When I think back to the day I received my offer letter from The University of Manchester, I can still remember the rush of excitement and the quiet fear of how much my life was about to change. Born and raised in Myanmar, moving thousands of miles away from home for higher education was a dream that felt both distant and daring. I wanted a university that would not only challenge me academically but also help me grow as a person. The University of Manchester stood out immediately, not just for its world-class reputation, but for its diverse community and inclusive culture.

Preparing to move abroad was both exciting and nerve-wracking. I couldn’t wait to see my accommodation in person and experience the vibrant city and university life I had spent months watching in YouTube vlogs. I still remember my first day here. It was raining, of course, but that didn’t stop me from exploring. Walking around campus felt almost surreal, especially as I passed iconic buildings like Whitworth Hall that reflected the university’s long-standing heritage and sense of history. That rainy day marked the beginning of an entirely new chapter in my life.

Why International Management and What I Love About My Programme

Growing up in Yangon, a city constantly evolving with new business developments, sparked my fascination with how organisations function and grow. That curiosity led me to pursue a Management degree at The University of Manchester, home to one of the top business schools in the country.

Once I settled in, I quickly realised that Manchester was everything I hoped for and more. The lecturers were approachable and genuinely invested in our learning, and I loved how the coursework encouraged collaboration and critical thinking. In second year, the programme allowed us to specialise, and I chose International Management, a perfect fit for my curiosity about how businesses operate across borders. Since I was eager to experience different environments and the organisations that drive them, I was thrilled to discover that New York University, right in the heart of a global business hub, was one of our partner universities for exchange.

As a final-year student now, I can confidently say that choosing to pursue my degree at The University of Manchester has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Spending a year in New York strengthened my independence and broadened my global perspective, but it also made me appreciate Manchester’s warmth and sense of community even more when I returned. Beyond academics, joining societies like the Management Society and taking on leadership roles such as being a Student Ambassador have allowed me to stay engaged, meet inspiring people and contribute to student life in meaningful ways.

Looking back, I realise that every part of my journey, from nervously arriving in the rain to finding my place in this vibrant community, has shaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. The University of Manchester truly offers endless opportunities to grow both personally and
professionally which is why to anyone preparing to join in 2026, I can assure you that wherever you come from, Manchester will give you the support and encouragement to become your best self. All you have to do is to take that first step, embrace every opportunity and let Manchester be the place where your story begins.

Written by Khine Ya Thaw, a current BSc International Management student.

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