Gautam Vassanmal

MBA, Class of 2016

"Knowledge is Power." This quote has been a guiding principle throughout my life, influencing my professional journey and my approach to connecting with others. From a young age, I’ve been passionate about learning—whether exploring new cultures, embracing fresh ideas, or understanding diverse perspectives. This enthusiasm drives my personal and professional development, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to my organisation and support those around me.  

Since graduating from the University of Suffolk, I have worked in the education consulting and recruitment industry. I’ve specialised in Student Recruitment, focusing on Graduate Recruitment and Business Development. My introduction to the education sector occurred during my Master’s program working as a course administrator at the University of Suffolk, where I directly supported students on their academic journeys. Witnessing the transformative power of education firsthand solidified my passion for helping others achieve their academic and personal goals. It was in this environment that I discovered my calling. 

I guide students through the complex recruitment and admissions process, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. This work combines my love for helping others with a strategic mindset, enabling me to assist institutions in refining their recruitment strategies. Some of my other roles have included working in business development. In business development, I focus on identifying new market opportunities, building partnerships, and driving revenue growth. My work involves analysing market trends, developing strategies to expand the company's reach, and building relationships with key stakeholders, including potential clients, investors, and strategic partners. I collaborate closely with teams across sales, marketing, and product to align on goals and ensure successful execution of growth initiatives. With strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills, I aim to position the company for sustained growth and a competitive edge. 

I chose to apply to the University of Suffolk (then University Campus Suffolk) because it offered a unique mix of practical learning experiences and global exposure. Connecting with Dr. Tom Vine in Indonesia, where I am from, made a significant impact, as I could see Suffolk’s commitment to both academic rigor and real-world application. The chance to undertake a live consultancy project in Boston, USA, was especially attractive because it combined international experience with hands-on learning. This opportunity aligned perfectly with my career goals, offering a platform to apply what I learned in a real-world setting while building connections abroad. Additionally, Suffolk’s emphasis on personal development, alongside its modern approach to business education, assured me that it was the right environment for my MBA studies. 

My student experience at the University of Suffolk was both positive and enriching. From the start, I felt well-supported by the University community. The professors were approachable and consistently willing to engage with my questions, which helped deepen my understanding of the material and made for an encouraging learning environment. My classmates, with their diverse backgrounds and experiences, contributed to meaningful class discussions, and I was glad to bring my own perspective to these conversations. 

Living in Athena Hall provided a safe, welcoming space, and being within walking distance of the university made me feel truly integrated into the campus community, which was invaluable as an international student. This closeness allowed me to immerse myself fully in the university experience, helping me to build connections and make the most of my time at Suffolk. 

In my opinion, the main strengths of the University of Suffolk when I studied there were its modern approach and focus on career readiness. The smaller class sizes allowed me to receive personalized attention from faculty, which was key in building strong academic and professional foundations. 

Suffolk’s commitment to employability stood out, as I gained real-world experience through internships and industry connections that prepared me well for my career. The supportive community and diverse environment added to the experience, and Ipswich’s affordable living—along with easy access to London—made it a practical choice. The university’s emphasis on student wellbeing and extensive support services also played a big role in making my time there meaningful and productive.