Michael Theodoridis

“Pursuing a university education was a personal goal shaped by my ambitions rather than family tradition. In my family higher education is not common, with me being the first generation to go to university. This lack of precedent made the decision to attend university even more significant for me, as it represents not only a pursuit of academic excellence but also a step towards expanding my own horizons and setting new standards for future generations of my family.

 “I am originally from Greece so choosing to study in the UK was a big decision, shaped by many factors. The UK is renowned for its high standards of education and is home to some of the world’s leading universities. I was particularly drawn to the UK because of its strong reputation in business education, where universities combine theoretical knowledge with practical experiences, such as placements and internships, which align perfectly with my career aspirations. My career aspirations centre around advancing within the field of human resources, with a particular focus on talent management, organisational development, and employee relations. My fascination with human resources and marketing drew me to this degree; BSc Business Management (including placement year). Human resources management focuses on the strategic handling of an organisation's most valuable asset, its people, while marketing is key to creating value, driving growth, and fostering relationships with consumers. Both areas require a deep understanding of business dynamics, organisational behaviour and leadership, which the Business Management programme offers. The course has provided me with a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills and has equipped me to navigate complex business challenges and develop effective solutions. 

“Not only does Essex have a strong reputation for its business programmes, it’s also known for its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, with a focus on student development and career progression. The opportunities for placements, internships, and real-world business exposure were particularly attractive, as I value hands-on learning and gaining practical experience alongside my studies. The university’s placement year option was a crucial factor in my decision, as it allows me to integrate academic learning with professional experience, which I see as essential for preparing myself for the competitive job market.

“Academically, my highlight of Essex has been achieving a First and being included in the Dean’s List twice in a row. This recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion I have put into my studies, and it has motivated me to continue striving for excellence throughout my academic journey. Another significant highlight has been my role as a Student Ambassador, particularly working with the university's marketing team. This experience allowed me to apply the theoretical knowledge from my business management courses to real-world scenarios. I played an active role in promoting the university, crafting innovative content, and engaging with prospective students, which helped me develop key skills in marketing, communication, and leadership. The opportunity to represent the university and work closely with the marketing team was both rewarding and educational. 

“My time at Essex has been equally fulfilling outside of the classroom. One of the highlights has been my involvement with various societies, particularly the LGBTQ+ Society, where being a member has not only allowed me to advocate for inclusivity but also to connect with a supportive community where I’ve forged meaningful friendships. Volunteering, especially through the SU advice team and other university projects, has been another rewarding experience, where I’ve had the opportunity to give back and help other students with various queries and issues, which gave me fulfilment and allowed me to develop new skills. 

“Sports have also played a major role in my life at Essex. As a member of the university’s social volleyball team, I’ve enjoyed competing and bonding with teammates from diverse backgrounds, while improving my athletic skills and team collaboration. My passion for boxing and regular gym membership have also been essential for maintaining a healthy balance between academic commitments and fitness, providing me with both physical and mental strength. I got involved with the SU in various ways, but a particularly memorable experience was helping an SU leader with their election campaign. This allowed me to dive deeper into the workings of the Students’ Union, gaining insights into leadership, campaigning, and student engagement, while also expanding my network within the university.