Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Why I chose to study a master's degree
Hello! My name is Zain and I am currently studying for an MA in Sports Development and Management. Deciding to pursue a master’s degree was not an easy choice, but for me, it was a step that aligned perfectly with my personal and professional aspirations. Several key reasons motivated me to embark on this journey, and I hope sharing them will help others considering postgraduate study!
Advancing my career and deepening my expertise
One of the main reasons I decided to pursue a master’s degree was to enhance my career prospects and deepen my expertise within my field. I believe that in today’s competitive job market, holding a postgraduate qualification provides a distinct advantage, unlocking access to better career opportunities and higher earning potential. While my BSc (Hons) in Sports Coaching laid a strong foundation, I recognised that there was so much more to explore beyond the coaching aspect of sports. A master’s offers the opportunity to delve into areas that truly interest me, such as sports development, enabling me to gain a more comprehensive understanding of my field and become an expert in my chosen area. The combination of academic growth, personal development, and professional advancement made pursuing a master’s degree a clear and natural step for me.
Changing career path and personal growth
For a lot of people, myself included, a master’s degree is a way to switch gears and try something new. I saw it as a chance to gain knowledge and qualifications in a field I’m really passionate about. It was also about personal growth. Taking on an advanced degree is no small feat — it takes commitment, perseverance, and flexibility, especially when you're juggling sports, placements, work, and the hands-on nature of the degree.
I wanted to challenge myself, step out of my comfort zone, and show that I could handle this demanding but rewarding experience. It’s not just about grades — it’s about building resilience, boosting confidence, and gaining a bigger perspective on life. I’m glad I made this decision, as it’s already opened up a lot of job opportunities for this summer!
Passion for learning, networking, and opportunities
I’ve always enjoyed learning and pushing myself. A master’s degree was a chance to deepen my critical thinking, research, and problem-solving skills. It was also a great opportunity to meet people who share similar interests — they span from fellow students, industry professionals, and lecturers. I think that building a strong network is key for opening doors to future career opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship. Interacting with a diverse group of people also lets me gain new perspectives, exchange ideas, and discover career paths I might not have come across otherwise.
Taking your undergraduate degree to the next level
Deciding to pursue a master’s degree was a big choice, but it was definitely the right one. Whether you're looking to advance your career, gain more knowledge, switch fields, or just challenge yourself, postgraduate study can be an incredibly rewarding experience. If you’re thinking about it, my advice is to really think things through, do your research, and most importantly, follow what excites you! It’s not always easy, but the skills, opportunities, and personal growth you gain along the way make it totally worth it.
