By Simran (BSc Politics and Management, 2025)
When I was choosing what to study at university, I knew I wanted a degree that combined big-picture thinking with practical, real-world application. Politics and Management at the University of Exeter (now called Politics and Business) at the Penryn Campus in Cornwall immediately stood out.
Exeter was one of the few universities offering this combination as a joined-up programme rather than a loosely connected combined honours degree, and that really appealed to me. The course felt genuinely integrated, with tutors who understood both disciplines and helped us bridge the gap between political theory and business practice.
Studying politics allowed me to engage with ideas that can sometimes feel abstract, while management grounded those ideas in how organisations actually function. That balance was incredibly valuable. I was able to explore how decisions are made, how power and institutions work, and how organisations respond to complex global challenges – skills that have proved directly relevant to my career so far.
Coming to Cornwall was also a big part of the appeal. I was born in Hong Kong and had only ever lived in large cities like London, so moving to Penryn was a complete change of pace. At first it was a shock, but it quickly grew on me. The Penryn Campus offers a unique university experience – small, close-knit, and incredibly supportive. Tutors know you by name, and there’s a real sense that you’re encouraged and challenged to do the best you can. That kind of environment makes a huge difference.
One of the things I enjoyed most about the course was its structure. It’s very coursework-focused, which suited my learning style. I liked being able to develop ideas through writing, presentations, and group work rather than relying solely on exams. The module options were strong, combining theoretical depth with practical business-focused learning. There were also opportunities to engage with industry, including placements and applied projects, which helped bring everything together.
I’m now employed on the graduate scheme at the Bank of New York, rotating across different desks within the Global Markets division. My rotations include trading, sales, strategy, and structuring, which gives me exposure to a wide range of roles and helps me build a strong foundation in financial markets. It’s an exciting and fast-paced environment, and I feel very fortunate to have landed where I have.
Looking back, my degree played a big role in helping me secure this role. It really pushed me to develop my communication skills – how to present myself, how to articulate ideas clearly, and how to communicate both in writing and in person. You learn to stand up in front of a room, defend your arguments, and also to write succinctly and persuasively. Those skills were invaluable during the rigorous application and interview process that exists, not just for banking, but for top graduate roles more broadly.
I would absolutely recommend the course and the university. The tutors are fantastic, the academic environment is supportive but demanding, and the campus community is incredibly diverse – especially with Falmouth University sharing the location, as a specialist arts school. That mix of people really adds to both the academic experience and personal growth. Studying in Cornwall gave me the space to focus, challenge myself, and figure out what I wanted to do next.
For anyone considering Politics and Management, I can confidently say it gave me the skills, confidence, and perspective to take the next step into a competitive global career, and I wouldn’t change that experience for anything.