Zareen
BSc (Hons) Economics and International Economics
- International student from Bangladesh
- Placement year for the Government Economics Service
- Ambitions to go onto study a Master's and PhD in Economics
Why did you choose the University of Bradford?
My father is actually an Alumni of Peace Studies, he developed close-knit bonds with some of the Bradford community during his time here.
I came to visit before I applied and I got a feeling that it was a friendly community here which was important to me.
I had no experience of ever living alone, I was very dependent on my parents and at that time having that close family feeling at university was a priority. I didn’t want to feel lost in a big campus where I didn’t know anyone.
Why Economics?
I knew I wanted to study Economics when I was first introduced to the subject. I enjoyed debating and I was good at maths, so economics was the perfect blend of the two.
You can argue about current news, politics and pretty much anything through economic theory using real statistics and data to prove your point - I love that. It means that if you did the correct research you could build a strong case for your argument.
Once I knew Economics was for me, I never looked back
Zareen
What's been the best aspect of your course?
Encouragement of individual potential, every student is different and come from different backgrounds with different strengths. I never felt that I had to learn a certain way, the tutors encouraged me to apply for the placement at Government Economics Service which was extremely competitive.
My supervisor always supported my ideas which helped me realise my full potential, allowing me to grow into my own.
Tell us about your placement
I worked for the Government Economics Service in the Department for Work and Pensions in London, having this experience was life changing for me.
It was crazy, I would come out of the station and there was Big Ben and my office was right there! You can't imagine how amazing it is for an international student from Bangladesh to be working in an office in the heart of London every day.
The best thing about the placement was that no one treated me as a student, they invested so much in me. I was responsible for making a performance pack for the Minister which was a big responsibility which helped me learn and grow as an Economist.
What helped you settle into university life?
I made loads of friends, I joined the Debating Team and Bradford Model United Nations Society which helped me meet like-minded people.
I think getting involved in things outside of your studies is a very important part of university life. I have worked a lot during my time here as a Student Ambassador, got involved in charity calling to raise research funds and was a Senior Warden in The Green student accommodation.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying to Bradford?
You will never feel like you left home, Bradford is one of the most multi-cultural, diverse universities I have ever been to.
It is so friendly and has a small community - so it doesn’t feel like you're lost in the crowd.
I don’t think they would have any hard times adjusting because there is so much support.
Describe your time at Bradford in three words
Educational, happy and homely – and I'm sad to be leaving soon, Bradford is my home now.