Hurria Fatima

My name is Hurria Fatima, an alumna of the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), London Campus. Originally from Pakistan, I embarked on my academic journey at UWS in May 2023 and successfully completed my MSc in Project Management in September 2024.

My time at the UWS London Campus was filled with opportunities for learning, growth and personal development. The support and guidance I received from my dedicated, knowledgeable, and supportive professors instilled in me strong confidence during my job hunt in UK job market.

Beyond academics, UWS offered also vibrant socialization opportunities and one of the best aspects of the London Campus was the TEG Club. Its events provided an excellent platform for socializing with peers, nurturing meaningful connections, and enhancing the overall campus experience.

One of my fondest memories at UWS London Campus is my very first day when I attended a TEG Club event and met my friends for the first time. What made it so special was how effortlessly we connected as if we had known each other forever. Everyone around us assumed we had been friends for years, but in reality, we had just met that day! The instant bond we formed set the tone for an incredible university experience. Soon after, we created a study group, collaborated on projects, and supported each other throughout our academic journey. That day wasn’t just the beginning of my university life it was the start of lifelong friendships and unforgettable experiences.

When I moved to the UK, I brought with me over six years of experience as a PCB Design Engineer. However, I aspired to transition into leadership roles, which required strengthening my project management skills. This motivated me to pursue further learning and refine my approach to the competitive UK job market.

One of my first challenges was adapting my resume to align with UK hiring standards, as the competition here was much stronger compared to my home country. Within a week of arriving, I proactively set up accounts on job platforms like Indeed, CV Library, and Glassdoor, while also updating my LinkedIn status to ‘Open to Work’ to increase my visibility to recruiters.

A key strategy that significantly boosted my job search was carefully analyzing job descriptions and tailoring my CV for each application. I ensured that my resume included relevant keywords from the job postings, making it more likely to get noticed by applicant tracking systems and recruiters. This approach proved highly effective, as I started receiving interview calls within just two weeks of my job hunt.

Feeling truly humbled to say that I had secured a job as a PCB Design Engineer at Allen & Heath in July 2023, while I was still in my first trimester of MSc Project Management. What set me apart in the competitive job market was my confidence and extensive experience of six years.

Indeed, securing a job in the first trimester of my MSc was a significant milestone, but it also brought a tough decision whether to continue my studies or focus entirely on my new role, as my workplace was outside London. However, my primary reason for coming to the UK was to pursue my MSc at UWS, and I was determined not to give up on that goal.

After seeking guidance from my Programme Leader, support from my professors, and advice from my family, I made the decision to continue my MSc while working. Managing both commitments was undoubtedly challenging, I often had to catch early morning trains or flights to attend classes and return the same day, all while balancing coursework and office responsibilities.

Despite the difficulties, it turned out to be the best decision I ever made. I enjoyed the journey of studying and working simultaneously, and the support I received from both my university and my workplace made all the difference. My professors were flexible with my occasional late arrivals, while my manager, HR team, and colleagues were incredibly accommodating, allowing me time off when needed for assignments or travel. This experience reinforced my belief in perseverance and time management, and I am truly grateful for the support system that made it possible.

My MSc in Project Management at UWS London Campus greatly contributed to my career growth. The programme refined my project management skills and boosted my confidence in the competitive job market of UK. The industry-focused curriculum, hands-on learning, and constant support from my professors helped me develop a strong professional foundation.

One of the most valuable aspects of studying at the London Campus was the diverse student community. Engaging with peers from different cultural and professional backgrounds broadened my perspective, improved my teamwork and communication skills. These interactions prepared me for the dynamic work environment in the UK. Indeed, choosing UWS was one of the best decisions I made, as it equipped me with the skills and confidence to excel in project management and leadership roles.