“I worked on a live case study for the Imperial War Museum”: How a Business Professional module inspired Sayra to pursue a placement
Sayra wasn't convinced that a placement was right for her until she worked on a live case study with the Imperial War Museum. Now, she's completing a placement as part of her BA (Hons) Business Management degree. Find out how hands-on learning and real business challenges helped her develop the confidence, skills and experience to take the next step in her career with LSBU.
Tell us about an assessment that felt relevant to the type of work you'll do in your career
One assessment that felt particularly relevant was in the Small Business Management module. We had to choose a real small business, research how it operates, and evaluate its performance. I carried out a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) and a PESTLE analysis to understand the business and its external environment.
I also explored branding by creating a logo and developing a brand identity. Since my long-term goal is to run my own business, I found this assessment incredibly valuable. It taught me the fundamentals of building a business and the strategies SMEs can use to succeed. The experience helped me see myself not just as a student, but as someone capable of running a business in the future.
The LSBU Startups workshops also complemented what I learned in class. Attending those sessions gave me practical insights into how to start a business, avoid common mistakes, and develop a sustainable business idea.
How has this assessment helped prepare you for employment?
By teaching me how to analyse a business, identify problems, and develop practical, evidence-based solutions. It strengthened my ability to think strategically and make informed decisions, which are important skills in any business role.
The assessment also increased my confidence in presenting recommendations and understanding the challenges involved in running a successful company.
Which assessment are you most proud of, and why?
The assessment I am most proud of was the business simulation in my Operations, Logistics and Supply Chain Management module. As part of a team of five, we managed a virtual business over six weeks and competed against other teams in the class. We managed every aspect of a virtual business, from operations to sales.
I really enjoyed the experience because it felt like running a real business. It helped me understand how business decisions affect performance and how different functions work together.
The experience inspired me to take part in the global SimVenture business simulation competition. I was able to apply the knowledge and strategies I had learned during the module, which gave me an even deeper understanding of how businesses operate in a competitive environment. It was one of the most engaging and rewarding learning experiences of my degree.
During my placement year, I applied many of the skills I developed at university.
Which university assessment or project has been most useful in preparing you for work?
In my opinion, several LSBU assessments and projects have helped prepare me for my career. However, the Business Professional module was the most valuable. As part of this module, I worked on a live case study for the Imperial War Museum. I carried out research on the museum, attended a session where one of the museum's employees spoke to our class, and developed a solution to a real business problem.
This assessment helped me develop important skills such as research, critical thinking, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and presenting ideas. The module also taught me how to create a professional CV and cover letter and highlighted the importance of completing a placement year.
Before taking the module, I had no plans to do a placement, but it changed my mind. I switched my course to include a placement year, which gave me valuable industry experience and improved my career prospects after graduation.
Can you give an example of how it reflects what you do (or expect to do) in the workplace?
During my placement year, I applied many of the skills I developed at university. For example, I used research and analytical skills to complete work tasks, communicated professionally with colleagues, and applied critical thinking to solve problems.
The experience of working on a real client project during my studies helped me understand workplace expectations and made it easier to adapt to a professional environment.
Looking back, how well did your course prepare you for employment?
I believe my course prepared me well for employment. The combination of practical assessments, live case studies, and careers support gave me both the technical knowledge and professional skills needed in the workplace.
The placement year was especially valuable because it allowed me to apply what I had learned in a real working environment, gain confidence, and build relevant industry experience before graduating.