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I had a placement in Velindre on the new cancer hospital project. With my background in construction, it was the perfect fit.
Finding the Right Place to Grow and Learn
I came to university after four years working as a builder and running my own small carpentry and groundwork business. I’d always had a business mindset through my family, but I didn’t have the deeper understanding I needed to progress. I wanted the university experience without the overly formal, research-heavy environment my friends described at other institutions, and USW offered exactly the kind of teaching style that suited me. After attending an open day, the mock lecture showed me a more personal approach where lecturers actually know you, and the location appealed to me far more than a busy city campus.
Since joining the course, one of the biggest opportunities I’ve had has been my placement with Velindre on the new cancer hospital project. With my background in construction, it was the perfect fit, and it allowed me to see the project from a management perspective. What made the experience stand out was the access we had to senior staff: we were able to sit down with leaders, ask questions and understand how decisions were made. Those conversations taught me more about the industry than I expected, and the team even told me I’d be welcome back if a role becomes available.
Find your courseModules, Skills and Real Experiences Beyond the Classroom
The course itself has been varied, practical and full of opportunities to grow. The entrepreneurship module was a highlight for me: starting a business with just £10 and turning it into a meaningful project was really rewarding, and donating our profits to Pontypridd Food Bank made it even better. I also enjoyed the analytics modules, which played to my strengths, and the course’s teaching style has helped me become far more confident with presentations, communication and general professionalism. USW has also given me access to things I wouldn’t have had otherwise, like the Big Ideas Wales funding competition, where I pitched my small golf accessory brand and secured £850 to grow it further.
Looking ahead, I’m interested in project management, particularly in construction, as it combines my past experience with the skills I’ve developed here. I’d love to return to Velindre if the opportunity arises, but I’m also exploring the USW graduate scheme and the wider job market now that I feel ready and confident. This degree has expanded my skills, confidence and network more than I expected, and I’ve grown a lot personally as well as academically.
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Interested in Business and Management?
Our business degrees will teach you about all aspects of how a successful business is run and you'll develop skills in people management, decision making and negotiation.