In the last five years, I’ve worked hard, used what I learned, and it’s paid off.
BA (Hons) Business and Management
Rakesh Hala graduated with his BA (Hons) Business and Management degree at the University of Sunderland in London in 2017. Since then, he has become an independent company owner, running his own branch of the Post Office and corner shop.
In the last five years, I’ve worked hard, used what I learned, and it’s paid off.
“I’m in my current role because of my experiences at the University of Sunderland in London. It really is that simple.
As the owner of a small company, I use what I learned in my course every single day. But it’s also about the opportunities the degree gave me.
I had the chance to do a placement year, which meant I could take time out to work for a business and put what I was learning into practice.
As it happened, I chose a Post Office. I worked hard and got on really well with the owner who offered me the chance to join the board of the company. All this eventually led to my own branch.
The placement taught me the practicalities of running a post office. Using the theory, communications and finance skills I was learning at the University as a basis, I worked out how to be a professional, gained legal experience and picked up on-the-job skills.
In a way, I was surprised by how useful the course was when it came to the interview.
I had to put together quite a complex presentation which included both a business and financial plan showing company growth over three years. I learned how to do that during the BA.
When I think about how far I’ve come in the last few years, I’m kind of surprised. I’ve been trying to forge my path during the pandemic, not an easy time for any company.
But in the last five years, I’ve worked hard, used what I learned, and it’s paid off.
I actually started off in another degree in Cyprus. I was doing a course in Hospitality Management but when I came to the UK, rather than carrying on, I wanted to explore my interest in business.
It just goes to show you don’t have to stick to one path in life. Follow your interests and things will work out.
I wanted to study something that gave me knowledge I could apply practically, which tourism would have done. But, for me, I needed to open my options a bit wider.
My idea was to learn something about handling a company, around finance and problem-solving. The BA (Hons) Business Management was the logical choice.
London is a brilliant place to study. It’s the hub of business in the UK and the University of Sunderland in London campus is pretty much perfectly situated in the centre of all that.
Plus, the support you get from all staff, both academics and in the services departments, is unbelievable. They really do go out of their way to help you achieve success.
I think my future is definitely in the post office. I have the bug for it now. I’ve even already started thinking about buying more and creating my own empire.”
Want to follow in Rakesh’s footsteps? Take a look at our Business, Management and Finance courses now.
You can also register your interest or book a personal consultation to find out more. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using #WeAreSunLon10.
Close