Khusrav
Why did you choose Exeter?
I chose to study MSc Sports Management at Exeter because I am looking to make a career change. I come from a business management background, working in banks, real estate, and healthcare organisations. I researched a lot of different institutions, and I came across the University of Exeter which I thought was the best fit for myself. The University is part of the Russell Group and has good rankings and accreditations globally. I had a couple of other opportunities in Scotland and other universities in UK and Europe, but Exeter had the edge and I also wanted to be closer to London, so I didn't have to think twice to come and study here. I'm lucky enough to get to experience both the St Luke’s and Streatham Campus as part of this course. They feel very different, but I like them both in their own way.
Why did you choose to study Sports Management?
Sports is a growing market across the globe, particularly in the UAE where I have been working for the past seven years and other GCC countries. It is a business I really want to get into, so I am looking to learn and upskill myself by doing the Masters course. I did my first Masters back in India in Business Management, and I could have done an MBA as well, but it never really enticed me. I felt like a Masters in Sports Management was a great opportunity to learn something different as sport has always been my ‘thing’ and am very passionate about the same, so I want to convert that passion into a profession. I follow a lot of sports like cricket, football, F1 and tennis, and I used to play a lot of sport back in my school and college days. It gives me a real adrenaline rush and I aspire to work for a club or a team, or even for a corporate consultancy or sporting company soon.
What have you enjoyed about the course so far?
I have been working for many years now, so I was completely out of the studying zone. Coming back to studies and studying in a new country with new methods and curriculum is a completely different ball game, so I felt like I had to switch off something and switch into something new. The course has been very enriching so far and the programme director, Lynsey, has been great. The teaching has been extremely good. The atmosphere at the University is beautiful, pure and I have felt very welcomed. When I first started, I did face some hiccups and teething challenges but each time when I went to the information desk at the Forum, everyone answered all my questions.
The course at Exeter is great because it gives you that leadership edge. It teaches you how to be a leader and how to take up leadership roles. Even though you are doing a sporting subject, you could apply the skills and go into any other corporate roles besides sport. Other universities didn’t seem to have such a focus on leadership, so that’s why I picked Exeter.
What is it like living in Exeter?
Exeter is a wonderful small city. It has everything you need, and I feel safe here. I’ve never really been outside of my comfort zone as I have always lived near to my family with my parents and my wife. I always had the thought in my head about whether I would be able to adjust, but I have done so now in just over a month and I feel great. I haven’t explored too much yet, but I’m hoping to do so soon.
What has been your favourite thing so far?
The cohort is nice, engaging and there is a good mix of people from different backgrounds. It has been lovely getting to know everyone. The programme director, Lynsey, is very nice and she has been pushing and guiding us throughout the course. I have no complaints so far. We have already finished one of our presentations which was a beneficial assignment with great learnings to take ahead.
What are your plans for the future?
My first goal is to complete the course and get a good grade. In the meantime, I am trying to apply for jobs. I finish my course in August and I’m hoping to get a good opportunity somewhere in Exeter or London. London is my dream city. I fell in love with it when I visited, and it is the reason I chose to study in the UK.
