Gayatri is an international student from India, studying a Master’s in International Project Management at the University of Strathclyde. Living and studying in the UK has brought a global outlook to her future ambitions and she is now part of Universities UK International’s (UUKi) #WeAreInternational: Transforming Lives campaign, dedicated to highlighting the contributions international students are making to the UK and their communities during their studies here.
Having studied in both Italy and the UK as part of her Master’s program at Strathclyde, she appreciates the balance of cultures she has experienced, but Scotland now holds a special place in her heart.
She said: “I’m so happy I picked Scotland, not only do I love the kindness, but Scottish humour is amazing”.
Living in a flat with other students from all over the world has given her even more of a global perspective. Passionate about sustainability and green issues, Gayatri wants to use the skills she’s gained while studying whilst working in project management. With ambitions for integrating the Circular Economy into project management, she hopes to become a project manager for a global brand.
“To me, true success is the pride you feel after having a meaningful impact on others. That comes before my individual triumphs. I want to pioneer sustainable transformations to create a greener, more sustainable future for all,” she said.
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Dr Shaker Ali Agha, Senior Teaching Fellow in University of Strathclyde, said: “Gayatri is a very good example of how Indian students engage with different university activities.
“She has been in regular contact with her tutors and seeks all the time to learn more, especially about the use of project management to drive forward the sustainability agenda. Gayatri has used her attendance of the International Masters Project Management programme in Milan and Glasgow to build her global reach and networking. So, I am sure she will have a very bright future as a global project manager.”
As well as making a big difference in their local communities and beyond, international students bring a £41 billion annual contribution to the UK, meaning on average, each of the 650 parliamentary constituencies in the UK is £58 million better off – equivalent to approximately £560 per citizen. In Scotland alone, international students contribute £4.21bn to the regional economy.
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Jamie Arrowsmith, Director of UUKi, said: “It’s never felt more important to acknowledge the important contributions that international students make to their university and local communities, and to the UK more broadly.
“It’s not just about the economic side of it – international students give back through cultural exchange, volunteering, and so much more. We’re proud to be sharing their stories through the latest phase of the #WeAreInternational campaign.”
*Info: #WeAreInternational
