Ashika Kalubadanage

MBA, Class of 2016

My academic journey began with a background in Economics, having completed a bachelor’s degree in economics. However, my interest gradually shifted toward business and management, which led me to pursue an MBA. This transition not only broadened my understanding of the business world but also sparked my passion for business education, ultimately inspiring me to undertake a Doctorate in Business Administration.

My MBA has played a significant role in shaping my professional career. During my time in the hospitality industry, the degree provided me with the business acumen and financial knowledge that helped me secure a promotion to Assistant Manager at one of the leading hospitality chains. The skills I acquired, ranging from strategic planning to operational management, proved vital in managing both people and business functions effectively.

I currently work at Canterbury Christ Church University as a Lecturer in Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Management. Alongside my teaching responsibilities, I also serve as the Course Director for the MSc courses in Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Management.

Before entering academia, I held the position of General Manager, which gave me hands-on leadership experience. The leadership and management training I received during my MBA helped refine my communication, decision-making, and team management skills. These competencies have been instrumental in both my professional industry roles and now in my academic career. In particular, they continue to support my ability to deliver engaging lectures, supervise postgraduate students, and contribute to programme development and academic leadership.

I chose to apply to the University of Suffolk because of its strong academic reputation, supportive and inclusive learning environment, and the professional opportunities it provides. One of the key reasons that attracted me was the opportunity to participate in the international study trip to Boston, USA.

In addition to the international exposure, I was impressed by the course structure, which combines theoretical knowledge with practical learning and leadership development. Some of the modules offered, such as Financial Risk Management, Strategic Marketing, and Global Economic Trends, particularly captured my interest. The focus on employability, innovation, and real-world applications made the programme stand out. I believed this approach would give me a competitive edge and prepare me for dynamic roles within the industry.

The modern riverside campus, smaller class sizes, and strong student support services also played a big part in my decision. I felt the university would provide a more personalised and engaging learning experience, which is essential for both academic success and personal development.

One of the main strengths of the University of Suffolk was its supportive and inclusive learning environment. The academic and administrative staff were approachable and always willing to help, which made a significant difference to my learning experience. The smaller class sizes encouraged more personalised learning and allowed for meaningful interaction with lecturers and peers. The university's modern facilities, especially its well-equipped library and access to online resources, supported my academic work and independent research.

Regarding the course itself, the structure was well-balanced, with a strong emphasis on leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. I particularly found the modules on Financial Risk Management, Strategic Marketing, and Global Economic Trends to be valuable, as they provided practical insights into real-world challenges and helped prepare me for leadership roles.

Another strength of the course was the blend of academic and practical assessment methods. Presentations, case studies, group work, and reflective assignments helped me build transferable skills that I now use in my current role. Overall, the University of Suffolk provided a solid foundation for both my academic progression and professional career.

My overall student experience at the University of Suffolk was both enriching and transformative, shaping my personal growth and professional aspirations in meaningful ways. Coming from an economics background, I wanted to transition into business and management, and the course provided the perfect foundation. The supportive academic environment and engaging curriculum helped me develop confidence, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of the business world.

One of the biggest positives was the personalised support from lecturers, who were approachable and committed to student success. Their constructive feedback, encouragement, and accessibility played a crucial role in building my academic skills and self-belief. The course also provided access to a range of resources, including an excellent library, academic writing workshops, and one-on-one mentoring sessions that helped me succeed academically.

The course structure itself balanced theoretical learning with practical application. Group projects, presentations, and case studies improved my communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, all of which I use in my professional life today. Modules such as financial risk management, strategic marketing, global economic trends, research methods directly influenced my career path, motivating me to pursue a doctorate and eventually transition into higher education.

Overall, my student experience at the University of Suffolk was highly rewarding. It provided me with the academic knowledge, practical skills, and personal development needed to progress in my career and ultimately become a university lecturer and course director.