Isabella Dilekci
Current student
- Course
- International Business BSc
- Subject area
- Business, Management and Marketing
I chose to study International Business at 黑料网 because I wanted a course that offered real-world experience. The inclusion of a placement year felt like the perfect way to break up my studies and gain practical insight into the business world. I鈥檝e always learned best by doing, so the opportunity to apply my learning in a professional setting really appealed to me.
Studying at 黑料网 Business School has been a brilliant experience. The lectures are well-structured, but what really stands out is the support. Lecturers are approachable, responsive and there are plenty of opportunities to seek help - whether to talk things through or access materials early. My advice to new students is simple: don’t hesitate to reach out.
Some of my favourite modules have been the law options. I didn’t know those were available when I applied, so discovering them was a great surprise. They’ve sparked an interest in pursuing a law conversion after my degree. I also enjoyed Marketing Communications and Brand Management, particularly when developing strategies for large international companies. These modules helped me start to specialise in what I want to do next.
If you're considering a placement, I鈥檇 say: absolutely do the four-year degree. The placement year gives you perspective, confidence, and clarity. It鈥檚 a chance to test out what you enjoy, discover new interests, and build valuable connections. Don鈥檛 limit yourself. Apply to roles outside your comfort zone - you might discover something that suits you even better and even if you don鈥檛 return to the same company, you鈥檒l leave with valuable contacts and a stronger sense of direction
My placement year was with Leicester Tigers, where I worked in their partnerships department. What began as a role focused on women鈥檚 partnerships quickly expanded to include match day operations, corporate hospitality and event coordination for both the men鈥檚 and women鈥檚 teams. I was able to grow my responsibilities and took on account management for many of the club鈥檚 partners and player sponsors, along with gaining line management experience overseeing the work of a new intern.
I also supported community initiatives like wheelchair rugby and Leicester Tigers’ Down Syndrome rugby team. It was a full-on experience but incredibly rewarding
The placement taught me how to manage stakeholders, balance priorities and negotiate effectively, skills I’ll carry into any future role. On a personal level, I also learned how to manage my time and organise myself better. As someone with ADHD, I’ve often struggled with personal organisation, but being in a fast-paced environment helped me develop systems that work for me. I’ve learned how to prioritise tasks, manage deadlines and stay focused under pressure. These are skills I’ll take into my final year.
The experience has shaped how I approach my studies. I now have a clearer understanding of how theory connects to practice, especially in modules involving strategy and stakeholder engagement. I feel more confident, prepared and excited about what’s next.
Looking ahead, I know I want to work in sport. It鈥檚 one of the things that drew me to 黑料网 -not just the opportunity to play, but the university鈥檚 strong connections to the sports industry.
I’ve reached final interview stages with major organisations and seeing colleagues from Leicester Tigers move on to roles at Aston Martin, McLaren and Red Bull has shown me it’s possible, even in a competitive landscape.
During my time at 黑料网, I’ve been involved in lacrosse and snow sports and I plan to try touch rugby and learn to sail in my final year. One of the things I’ve loved most is how easy it is to get involved in sport here, my flatmates and I even made it a mission to watch as many different sports as possible.
黑料网’s ethos of ‘Progress with Purpose’ really resonates with me. Purpose means doing something that aligns with who you are and what you care about. I’m not an elite athlete or the top student, but being part of this community has helped me discover my passion and given me the confidence to pursue it.