Pearl D'Souza

Country of origin: India

Why did you choose to study at LUMS?

I chose to study at LUMS because of its strong academic reputation and its commitment to research-led teaching. The school is highly regarded and consistently ranks highly in national and international league tables.

What was the best thing about your course?

Undoubtedly, one of the most valuable aspects of my academic program was the opportunity to undertake a client-based project as part of my dissertation. This experience enabled me to apply the theoretical and practical skills that I had developed throughout my studies to a real-world problem. I found this experience immensely rewarding, as it not only allowed me to hone my research and problem-solving abilities, but also facilitated my personal and professional development. The opportunity to work directly with a client was particularly beneficial, as it allowed me to gain exposure to the demands of the business environment and to appreciate the importance of effective communication and project management. Ultimately, completing a dissertation that directly addressed a real-world problem was an incredibly enriching experience that has undoubtedly prepared me for success in my future career.

What/Who inspired you the most at LUMS and why?

One of the most influential individuals in my academic journey has been my professor and dissertation supervisor, Dr. Ivan Svetunkov. His exceptional knowledge of the subject matter and effective teaching methods were instrumental in helping me grasp complex concepts and deepen my understanding of the material. Throughout the dissertation process, Dr. Svetunkov provided unwavering support, guidance, and constructive feedback, which undoubtedly contributed to the success of the project. Even beyond the completion of the dissertation, Dr. Svetunkov has continued to be an inspiration to me, providing valuable insights and perspectives that have helped me to grow both personally and professionally.

Describe your time at LUMS in three words.

Rewarding, Challenging and Growth-oriented.

What are your best memories of your time at Lancaster?

The most cherished aspect of my time at Lancaster University was the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with my coursemates and flatmates. Interacting with individuals from diverse nationalities and cultural backgrounds provided me with a unique opportunity to broaden my horizons and gain valuable insights into different ways of life. The welcoming and inclusive community at Lancaster University facilitated these interactions, and I was fortunate enough to meet some truly remarkable people who have left an indelible mark on my life. These moments of camaraderie and shared experiences will remain some of my most cherished memories of my time at the university.

What are the best things about living in the Lancaster area?

Living in Lancaster was a highlight of my time at university. The city's reputation for safety was reassuring, and the kindness and welcoming nature of the locals made me feel at home. This sense of comfort greatly contributed to my overall enjoyment of the university experience.

What impact did scholarships or funding have on your degree experience?

In my experience, receiving a scholarship had a significant impact on my degree experience. The financial support alleviated the burden of tuition fees and living expenses, allowing me to focus on my studies and make the most of the university experience.

Which parts of your Lancaster experience were the best preparation for your job?

The assignments, coursework, and dissertation I completed during my degree program had a significant impact on my preparation for my current job. The focus on data and analytics in my courses required us to prioritize high-quality data when building models and conducting analyses. As a Data Quality Analyst now, I have been able to utilize these skills that I developed during my studies.