Will Ridley

Why Teesside University?

I chose to study at Teesside University after speaking to staff and students at an open day. They made me feel like it was a great place to study with good links to business. I really liked the feel of Middlesbrough, it’s a town with lots of history and lots of investment.

Best thing about your course?

I enjoyed the wide range of business knowledge, from operations and strategies to running conglomerates. I also liked working on real-life case studies – I worked on one looking at the way Volkswagen handled the emissions scandal.

I developed great critical thinking, strategic management, marketing, and presentation skills.

Tell us about your University experience

In my time at Teesside I got involved in a variety of roles – Microsoft Ambassador, Teesside University Business School Representative and Fresher’s Representative. I also chaired the Student Food Co-Operative and won several awards including Best Enterprising Society and Student Rep Team of the year.

I was also successful in becoming the Students’ Union President. I wanted to make a difference and ensure students’ voices were heard. In my year as president I organised a student panel interview for the Vice-Chancellor, opened the Students’ Union refurbishment, spoke at community events, ran a safety campaign, encouraged students to vote in the general election and gained £200,000 funding for the Students’ Union.

How has your time at Teesside prepared you for life after university?

Since day one at Teesside I have completely transformed – from living with friends, learning how to cook and the developing skills on my course. I got a first class honours degree from my degree which I was thrilled about.

What are you doing now?

I’m a Media Experience Manager at Bicycle London. I work with a range of brands, planning marketing campaigns and helping them grow.

What advice would you give to someone considering Teesside University?

Make Teesside University your number one option, you will not regret it. Speak to staff, students and alumni and they will all tell you a similar story about how Teesside University has transformed their lives and given them experiences they’ll never forget.