Q: Why did you choose AFG College with the University of Aberdeen?
A: Aside from being one of the top universities in the world, one of the main factors that led me to choose AFG College with the University of Aberdeen was the practicality of the programme, which was really important and key for me, especially since I was involved in the business very heavily. I was looking for a practical learning environment as I wanted to develop my business skills. Another reason for choosing AFG College was the location! The University poses a prime location at the heart of the city which was crucial for me.
Q: Is there anything you would like to highlight regarding your experience at AFG College with the University of Aberdeen? Do you have any anecdotes that you would like to share?
A: Yes of course. There were many highlights throughout the years. One of the main highlights was the community spirit on campus. By that I mean, I found it to be a healthy and supportive community. The faculty staff, were all very approachable and understood exactly what I needed to get out of my experience. I truly felt that everyone was a huge support to one another when it came to projects and developing new business plans.
Q: What is the most valuable lesson you have learned during your studies at AFG College with the University of Aberdeen? How do you apply it in your daily life?
A: There are many valuable lessons that I learned, one of the key lessons that I have learned is that you should be as realistic as possible in your overall outlook on life. Sometimes people put goals that are hard to reach. I think setting smart milestones will help you in achieving your overall targets.
Q: Can you please tell us briefly about your current job (functions/company/industry)?
I currently hold multiple positions in different companies. That is because I initiated my business journey at an early age. Some people may be surprised that I hold these positions at such an early stage, but keep in mind that I have entered the business arena and was involved with the companies since I was 14 years old. My father, who is my role model, insisted I gain the required practical real-life experience. It’s really important to have both the theoretical understanding and the practical experience, as they both complement each other.
Q: Do you feel that AFG College with the University of Aberdeen prepared you for the position and associated responsibilities?
A: In the beginning, I chose the University of Aberdeen because of the practicality of the programme taught. The majority of courses were based on real case studies that I was able to learn from when facing similar situations in my day-to-day operations.
Q: Would you want to share any tips or advice with students interested in applying to your company?
A: Of course! I always want to help as many people as possible. However, we need to be careful as every case is different to the other. There’s no harm in listening to advice from other professionals. However, we need to be careful not to change the direction of our goals. My tip is to choose the right tip!
Q: What are the most important things you have learned in your work?
A: One of the main things is that the working environment is not what you always imagine it to be. We always see the bright side of someone reaching the top but we never hear about the amount of failure they went through along the way. There are lots of challenges that crop up. We need to step up and move forward always, no matter what the challenges are.
Q: If you work in an international environment, what are the challenges you face?
A: I look at the international business environment as a widening experience and not a challenge. It's important to go into international business expecting differences in backgrounds, cultures, and ethics. You need to be understanding and flexible with maintaining your culture and traditions at the same time. It’s about sharing diverse experiences, hence its international. Learning in a diverse intuition such as AFG College with the University of Aberdeen prepares you to deal with international stakeholders and businesses in the best possible way!
Q: How your entrepreneurial capacity has helped you achieve your professional success?
A: Both complement each other. Learning and being an entrepreneur, each fills the gaps of the other.
Q: What are your long-range career objectives?
A: Its important to have short-term and long-term goals. In the business environment, change is always expected. The economy fluctuates up or down on a daily basis, frequently causing businesses to alter the way they operate. Therefore, breaking down your goal into milestones will save you a lot of time and energy.
Q: What advice(s) can you give to students who are currently studying at the university?
A: Education is a very important aspect of your future. The business modules you learn at AFG College are tailored for the business environment. Even if you have a job secured for you, the things you learn today prepare you for different scenarios that will definitely find you while working. So I would say be open to new ideas and embrace the learning environment.
Q: Conclusion/Ending note:
University was a major milestone in my journey in reaching my career goals. Manage your time effectively; widen your experiences, be dedicated to your work and enhance your personality traits. Set aside adequate time for homework, study, sleep, networking, and work. What you establish today will be the base of your achievements in years to come
