The reputation really stood out to me
Doing a Masters had been on my mind for years, and it wasn’t a decision I took lightly. What really stood out was the University’s repution for transport studies. The Institute for Transport Studies (ITS) is the UK’s leading department for transport teaching and research.
I was interested in learning more about transport modelling for public transportation, and at the time Leeds was planning its first tram route, so I was excited to study somewhere where transport change was actually happening.
Learning experiences exceeded my expectations
The course exceeded my expectations from the moment I started. The structure, delivery and teaching all perfectly matched what I wanted.
The passion and knowledge of the professor made it so engaging. It completely changed how I thought about my career and helped shape what I wanted to do next.
There was a good balance between lectures, hands on training and real-world application. The highlight of the course was a trip to the Netherlands and Belgium to apply what we’d learned. Travelling and bonding with classmates was a great way to end the year.
I was learning with people from all over the world
One of my favourite things about ITS was the diversity, both in the areas of study and the cultural backgrounds of the lecturers, researchers and students.
With classmates from all over the world, we had lots of different perspectives and I learned a lot from their experiences.
Support from the University helped me get hired
Shortly after I completed my course, I received a job offer in the exact area where I wanted to work.
The programme gave me the foundation and confidence I needed to go for this role.
It wasn’t just about the academics. I was also a School Representative and I joined the Link to Leeds team, which helped build my confidence and strengthen my CV.
The Careers Service was brilliant. I used their CV checking service and their one-to-one sessions to help prepare for interviews. I even borrowed an outfit for an interview from their clothing collection, which was a fantastic service.
Leeds is full of life
I’m from Mexico City, which is a very big city. I wasn’t sure if Leeds would feel big enough for me, but I quickly realised it was perfect. I found it walkable, friendly and full of life.
I lived in St Mark’s Residence, close to campus and with my own bathroom and shared kitchen. The short commute meant I got to spend lots of time on campus. I also rented a bike from the Bike Hub for £22 for three months. It made it easy to get around and stay active.
There’s so much to experience
Despite the intensity of a Masters, I made time for activities. I tried salsa, volleyball, rowing and kayaking. The Edge gym was amazing and free in the mornings if you live in University accommodation.
If I could give one piece advice to other students, it would be to get involved. There’s so much to try and those experiences make your time at Leeds even more valuable.