Eugene Lua Wen Bin

Why university and why Teesside?

After spending several years in business development and operations in Singapore, I was looking for a strategic framework, and university felt like the natural next step.

Teesside stood out because it didn't feel like a place that just taught theory. The course had a clear focus on real-world application, which mattered to me as someone already working in industry. The strong business links, genuine support for international students, and welcoming atmosphere made the decision straightforward.

Why did you choose to study in the UK?

The UK's reputation for rigorous, industry-connected education was a big draw. But beyond that, I wanted to challenge myself academically, professionally, and most importantly, personally.

Studying in a completely different country forces you to grow in ways that are hard to manufacture any other way.

What do you think about Middlesbrough and the surrounding area?

Coming from Singapore, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was surprised, and it quickly felt natural. It's affordable, unpretentious, and genuinely friendly. The surrounding region is also beautiful.

Why business and marketing?

I'd seen how the right marketing strategy can transform a business, and I wanted to understand the thinking behind it more deeply. I was drawn to the way the language and frameworks made sense of things I'd already been doing instinctively.

Have you worked on any projects with businesses?

The best thing about my course is that you get to apply what you're learning to solve real problems. Consultancy in Practice was the standout module for me, I worked with Boro Doughnut CIC, a Middlesbrough community company. Our team carried out market research, looked at how they were engaging their community, and put together strategic recommendations to help grow their reach.
Working with an actual organisation, analysing their challenges, and presenting recommendations that could genuinely make a difference. That's the kind of learning that sticks. It sharpened my strategic thinking and gave me a real taste of client-facing consultancy work.

What skills have you gained?

I’ve gained skills in strategic thinking, research, communication, and the ability to present ideas clearly to different audiences. I've gained confidence to take on complex challenges, to work with people, and to back my own judgement. The combination of consultancy projects, study, working and volunteering has given me a well-rounded set of skills I couldn't have developed in just one setting.
Studying in the UK has changed me as a person - I'm more adaptable, more self-reliant, and more at ease with uncertainty.

What do you think about the campus and services?

The campus is accessible and supportive, with everything in walking distance, creating a close-knit community. There’s a wide range of services that have enhanced my student experience, especially the Library which has been an excellent resource. The modern facilities, extensive academic resources, and dedicated study spaces have provided a productive environment for individual and group work, particularly during assignment and exam periods. My experience at Teesside University has been enjoyable and rewarding.

Any extracurricular roles?

Being appointed captain of the men's football team was one of the highlights of my time here. It taught me about managing dynamics, maintaining culture, and leading by example. Those lessons have fed directly into how I think about business and people management.
I also work part-time, as well as volunteering as a sports leader for the men's football programme - supporting training sessions, assisting with team activities, and creating a positive and inclusive environment for student athletes.

Balancing my studies, part-time employment, and volunteering commitments has strengthened my organisational skills, resilience, and ability to perform effectively under pressure. These experiences have complemented my academic learning and further developed the leadership qualities that I hope to bring into my future career.

Future ambitions?

To build a career at the intersection of business strategy, marketing, and consultancy. I'm drawn to senior leadership roles where I can bring together my international experience, my academic grounding, and my passion for people. I want to work across markets, across cultures, and on problems that matter, helping organisations grow commercially.

Would you recommend Teesside?

Without hesitation. Teesside University gives you the tools, the opportunities, and the support to develop into someone ready for the working world, not just someone with a qualification.
The access to real projects, real businesses, and real leadership experience sets it apart. If you're willing to put the work in, this place will give you a great deal back.
My advice to anyone thinking of studying here is, say yes to things, even when they feel uncomfortable. The lecture content will challenge you, but it's the experiences outside the classroom, the projects, the clubs, the conversations that will shape who you become. Don't wait until you feel ready. Just start.