)
)
My name is Hamza Wajid, and I am from Pakistan. I studied MSc Economics at the School of Economics, class of 2024-25.
Coming to UEA has been one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of my academic journey. From the moment I arrived, the friendly atmosphere, the supportive community and the beauty of the campus made Norwich feel like home almost instantly.
I chose UEA because of the strong reputation of the School of Economics in applied research and its commitment to supporting students. What stood out to me the most was how approachable the lecturers are. A simple email or conversation after class could turn into a helpful discussion, new ideas or even guidance that shaped my academic direction. It is rare to find an environment where staff engage with students so openly and genuinely.
During my studies, I particularly enjoyed Econometric Theory and Financial Markets, both taught by Dr Gustavo Fruet Dias, whose teaching style made even the most technical topics enjoyable. Applied Econometrics, taught by Dr Bahar Ghezelayagh and Dr Georgios Papadopoulos, helped me connect real data with real policy questions, and I found the practical elements incredibly valuable.
)
My dissertation was titled The Impact of Strategic Networking on Business Performance. I had the opportunity to work closely with the Norfolk Network and with my supervisor Dr Bahar Ghezelayagh, whose guidance and support were exceptional. She remained available even during the summer break, something that truly reflects the professionalism of UEA and the seriousness with which research is taken here. The dissertation was not just an academic exercise. It taught me how consultancy work operates in the real world. I engaged with the business community in Norwich, conducted conversations with business owners, asked meaningful questions and learned how organizations think and grow. I understood how collaboration, trust and strategic relationships can shape business performance. This experience gave me confidence and skills that go far beyond the classroom. You can listen to me speaking about my research here.
)
Outside my academic life, I love travelling and exploring. Norwich and the rest of the UK offered me countless places to discover. I spent time doing photography and videography, tried different cafes and enjoyed long walks along the riverside. The UEA lake quickly became one of my favorite places on campus. Evening walks there were peaceful, and mornings after long nights of studying in the library were refreshing and unforgettable.
Studying was a journey of discipline and discovery. I made detailed notes, used textbooks to deepen my understanding and often rewatched lectures. I mostly studied at night, and the quiet of the UEA library at night became special to me. Walking by the lake at dawn after sessions of studying was something I will always remember.
Moving from Pakistan to Norwich was a big change. Coming from a large family and suddenly living alone felt very different in the beginning. The culture, the pace of life and the environment were all new to me. But Norwich welcomed me warmly. I met my best friend Salman on my second day here outside the Enterprise Centre, and from then on, I continued meeting wonderful people who made settling in easy. Pakistan will always have its own charm, culture and warmth, but Norwich gave me a new perspective. The medieval streets, the history and the kindness of people helped me grow personally and academically. Life here is busy, and although cooking was already my hobby, living independently helped me improve so much that I can now call myself a chef, fingers crossed.
For anyone thinking about studying Economics at UEA, my advice is to stay curious and get involved. Visit your lecturers, ask questions, attend events and do not miss the free coffee and chat sessions where you can meet new people and learn something new every time. If you are motivated and willing to take the initiative, the academic staff at the School of Economics will always support you. This environment helps you grow not just academically but also personally and professionally.
UEA has allowed me to thrive, to learn, to explore and to become more confident in my abilities. It has truly become a second home for me and a place where I discovered my strengths and my ambitions.