Aya Jaffal
- Course: MSc International Business Management
- Year of study: 2023/2024
- Country: Lebanon
What is/was your overall experience as an international student studying at UEL?
My name is Aya Jaffal, a Lebanese national and recent International Business Management graduate from the University of East London. UEL is known for being a careers-first university due to the significant continuous efforts it makes to stay up to date with a highly changing and demanding market. At UEL, the opportunities are truly valuable – all the master's International Business Management (IBM) courses are tailored to market requirements for future careers. My time at the Business Advice Centre (BAC) was especially beneficial.
This experience allowed me to apply my knowledge in a real-world setting for the first time. It also allowed me to unleash my creativity in planning and presenting effective strategies for building the businesses. Both business owners expressed great satisfaction with the outcome, affirming their intention to implement the proposed plan to address their challenges. This voluntary opportunity, provided by UEL, significantly enhanced my self-assurance and equipped me for the post-graduation job market. I am immensely grateful to UEL for their support in my professional development journey.
UEL's commitment to providing valuable opportunities for skill enhancement is truly commendable. They ensure that all staff and students, regardless of financial constraints, have access to essential market-needed skills. This is what I admire most about UEL—they never settle for the status quo but continuously strive to offer better opportunities for students’ staff and beyond. UEL's commitment to staying ahead of the curve is truly inspiring and sets a high standard for educational institutions everywhere.
What are your plans after graduation?
Following my graduation my goal is to secure long-term employment that offers visa sponsorship, allowing me to remain in London—the city that has captured my heart and where I believe my untapped potential can flourish. I continue to serve as an ICC agent in the External Relations department, focusing on the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) and Central Asia regions. I actively participate in campus tours for international guests and applicants, providing guided tours and detailed explanations about UEL facilities.
What advice would you give to prospective international students planning to study in the UK (with UEL)?
For prospective international students considering studying in the UK at UEL, thorough research is essential. Explore the courses offered, using resources such as the UEL website and virtual tours to gain insight into the University's offerings. Pay close attention to the course modules to ensure they align with your academic and career goals, minimising the risk of unexpected surprises later. Remember, as an international student, you have made significant investments and sacrifices to be in the UK, it is essential to make the best use of your time and resources to ensure a successful academic journey and a bright future ahead.
UEL's accommodation services and international student support network are valuable resources for guidance in practical aspects when studying abroad, including accommodation, living expenses, and cultural adaptation. Additionally, it is essential to open a UK bank account upon arrival in the UK.
Many essential services operate on a cashless basis, which can pose challenges for new students. Living expenses tend to be higher and more challenging for international students, which makes early financial planning crucial for a smoother transition. Being a foreigner in the UK can be challenging, and finding help may not always be easy.
However, UEL is there for you every step of the way. With specialised teams ready to assist, all you must do is knock on their door, and they will guide you through to the very end, offering the support you need to excel in both academic life and your career journey.