Falak Naz

The MSc Project Management programme stood out for its comprehensive curriculum, which promised to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. Before starting, I expected a rigorous academic environment but also hoped for a supportive community to help me navigate life in a new country. The MSc Project Management programme at UWS London was the perfect launchpad for my career. The course was highly hands-on, with modules in risk management and stakeholder engagement forming the foundation of my daily work.

The projects were practical simulations of real industry challenges, and the collaborative environment, combined with supportive lecturers, pushed me to think critically and communicate effectively.

Entering the UK job market as an international student was challenging. I started applying six months before graduation, facing hurdles such as understanding UK-style CVs and navigating the silence of rejection emails. The biggest challenge was translating my international experience for UK employers.

My breakthrough came when I shifted focus from mass applications to building a professional network: attending webinars, connecting on LinkedIn, and prioritising quality over quantity in my applications.

My success resulted from targeted, practical actions. UWS career services were invaluable, helping me refine my CV to highlight achievements in ways that resonated with UK employers. I tailored every application to the specific role and company, researching recent projects and missions to show how I could contribute.

There were moments of self-doubt, especially as a recent graduate navigating a new country. I stayed motivated by keeping a clear vision of my goals and focusing on small daily wins. I approached each “no” as a step closer to the right “yes,” which helped me maintain persistence and confidence. Today, I am thriving as a Project Manager & Westminster Coordinator at the British Regional Transportation Association.

My role involves overseeing key projects in the railway industry and coordinating engagement with stakeholders in Westminster. I’m most proud of contributing to an industry that is vital to the UK’s infrastructure. Looking ahead, I aim to grow within the transportation sector, with a long-term goal of leading major infrastructure projects that improve people’s lives. Reflecting on my journey, my advice to current and prospective UWS London students is: “Your career journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Start early, network tirelessly, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The support at UWS London is there for you, but you have to be proactive in seeking it. Believe in the unique perspective you bring as an international student, and let that confidence shine through in every interview. Your dream role is out there, so keep pushing forward.”

As a student at UWS London, I’ve found it really helpful to treat my studies like a project by using a planner to block out time for lectures, reading, and assignments, since breaking work into smaller tasks with mini deadlines helps avoid last-minute stress. I also make an effort to connect with classmates, as the diverse cohort is a huge resource—forming study groups and sharing perspectives on different topics often means you learn just as much from each other as you do from textbooks.

I’ve also learned that understanding industry expectations can make a real difference, starting with learning the right terminology—UK employers value familiarity with frameworks like PRINCE2, Agile, or Scrum, and mentioning these on your CV or in interviews shows you’re ready to contribute from day one.

Finally, if getting that first role proves challenging, considering volunteering or internships can be a smart move, as offering support to a small business or charity on a project can provide real UK experience and significantly strengthen your CV.