Alkestid
BSc (Hons) Human Resource Management
Meet Alkestid
- Believes his journey at Bradford has been one of the best things in his life
- Wanted to study a business degree and was attracted to Bradford by the 'triple-crown' accreditation
- Has gained experience working in Istanbul and on a study programme in Bahrain
Choosing a university
"When I first decided to move to the UK, I didn't really know what I wanted to do but I just knew that I had to discover it by taking the initial steps to try new things and get out of my comfort zone. I then realised that I wanted to study at university, not only for a degree which would provide me with opportunities to get a job, but because university is much more than a degree. It is a place where you discover more about yourself and it gives you opportunities to develop your personality and skillset.
"I strongly believe that my journey as a student at the University of Bradford has been one of the best things in my life. The University of Bradford was my first and only choice and I did not want to apply to any other universities. I had done my research and I knew about the reputation of the University and my best friend was studying here and her feedback was good. Other factors that impacted my choice were that the University is located right in the city centre and is close to Leeds and Manchester."
Choosing Human Resource Management
"I chose to study Human Resource Management after my mentor advised me and suggested I do research about it. At first, I was not sure what I really wanted to study and in which area I could have more chances to thrive. I knew that I wanted to study a business degree and the School of Management has the 'triple-crown' accreditation which impacted my decision.
"Human Resource Management is a function within an organisation concentrated on managing and directing people who work within it. It also deals with issues related to performance management, safety, wellness, organisational development, employee motivation and training. It plays a strategic role in all organisations and can contribute greatly to the overall organisational direction and accomplishment of goals. I have been always been the 'person of the people', motivating the people around me and trying to help them get the best version of themselves. All of these things are reasons why I chose to study Human Resource Management and as time is passing, I am so grateful for my decision."
Different opportunities
"When I was in second year, I was aware of different opportunities that were available and the support that Career and Employability Services offer to students.
"In February, I started applying to different organisations around the world and my initial plan was to undertake a two-month internship during the summer. I was accepted by a few organisations and I got offers so I had to decide which was the best for me.
"Even during the pandemic, I was lucky to get the chance to work for a Non-Government Organisation in Istanbul from July to September. My experience of completing a Marketing & Fundraising internship has been an eye-opener of how an NGO operates, and working and living in Istanbul has equipped me with skills and knowledge that I am able to carry and develop in my university life and as a professional who is looking to progress in my future endeavours."
Planning my future
"I have felt so passionate and motivated during the past two years as a student at the University of Bradford that I have decided to apply for a Master's degree at the University, as I feel it is the right institution to develop further and to accomplish my goals.
"A Master's degree will be an advantage for my future career and a unique experience which I will carry for the rest of my life. Other goals that I have are to get different work experiences and to have a positive impact in others people's lives.
"The course has been helpful from day one. My lecturers and tutors have supported me whenever I have needed it and also have been willing to advise me and show me how to achieve my goals. I am so thankful for having the chance to learn from the best in the subject.
"Another brilliant experience that my course offered was the chance to apply for a week abroad on the 'Entrepreneurs Across Borders' programme. I was selected to travel to Bahrain where two more universities participated, one from France and one from Saudi Arabia. The trip was fully funded and we had the opportunity to visit different organisations in Manama and to participate in lectures at Ahlia University."
My favourite thing about studying at Bradford is the nature around the city. Yorkshire is such a beautiful place and very affordable. Bradford is a multicultural and diverse city - once you give it a chance you will love it. I live in the city centre which means I walk to university and because I also work in the city centre, everything is so close.
My favourite place
"My favourite facility in the University is the library. I have spent so much time there.
"It is open 24/7 and I am the type of student that cannot study at home because it is noisy. Also, I do not have the proper equipment, so the library is my favourite place as I can find all the resources and help that I need for everything."
Advice for others
"To any students that are thinking of studying Human Resource Management, I would say that as long as you put your energy and effort into the course, you will definitely love it.
"It offers so many different opportunities within all sectors and industries, not only in the UK, but all around the world. As a human resource manager, you will have to get the best out of your colleagues and motivate others and at the same time you will have to be self-motivated and well organised. If you think you are the 'person of the people' and you like challenges, then Human Resource Management is probably the right course for you."