Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Stories
Alumni Spotlight: Developing my career further with LBU
International student Martina, from the USA, talks about what brought her to LBU and her reasons as well as experiences studying MA Public Relations and Strategic Communication at Leeds Beckett.
Stories
What were you doing before becoming a postgraduate student?
I was a research assistant at the University of Zagreb. My contract expired and I was running a small events company, then joined the LBU as a PhD student and a GTA [Graduate Teaching Assistant].
What reasons motivated you to consider studying a postgraduate course?
I already had one PhD and was looking for a lectureship but then I saw an ad for a GTA in the PR department and since I've known the works of some scholars there I applied and decided to do another PhD to have an opportunity to work with them and get a foot into UK academia.
Why did you choose to study your postgraduate degree at Leeds Beckett University?
A GTA position and a bursary along with the opportunity to join the department, which I was very well aware off as a young scholar at the time.
What were the challenges or obstacles you had to overcome to become a postgraduate student?
None. I had an excellent experience with applying for a position. There was a change in the panel, which caused a delay but this was communicated to me. Then I had an excellent interview experience with a very friendly panel and later when I joined, the Graduate School was amazing in supporting us right from the induction and then throughout the PhD journey.
How would you describe your experience as a postgraduate student and what was the highlight?
I had a GTA position, which was very valuable not just because of financial reasons (i.e., the highest salary in the sector) but also an opportunity to develop as an academic. I progressed to a lecturer, then senior lecturer, and later a reader so I developed my whole career at LBU and in many ways, my CV and the researcher I am today is largely a result of a massive investment the university made.
How would you describe the University's facilities, teaching staff and employability and support services?
I never complained about anything as there was never a reason to do so.
It was outstanding. LBU is truly a super friendly university and I loved studying and working at the institution.
What role did your fellow students play in your experience at Leeds Beckett?
None, this was just because in my case as I was employed so mainly interacted with other employees.
Did you receive any support from the university, before, during, or after your course, and how did it help you?
Yes, throughout the journey the Graduate School has been amazing. They were always there to help, support and very always very friendly. Once I completed a PhD and started to supervise PhD students, they supported me in that endeavour too.
How has postgraduate study benefitted your career? What impact have you experienced after your course?
It has made me into the researcher I am today. I developed my career at Leeds Beckett and am immensely grateful for all the development opportunities I had. Not only that the university invested in me financially, but I was also always supported morally. In many ways, Leeds Beckett University believed in me right from day one, even when I did not. I would not be where I am had I not come to LBU and I would always recommend the university to prospective students and faculty.
Would you recommend postgraduate study at Leeds Beckett? Please explain.
Yes, absolutely. It is an incredibly supportive and friendly environment. Nobody will treat a student badly for not knowing something or seeking support and the university has an amazing understanding of personal circumstances and will always support students if they end up struggling with anything.
How would you describe your postgraduate experience in five words?
It's more than exactly five but I would say:
AMAZING
SUPPORTIVE
FRIENDLY
VALUE FOR MONEY
BE-BECKETT
What advice would you give to someone considering postgraduate study at Leeds Beckett?
I would just say go for it because it is worth it due to extensive support. On top of that, I now work at a research-intensive university in the US and my PhD degree from Leeds Beckett has been recognised in the US.
