Alumni

 

Name: Nahian Iftekhar Alam

Home country: Bangladesh

 
"Before coming to Glasgow, I was working in a B2B start-up in Bangladesh. Working with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds made me realize that I wanted to work in a sector where I could make more meaningful impacts for a larger number of people. But before that, I needed to go back to the classroom to understand more about how to do that. So, while searching for a suitable master’s degree, University of Glasgow’s campus, the learning facilities, and its emphasis on sustainability made it one of my top choices. And, after coming to Glasgow, I fell in love with the city and its people, something that I’ll always cherish. 

Personally, I love to travel, which I haven’t been able to do as much as I could in the last few years; cook, read. I train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and have set a personal target to finish a marathon in 2024." 

 
Why did you choose the Adam Smith Business School? 

I chose the Adam Smith Business School because the program I enrolled in offered courses both in social sciences and business, which was unique and would help me become better prepared to work in the development sector and policymaking. 

 

What did you enjoy the most about your programme? How has your degree helped you in your career? 

 The vast number of resources I had within my grasp, as well as the helpful faculties who I could reach out to. My knowledge is benefiting me a lot in my role of partnership and innovation at Swisscontact, where I’m working with diverse public and private stakeholders to develop primary healthcare in Bangladesh. 

What have you been up to since graduating from the Business School? 

After graduating, I moved back to Bangladesh and joined Swisscontact. Currently, I am working in a project named ASTHA, where we’re training young adults to become community paramedics to serve the rural areas of the country. 

What was the most important thing you learnt while studying at Glasgow? 

No matter what challenges you face, keep learning and be receptive to ideas. 

What is your top piece of advice for current students – our future alumni? 

Be adventurous, take a few risks. Life is not a smooth sailing, but the waves teach you more than the calm seas. 

Tell us about your fondest memory at the Business School. 

I joined the university for physical classes a month late due to visa and immigration issues. When I was at the Fraser building to collect my ID and other details, I was confused what to do or who to ask. Another student came to me and showed me what to do. Being in a new place all by yourself is overwhelming but that gesture of kindness really touched me. We shared our numbers and became friends. I’ll keep this memory with me wherever I go and try to do the same for others. 

 

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First published: 12 June 2024