Sasinaree Wanyen

Adam Smith Business School, University of Glasgow

Home City and Country: Bangkok, Thailand

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Product Specialist, Johnson&Jonhson Innovative Medicine

How has studying business in the United Kingdom enriched your learning experience? Transitioning from a pharmaceutical background to pursuing an MBA in the UK has been a transformative journey. The vibrant international community provided the perfect platform to broaden my perspective. The MBA program at Glasgow bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world application, particularly through case-based learning. This method goes beyond teaching—it simulates the complexities of the business world, preparing me to excel in high-stakes environments. Moreover, collaborative group assignments have been invaluable in training for future leadership roles. These experiences required active listening, open-mindedness, and the ability to align diverse perspectives to achieve shared goals. This process deepened my understanding of how cultural diversity influences decision-making and underscored the importance of adaptability in leading cross-cultural teams.

What has been the toughest transition to living in the United Kingdom so far? What have you done to overcome this difficulty? The toughest transition to living in the United Kingdom has been adapting to communication, as English is my second language. Understanding the pace, colloquialisms, and nuances of everyday conversations in both academic and professional settings was initially challenging. During the induction weeks, as I was adjusting to life in the UK, the MBA administration team was incredibly supportive. The orientation sessions provided helpful communication tips and connected us with workshops and support services. This proactive support was invaluable in easing the transition and ensuring I felt confident in my ability to communicate effectively.

Participating in group discussions or networking events often required me to think quickly and express my ideas clearly. Additionally, my classmates were patient and understanding, often repeating themselves or explaining things in simpler terms when needed. I also relied on alternative communication methods, such as writing down key points, using pictures, and utilizing body language to express ideas more effectively. With the combined support of my peers and the administration team, I gradually gained more confidence in my communication skills. Over time, I have learned that persistence, adaptability, and creative approaches are essential for overcoming language barriers and successfully transitioning to a new way of life.

What school service has been the most helpful in transitioning to living in the United Kingdom? How has it helped you adapt? They provided me with essential tips, such as information on student discounts, which made managing my budget much easier. Additionally, they recommended local cafes and restaurants, helping me explore the area and feel more at home. They also provided advice on maintaining health in the UK, particularly regarding the colder weather and reduced sunlight. For example, they suggested taking supplements like Vitamin D to boost immunity, which was especially helpful during the winter months. This guidance not only made adapting to life in the UK more enjoyable, but also helped me feel more connected to the local community. These thoughtful recommendations eased my daily life, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on the challenges of settling into a new environment.

What has been the most interesting cultural nuance of people living in the United Kingdom? Why has this struck you? The most interesting cultural nuance I have noticed in the United Kingdom is how friendly and helpful people are. For example, when I borrowed a membership card at a supermarket, the person didn’t just lend it to me, but also showed me how to register my own card to get discounts. Another time, someone explained how to insert a coin into a trolley, which was something new for me. At local cafes and restaurants, people are also very kind. They don’t hesitate to explain unfamiliar menu items or recommend dishes I’ve never tried before. This friendliness reminds me of the hospitality in Thailand, where people are also very welcoming and willing to help. This attitude is very different from some other countries I’ve visited, where people seem more reserved or formal. The kindness I’ve encountered in the UK has helped me settle in and provided a sense of emotional support.

Are you seeking a Visa to work in the United Kingdom after graduation? If so, what obstacles have you faced and how did you overcome them? Yes, I am considering applying for a visa to work in the United Kingdom after graduation. However, there are significant challenges involved. One major obstacle is the high fee for the Graduate Visa, which can be a financial strain for many international students. Additionally, not having strong connections with local companies has made it harder to find job opportunities, especially with employers open to hiring international candidates. The high cost of living in the UK, including expenses like NHS fees, taxes, and general living costs, adds to the difficulty of transitioning from student life to working life in a foreign country.

To overcome these challenges, I scheduled one-on-one discussions with the administration team to share my background and career aspirations. These meetings provided personalized guidance on aligning my skills with potential job opportunities and navigating the job market. The university’s Professional Development and Employability sessions also helped me improve my CV, enhance my LinkedIn profile, and develop strategies for approaching employers effectively. Additionally, I’ve been actively building my professional network through events, workshops, and online platforms like LinkedIn. These efforts have boosted my confidence and equipped me with practical tools to work towards my career goals in the UK.

What have you done to make it easier to make friends with people from outside your home country at business school? Connecting with people from outside my home country at business school has been an enriching experience, and I’ve embraced it by staying open and approachable. During induction week, I made the most of the opportunity to meet new people by changing seats every day, allowing me to interact with a diverse group of classmates. I make it a point to smile warmly, greet others, and remember their names, creating a friendly and inviting atmosphere. I also ask my classmates to teach me a few simple words in their language, like “hello” and “thank you,” and make an effort to use them in conversations. It’s a wonderful way to break the ice and show my appreciation for their culture.

I enjoy noticing the little details that reflect their personalities, such as cartoon characters they use to decorate their phones, laptops, or keychains. Commenting on these touches often sparks fun conversations and helps us connect over shared interests. Sharing food has also been a meaningful way to bond. I love offering snacks or letting classmates try my lunch box, often filled with local recipes from my home country. It’s a heartfelt way to share a piece of my culture and create a moment of connection. These small but thoughtful gestures have made it easier to build genuine friendships with classmates from around the world.

What piece of advice would you give to an international student looking to study in a UK graduate business program?  Considering a UK graduate business program is a transformative opportunity that goes far beyond academics. Studying in the UK for just one year can change your life, not only professionally but also personally. You’ll gain not only knowledge in your field but also practical life skills, such as effective communication and adapting to new environments.

The UK’s globally renowned education system ensures high-quality learning, and its universities are known for producing graduates equipped with the skills to thrive in a competitive world. Moreover, students can stay for up to two years on a Graduate Visa to gain valuable work experience, offering a pathway to enhance career prospects and apply your learning in real-world settings.

Living in a developed country like the UK provides a better quality of life, with clean air, green spaces, and excellent public services. It’s also an incredible destination for movie and series lovers, with iconic locations featured in productions like Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Skyfall and Notting Hill. Exploring these famous spots during weekends and holidays adds a magical touch to your experience, letting you immerse yourself in the cultural and cinematic charm of the UK.

This journey also enables you to broaden your perspective, immerse yourself in diversity, and appreciate different cultures and viewpoints. Make the most of your time by engaging with peers, participating in collaborative projects, and building a global network. Beyond academics, this year is an opportunity to grow as a person, develop resilience, and create lasting memories that will shape your future.

DON’T MISS: 2025 MBAS ABROAD: UNITED KINGDOM