Tell us a bit about yourself, and what course you are studying?

My name is Joanna Varghese, and I studied BSc Management with Finance at Warwick Business School. Coming to university helped me discover a strong interest in analytics, which led me to take modules in data and business analytics as part of my degree. I plan to pursue a master’s in this field in the near future. Outside of academics, I enjoy singing and music production, both of which are self-taught.

What attracted you to WBS? Why did you choose to study here?

I was drawn to WBS because of its strong reputation for academic excellence and its industry-focused approach to teaching. The Management course is known for being flexible, which was important to me since I wasn't entirely sure which business path I wanted to follow. The opportunity to explore different areas while being supported by world-class faculty really stood out to me.

What is the best thing about your degree? 

One of the best parts of my degree was how closely the content was tied to real-world business applications. I especially enjoyed modules that allowed us to interact with industry professionals and apply our knowledge through group projects and practical tasks. These experiences made learning more meaningful and engaging.

How have you found having a personal tutor?

Having a consistent personal tutor was incredibly helpful, especially during my first few weeks at university. She offered guidance and support whenever I needed it and acted as a reliable point of contact throughout my degree. That continuity really made a difference in helping me settle in and stay on track.

What has inspired you most throughout your studies?

My peers were a big source of inspiration. WBS brings together students from diverse cultures and backgrounds, and I found it really motivating to work with such talented individuals. Being surrounded by so much ambition and drive pushed me to perform better and grow personally and academically.

What sort of support have you received from the careers team? How has that helped you?

The CareersPlus team were very helpful in preparing me for job applications. I received support with CV reviews, interview prep, and understanding how to approach assessment centres. Their resources and one-on-one appointments really boosted my confidence during internship applications.

Have you taken part in any projects, internships or work experience so far while being a student at WBS?

Yes, I completed internships during both summers of my degree in Dubai. I worked as a Carbon Credit Analyst Intern and later as a Business Intelligence Intern. My WBS analytics modules sparked my interest in data and equipped me with skills like being comfortable working with large datasets, which directly helped me perform well and contribute meaningfully during my internships.

Are you a member of any SU clubs or societies? What benefits did you get from that?

I was involved in societies like Warwick Creatives and Brown Space, which gave me a great sense of community, especially within the South Asian student network on campus. I also got the chance to showcase my singing at their open mics and socials.

What do you aim to do once you graduate?

After graduating, I plan to gain more work experience for a year and then pursue a Master’s in Business and Analytics in London. For now, I’m focusing on recharging and reflecting before taking the next step.

Do you feel that your degree is preparing you for your next steps?

Absolutely. The course gave me exposure to real-world business challenges, strong analytical foundations, and employable skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. I feel confident stepping into the next stage of my career thanks to what I’ve learned at WBS.

What top tip would you give to prospective undergraduate students who are deciding if WBS is the right place for them?

Consider the incredible opportunities and connections that come with studying at a top-tier business school like WBS. Review the course structure and modules to see how they align with your interests and future goals. It’s a great place to explore and grow.

What top tip would you give to a student who is about to start at WBS?

Make the most of every opportunity, whether it's attending career fairs, joining societies, or speaking to your lecturers and tutors. Even if you’re unsure of what you want to do, WBS offers the resources and support to help you figure it out. I started uncertain about my path, but WBS helped me on my journey to discover my passion and direction.