The Aston University graduate working on digital transformation solutions
Krina Shah chose to study BSc (Hons) Economics and Politics at Aston University due to the interdisciplinary nature of the joint honours course, and the fact she could complete a compulsory placement year.
Krina is now on a consulting graduate scheme at Atos, an information technology service and consulting company, utilising the skills gained during her time at Aston University.
Why did you choose Aston University?
I chose Aston University as it had a great selection of modules for the joint honours Economics and Politics course. These subjects are interdisciplinary by nature, so it was great to see options which blended well together.
Optional modules in second and final year meant I could focus on areas I had greater interest in or aligned better to my future career path.
Beyond this, the University's aim to encourage students to prioritise personal development alongside immersion in our academic studies fitted my aims for higher education. There were lots of societies and networks to get involved in which was ideal for pursuing hobbies and building friendships.
What is special about Aston University?
The value added on top of traditional higher education makes Aston University special.
The compulsory placement year pushes you outside of your comfort zone and was one of my favourite parts of the degree.
We were encouraged to join societies, undertake voluntary work, experience paid employment and also improve our life skills. The library at Aston University hosted sessions which took a step back from the content of our lectures, and provided sessions on maths and research skills. The campus is tightly knit and there was a great emphasis on making friends and developing networks.
What did you enjoy about your course?
My favourite part about studying Economics and Politics at Aston University was the strong focus on real world application and current research. This style of teaching prompted original questions and discussions which were interesting to take away and research.
One module tasked us with researching the supermarket industry, presenting these case studies in front of our peers and engaging in debates that were in the news. These activities, in addition to the typical exams, ensured we developed skills such as research and verbal presentation alongside fundamental content. We studied theories around rising interest rates and tax whilst always being encouraged to reflect on how this impacted our understanding of current affairs and the world around us.
I enjoyed the variety of teaching and emphasis on connecting core concepts to everyday life.
Were you a member of any clubs or societies?
I joined the Aston Women In Business Society as it was a brilliant society with very inspirational female leads. It was a space which encouraged students from all different degree types to make friends, network, upskill and explore careers together.
I also joined the Aston Hindu Society in the capacity of a charity coordinator, this gave me a chance to give back to the local community, learn more about my culture and make friends.
What did you like about living in Birmingham?
Birmingham has a great diversity of people, activities and opportunities so was an ideal place to live and study. Aston University's campus is located right in the city centre with access to all amenities, space to focus on wellness and a chance to embrace the culture of the city.
What are you doing now you have graduated from Aston University?
I am currently on the consulting graduate scheme at Atos focusing on digital transformation solutions. In my present rotation, I am a business analyst for a client that manages commercial properties.
One solution I am working on is rolling out an app which allows property surveyors to capture information from inspections on a single platform. I am responsible for calculating the efficiency benefits of the solution, as well as proposing new business strategies such as the use of in-app analytics functions to change reporting processes.
Another solution I am working on is a PowerApp and PowerBi tool enabling easier financial forecasting of rental yields at each property. I am learning how technology can be used and implemented successfully to solve real world problems, as well as gaining an insight into the retail, transport and property industry.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in studying at Aston University?
My advice to anyone interested in studying Economics and Politics or any other degree at Aston Business School would be to utilise the opportunity to complete a professional placement year. This process really helps to start thinking about how the subject you enjoy studying at university could be used in the real world.
Any type of work experience is valuable and will be a great way to familiarise yourself with current recruitment processes. It was also the best time to improve skills such as delivering presentations, speaking to clients, and working as a team.
"During my placement year, I learned a lot about my strengths, weaknesses, and what type of career I could be passionate about. It gave me a clearer direction and more confidence when applying to graduate jobs."
