Sandeep Achanta

Why I chose Loughborough University London

Several factors influenced my decision to pursue postgraduate studies at Loughborough University London. The campus's proximity to London offered great networking opportunities, and the academic staff's strong credentials and research interests were also key considerations. Additionally, the Service Design Innovation course included essential modules, such as business models and organisational design, that matched my professional interests.

My overall academic experience

I had a great academic experience overall. I thoroughly enjoyed the exploratory nature of the master’s programme, which encouraged active learning. The teaching staff were always willing to engage with students, and the university offered numerous opportunities for personal and professional development.

The lectures, emphasis on academic fundamentals, coursework, group projects, and individual research were all incredibly valuable. The diverse methods of engaging with course material kept things fresh and engaging. However, what stood out was the opportunity to work on real-world projects and case studies, which were supported by industry engagement. I also appreciated the chance to interact with alumni and PhD students, as their insights helped me plan my time at university more effectively.

Academic and careers support

The academic support and career expertise provided by the university were very helpful. I particularly benefited from the insightful panels and networking opportunities organised by the Future Space team. Workshops and seminars were also relevant and beneficial. Initially, I found it challenging to navigate the career services, but after meeting with team members individually, I was able to better understand how to make use of their support for my career goals.

Beyond the course itself, the highlights of my time at Loughborough included the micro internships, collaborative projects, and the collaborative dissertation. These opportunities allowed me to work with and network with external organisations, which not only helped me build career skills and gain confidence but also added invaluable experience to my CV. Additionally, I secured and completed a few internships independently, which provided insight into UK work culture and allowed me to apply the skills I developed during my studies.

My time at Loughborough University London helped lay a strong foundation for my professional journey. While I initially struggled with the transition to the fast pace and high demands of work, my solid academic grounding allowed me to contribute effectively to my team.