Ryan Yates
Country Of Origin: United Kingdom
Degree: BA Advertising & Marketing, 2022
Account Executive, Veracity Marketing
Why did you choose to study at LUMS?
It seems like so long ago now, but I chose to study at LUMS after visiting a campus open day. Before Lancaster I was not considering a campus university as I wanted to be in the city where everything is going on. However, after visiting the campus I realised that it acts as its own little town centre. It has everything: shops, takeaways, pubs, a post office and a gym.
What was the best thing about your course?
The best thing about my course was the range of modules. Although there is a lot of essay writing and exams, like you’d expect, there’s also the opportunity to work on more creative assignments like making a video advert in first year, creating presentations, and even making design portfolios (if you choose a design module as one of your free choices).
What/who inspired you most at LUMS and why?
Although lots of lecturers and staff inspired me throughout my time in Lancaster, the alumni of LUMS inspired me the most. People from the Management School have gone on to do incredible things and have reached amazing places which makes you think - what’s stopping me?
Did you do a project, placement or study abroad? What did this involve and what did you gain?
I gained a lot of experience from group projects. The ‘Marketing Research Consultancy Project’ in my final year involved working on a real-world brief involving the collection and analysis of data before presenting the findings and our recommendations to a real client. It helped me improve a lot of skills employers find valuable such as team-working, leadership, resilience and presenting.
Describe your time at LUMS in three words.
I’ve finished already?!
What are your best memories of your time at Lancaster?
Some of my best memories at university are actually during the Coronavirus lockdowns where we left the city of Lancaster to explore the surrounding countryside. You’ve got to check out the Arnside coast, Warton Crag and Half Moon Bay.
What are the best things about living in the Lancaster area?
Believe it or not, Lancaster is actually only a few miles from being the centre of the UK and Great Britain which makes trips around the UK pretty easy. Whilst studying here I’ve been to Manchester, London, Leeds, Nottingham, Sheffield and Edinburgh, all from Lancaster train station.
Is there anything else about your LUMS experience that you'd like to share with us?
One element I’ve not mentioned yet but really should is the LUMS Careers team. Vicky has helped me develop employability skills throughout my time at university and, alongside LaVerne, invited me to 'Two + Two 2022' which was an amazing opportunity to prepare for life after university.