From Lagos banking halls to Bradford lecture theatres: how passion drives me

Hi, I’m Victory, a postgraduate student at the University of Bradford.

Before I came to Bradford, I worked in the banking sector in the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria. The experiences and challenges of corporate life were quite enjoyable, but deep down, I was passionate about something more human-centric: people, performance and purpose.

Hence, my passion for human resources stirred up, I had to take a leap of faith in 2024. I left my comfort zone to pursue a Master’s degree in the UK. Today, I am proud of my journey, as I am fulfilling a dream that I once thought was out of reach.

Why the University of Bradford?

When I was checking out various universities in the UK, I wanted one that would aid in fuelling my passion while providing practical knowledge.

The University of Bradford immediately stood out, especially with its dual certification. I could do my Master's in MSc Human Resource Management and gain a prestigious CIPD certification at the same time. It was ideal for me as it offered both academic depth and industry credibility. It would prepare me not just to graduate, but also to gain a competitive advantage in the human resource industry.

Beyond the academics, I was also looking for a city that was affordable to live in. Bradford turned out to be exactly that, which is a huge plus for international students.

Educational settings one can fully harness

Bradford offers one of the most pleasant academic learning atmospheres. Its peaceful and modern campus is designed to facilitate focused study.

There are plenty of quiet areas, such as the library, which is intellectually stimulating, a technology-enabled classroom, and group study rooms. Whether you need a space to collaborate and study with peers or you need a silent space to concentrate, the University has all the necessary facilities.

Aside from the beautifully designed campus, the lecturers are incredible and experts in their fields. This is where the University shines the most, which is noteworthy. They do not just teach, they inspire. They bring theory to life using real-world case studies, guest speakers, and interactive discussions. Their doors are always open, and they’re invested in student success.

Here, I have never felt like 'just a number'. Everyone, including students, is treated with respect, and the support is top-notch.

Residing in Bradford: the UK's City of Culture 2025

Bradford won a prestigious award – UK City of Culture 2025. As a student, I am thrilled to experience all its many events and celebrations firsthand.

The city is experiencing rapid growth, and the energy is intense. From hosting art exhibitions to music festivals, community projects and celebrations, to cultural threads to honour the rich tapestry of the city, it’s indeed an experience for me.

What does the city of Bradford have to offer?

As mentioned earlier, its best value for me is the city's affordability. The cost of student accommodation, food, transportation, and even entertainment is considerably lower compared to other regions in the UK. This is a great win for me, allowing me to navigate my personal budget without stress while being able to have a range of activities to enjoy, like visiting Lister Park and relaxing at City Park.

From passion to purpose and beyond

Reflecting on my journey, what felt like a leap into the unknown is beginning to make valid sense. That’s because the University of Bradford made it easier to cope by not only providing a first-class education but also a friendly environment that focuses on helping me grow every single day.

If you're looking to study abroad, consider the University of Bradford, as it serves as a testament to how the right environment can effortlessly enable you to unlock your potential.

You’ve made the decision. Now make it extraordinary.

What if you turned your dreams into reality?

Postgraduate study at Bradford can help you take that leap.