Ameen Elwasila: Economics Alumni
Why did you choose to study Economics at LSBU?
I chose to study BSc Economics at LSBU because of its high employability rate, and I was very convinced by some of its alumni members- such as my previous headteacher, who later becomes my mentor/employee had also attended LSBU- who spoke very highly of the university.
Besides this, it is a university that offers a range of practically applicable, thought provoking modules, and whether you are looking for micro or macroeconomic explanations for certain phenomena, the lecturers, were always able to articulately and simply explain these concepts and encouraged their students to think beyond a surface level analysis and delve deeper into these ideas and seeing how they apply to the real world.
Last but not least, it is a vibrant university with a diverse student base, with people from all walks of life, located in the heart of London, which certainly contributed to its attractiveness.
Can you tell us more about the placement or internship opportunities?
LSBU provides its students with ample opportunities to connect with both civil service and private sector jobs in various fields.
LSBU helped me prepare for my post-graduation life in many ways. I often had many talks and discussions with the careers and employment teams, who were very helpful.
How did LSBU help prepare you for your career?
LSBU has been undoubtedly fundamental in helping me prepare for my career with its robust academic rigour and solid support systems that cater to its students. The staff enabled me to ascertain a level of confidence that I was initially lacking and allowed me to harness it, which made me unlock and develop skills I didn’t know I had in my locker. Overall, their positive attitude, attention to detail, and academic know-how, were all defining factors which equipped me with the necessary skills to progress further and demand more from myself.
Can you tell us about the academic support?
The academic support has been second to none. All of my lecturers and administrative staff have been ever so encouraging and supportive. During exam seasons, they often offered additional revision classes, pointed me in the right direction in terms of navigating the correct books, articles and journals to read. One thing that really stood out to me was the their critical approach to particular theories and how they prompted us to view different ideas through different lenses. They were extremely approachable and able to teach difficult concepts with ease and simplicity.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking about studying Economics at LSBU?
I would highly recommend and encourage anyone who is thinking about studying Economics at LSBU to not miss out on such an incredible opportunity. An opportunity where the doors to securing a successful future are without bounds. This is a place where you will definitely learn about many complex ideas, many of which you would’ve never thought or heard of. A place that will test and challenge your critical thinking and above all, it is a place where you will gain the necessary skills, experience and self-development that will allow you to flourish in the real world.
Can you tell us what you're doing now you've graduated?
I am currently pursuing a MSc at The London School of Economics and Political Science in Development Management (Political Economy), where I am simultaneously part of a consulting group that is directly working with the Islamic Development Bank to assist them with identifying some of the underlying or potentially unidentified reasons for the successes and failures of MSMEs in some of the least developed countries in the world.
All of this would not have been possible without the exceptional academic prowess that I gained and developed whilst being an Economics student at LSBU, and with the help of its excellent facilities and staff at the LSBU Business School.