Zain is a Leeds Beckett graduate who studied BSc Sport Coaching and MA Sport Development & Management. She's has always been passionate about sport and the impact it can have on people's lives, and using sport to create positive change. Here, she tells us about what she enjoyed the most about her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, how being part of the rugby team improved her confidence and leadership skills, and what she's looking forward to about starting her PhD.

Course(s): BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching and MA Sport Development and Management

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you've been doing since you graduated.

The past couple of months have involved expanding my experience, gaining new skills, and preparing myself for the next stage of my career in sport development. I feel much more confident, capable, and ready to progress into a professional role where I can apply everything I've learned academically and practically.

What were the highlights of your course?

The biggest highlight for me was coming from a sport coaching background and being able to look at sport from a completely different point of view. Studying the organisational and business side of sport broadened my understanding of the sector and made my outlook feel much more complete. I really enjoyed learning how all the different elements fit together and contribute to creating effective and meaningful sport development.

How has your experience studying at Leeds Beckett influenced you and your career?

Leeds Beckett has had a huge influence on my academic interests and career direction. My studies gave me confidence in research and community sport practice, and my involvement in university rugby helped shape my resilience and leadership skills. The combination of academic opportunities, placements, and extracurricular sport made me realise the impact that sport can have on communities, which ultimately inspired my decision to pursue a PhD.

What attracted you to study your course at Leeds Beckett University?

I was drawn to Leeds Beckett because of the strong reputation of the Carnegie School of Sport, the practical focus of the modules, and the supportive, friendly campus environment. Leeds is also a great city for sport, which makes it even more appealing. After completing my undergraduate degree here, I took a year out to gain more experience and returning to Leeds Beckett for my master's felt like the natural next step. After attending open days and reconnecting with staff, it was clear it was the right place to continue developing both academically and personally.

Did you enjoy studying your course? What advice would you give someone thinking about studying the same one?

I really enjoyed the course - it challenged me, supported my growth, and gave me opportunities I wouldn't have had elsewhere. My advice to anyone considering it would be to get involved in as much as possible, whether that's student sport, placements, research roles, or networking opportunities. The more you engage, the more you'll get out of the experience.

What's next for you?

Next April, I'll begin my PhD in Intergenerational Practice in Community Sport. I'm excited to explore how sport can improve intergenerational connections and support community wellbeing. Alongside my research, I hope to continue being involved in coaching, outreach, and sport development work. Long-term, I want to combine academic research with practical community projects to help make sport more accessible and inclusive.