you’ve developed as part of your course?

Team work is something that I have found to be essential on my course and a great skill that I have been able to develop. Throughout the year a lot of the assessed work is completed by working with others to produce joint final pieces which has been a great way to learn.

What skills and attributes do you think you’ve developed from co-curricular activities?

Much of my spare time is spent with, and relates to, the canoeing club. Not only has it acted as a platform for my personal ability in the sport, it has also helped me coach and lead others something which has been extremely rewarding. Through my work with the committee management, organisational skills are something that I have gained and that I am sure will benefit me throughout my life. Leeds University also provides many opportunities to cost effectively try out new sports without having to fork out for all the kit. I found this out first hand when I took a 3 week rock climbing course through the Uni sports centre.

How will these skills and attributes help you achieve what you want to do when you graduate?

One of the biggest benefits will be that straight after I finish my degree I will be able to earn a wage through kayaking/rafting or indeed from a job relating to my degree. Despite arguments whether or not University is cost effective by some, I feel that my time at Leeds will have warranted every penny that I put into it.

What has been your proudest moment while studying at Leeds?

Being elected captain of LUU canoeing club was one of my proudest moments. I love the sport and have committed whole heartedly to the club since starting here in Leeds.

How do you think you have benefited from studying at Leeds?

The people you meet at university make all the difference, I’ve met some great people that I know I will stay in touch with for years to come. As my time at Leeds continues I see it setting me up perfectly to both go places and do the things in life I want to, but to set me up with excellent job prospects for a career in the future too.