I always wanted a global atmosphere to expand my horizons, and I got exactly that at the ÃÛÌÒTV. I met people from all walks of life, from all over the world, and made some lifelong friends and connections.
The meetings and communications I had with Southampton's international student relations team were very positive and friendly. I spent a lot of time researching the course I wanted to do and chose Southampton as it is a global university and part of the Russell Group.
The resources the University offered were limitless, and really helpful. This included the Students' Union, the careers office and signing up to study a different language.
Life as an international student during a global pandemic
Relocating to a different country and becoming a student again, was daunting but I never felt out of place at Southampton. I was really anxious about settling into my new life because I'd been working for 4 years before I took a break to do my masters.
I was in a new country, away from home and family, and building a new career path. The pandemic made it even more worrying as everything seemed so uncertain and work opportunities seemed so scarce.
The inclusive atmosphere at Southampton helped settle my nerves. I felt welcome from the minute I stepped onto the campus. I also thoroughly enjoyed experiencing British culture and one of my biggest supports was Friends International. This is a Christian charity for international students, that organised several events for international students on campus.
To be able to set up a new life in a different country, away from home, to be out of my comfort zone, and to still complete my academic journey, with a distinction, in a global pandemic, helped me believe much more strongly in my capabilities to overcome challenges.
Securing a successful career
I thoroughly enjoyed my MA Luxury Brand Management course at the University and I really wanted to work in luxury. I wanted to continue building on my skills and my masters field of study.
We took a luxury trip to London where we interacted with quintessential British luxury brands. We then had the opportunity to work with them on a live consultancy project.
My time at Southampton was extremely fulfilling and an incredible learning opportunity. I graduated right in the middle of the pandemic, and it was quite hard to get a good work opportunity.
I briefly worked as a Senior business development manager for an edtech start-up and then my patience paid off when I landed my current role. Securing my current role at Quintessentially India was my biggest professional success.
Bhavna’s top tips
- One of the wisest words of advice I received was that life begins where your comfort zone ends.
- Believe in your abilities and consistently put in the hard work to help you weather tough times and storms.
- Be patient and positive; and look at every challenge as a learning opportunity to help you overcome any challenge.
