More than a degree: opportunities outside the classroom

Francesco Vezza arrived at Strathclyde, wanting more than just a degree - the opportunities and experiences he went on to say yes to have challenged his perspectives and have led to both academic and personal growth.

When I first arrived at the University of Strathclyde, I knew I wanted to gain more than just a degree. What I didn't know was how much the opportunities ahead would challenge my perspective, build my confidence and change the way I imagined my future. Studying Business Analysis and Technology with Business Law has allowed me to understand the fundamentals of business operations and the legal framework behind them. However, some of my most valuable learning experiences, which have challenged my understanding, have taken place outside the classroom.

Making the Most of University Life

Throughout my studies, I have developed an interest in innovation, entrepreneurship and international business. After a few years, I realised that university is not only about gaining academic knowledge, but also about developing confidence, building relationships and discovering new perspectives.

From day one, I felt that there were many opportunities to get involved. The university has encouraged me to participate in different activities throughout the academic year. Having access to these opportunities and resources has been a key part of my experience, allowing me to challenge myself and step outside my comfort zone.

Exploring Entrepreneurship at Strathclyde

One of the highlights of my university journey this year was participating in the Exploring Entrepreneurship Challenge. Working alongside students from different faculties was an incredibly enriching experience. It allowed me to approach challenges from different angles, combine perspectives and understand how people with different academic backgrounds can contribute to solving practical problems.

Winning the challenge was an incredibly rewarding moment, but what made it even more meaningful was realising that winning was not the end of the journey, but the beginning of new opportunities. It gave me the confidence to believe in my ideas, push myself further, and build a fantastic support network.

An International Experience at HKUST

Another important milestone this year was taking part in the summer school programme at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) in China.

This experience gave me the opportunity to study and experience life in a different country. Being in China expanded my understanding of the world and showed me how international collaboration can encourage creativity and new ideas. Most importantly, it reminded me that learning is not limited to one country or classroom.

During this time, I also had the opportunity to visit several leading tech and industrial companies. One experience that particularly stood out was visiting China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), where I gained a deeper understanding of how innovation and technology come together on a bigger scale.

What made this experience so meaningful was seeing how the concepts I had studied at university were being applied in the real world, thousands of miles away from home. It made me realise just how connected our world truly is and how business can shape the future.

Standing there, I realised that opportunities like this are not just about gaining knowledge but about changing the way we see the world. It inspired me to think bigger, remain curious, and recognise the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone.

Becoming an Inspire Ambassador and MDP3 Intern

My involvement with Strathclyde Inspire has continued through my role as an Inspire Ambassador and, more recently, as an MDP3 intern.

Being an Inspire Ambassador has given me the opportunity to connect with the university's entrepreneurial community, which has taught me the value of taking initiative, reaching out to people, and actively seeking new experiences. I have realised that sometimes the most rewarding opportunities begin with simply having the confidence to take the first step.

The Management Development Programme (MDP) has also been an important part of my university journey, helping me develop practical and professional skills alongside my academic studies.

Now, as an MDP3 intern with Strathclyde Inspire, I have the opportunity to put those skills into practice in a real working environment. Through this experience, I am developing my critical thinking, contributing to meaningful projects and gaining a better understanding of how organisations support innovation and entrepreneurship.

Reflecting on My Journey

Looking back, I have learned that some of the most valuable university experiences come from saying yes to opportunities, even when they initially feel unfamiliar or challenging.

These experiences have taught me the importance of resilience, consistency and learning from the past to shape the future. Today, I can see how much I have grown, both personally and professionally. When I reflect on the person I was when I first started university, I realise how much my confidence, skills and perspective have changed.

My advice to other students would be to get involved, explore different interests and not be afraid to step outside their comfort zone. Not every experience will be easy, but each one offers an opportunity to learn and grow.

For me, Strathclyde has become much more than a place to study. It is a place where I can challenge myself, connect with inspiring people, and continue discovering what I want to achieve in the future.

Today, I am excited about the future because I have built confidence and skills to embrace change and overcome.

About Francesco Vezza

Francesco Vezza from Venezuela is an undergraduate student at Strathclyde Business School, studying for a BA (Hons) Business Analysis and Technology and Business Law. He is currently a student intern with Strathclyde Inspire within the University of Strathclyde.