James Larbi

Why I chose Loughborough University London

The international reputation of Loughborough London, its focus on cutting-edge research, its student employability ratings, as well as the strategic location in the heart of Here East and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park enclave, were my top reasons for choosing Loughborough. Also, being awarded the Global Impact Scholarship, a full-tuition scholarship awarded to only 20 out of over 700 applicants in 2025, was a massive factor that allowed me to hop on a plane from Accra to London. My Loughborough journey wouldn't be complete without acknowledging this scholarship, and I was privileged to celebrate its impact at the 'Loughborough Scholars' night alongside alumni, scholarship holders, the Provost, and the Vice President.

Aspects of my course I enjoyed

I’ve particularly enjoyed the block teaching system, where we get to focus learning one module at a time, allowing for the utmost concentration and appreciation for the subject. I’ve also found the diverse modes of assessment, whether exams, essays, or group presentations, to name a few, incredibly helpful, giving everyone the opportunity to put their best foot forward.

Beyond the standard curriculum, my dissertation was a major highlight that showcased my ability to apply learned concepts. Titled "Virtual Style, Real Connection," it explored the role of AI-Driven Augmented Reality in shaping consumer behaviour among Gen Z in the UK Fashion Retail Sector. My supervisor was incredibly helpful, and under their expert guidance and invaluable feedback, I refined my analysis and achieved a distinction.

Another fantastic academic experience was a collaborative project where my team developed an innovative Augmented Reality (AR) solution aimed at enhancing community engagement within the London Stadium. We presented this to a panel of industry experts and received valuable feedback that sharpened our understanding of real-world tech applications. Moreover, I had a delightful time during the Grand Challenges module, where my team and I tackled the Grand Challenge of Quality Education, leading to our proposed solution of deploying an AI-based teacher training application to help bridge the gap of quality education in the ECOWAS region. 

Academic and careers support

The academic support was particularly helpful. Before submissions, you could easily book one-to-one sessions with experienced academic advisors to review assignments and gain access to enriching resources. The Future Space team was incredible! Booking a professional CV review with Dan Robinson gave me actionable feedback on how to position my international experience for the UK market. Through the Future Space Connect programme, I secured a micro-internship with Saint Espresso, where I spent 8 weeks developing creative social media content and comprehensive marketing strategies. This deep-learning experience culminated in a certificate of recognition and a generous bursary that went a long way.

Furthermore, I completed a marketing internship with Mat Zero, an award-winning sustainable tech startup providing portable heated mats. Under the mentorship of Loughborough alumnus Sri Hollema, I developed go-to-market strategies and brand narratives, gaining invaluable insights into sustainable innovation. I also took part in events like the Venture Crawl, LinkedIn workshops, and the Careers Insight Event, where breakout sessions allowed me to receive tailored feedback from experienced alumni.

Highlights of my time at Loughborough University London

Too many to mention! I found a wonderful community and enjoyed engaging with people from different cultures. A fun memory was having a Holi celebration with oriental cuisine after cleaning our kitchen. My course mates and I never missed £5 pizza Wednesdays at Hackney Bridge, and visiting Winter Wonderland was a highlight of the year. My time at Loughborough University London has been transformative. I came seeking academic credentials, but I leave with a comprehensive understanding of my professional self, enriched by diverse experiences and invaluable connections. The Personal Best journey perfectly encapsulated my ethos of learning beyond the classroom, and I have massive appreciation for the Future Space team for helping prepare me to face the professional world with confidence.

Campus facilities and resources

The campus facilities at Loughborough London are excellent. Packed into four floors and centrally located, the state-of-the-art campus provided everything I needed. The library was well-resourced with both digital and physical literature that helped enrich and guide my academic journey. The campus is also open 24/7, which is especially helpful if you’re a night owl like me, allowing me to study on my own terms.

How Loughborough University London has prepared me for my future career

My time at Loughborough gave me the requisite practical experience to elevate my theoretical knowledge. After five years in the digital marketing space working in a creative agency in Ghana, Loughborough provided the perfect challenge to improve my skills and got me up to date with modern technologies and developments in the space. From refining my pitching skills at the London Venture Crawl to executing real-world marketing strategies for Mat Zero and Saint Espresso, I feel incredibly well-positioned for the competitive global job market.