The global business environment is an ever-changing one that requires adequate skills,

knowledge and expertise in strategic management and cross-cultural business practices. The

reality is that the possession of these skills, knowledge and expertise is fundamental to sustaining

relevance within both local and international market. This explains why I intend to apply for the

MSc International Business at the University of Plymouth. I strongly believe that this course will

provide me with the strategic competencies needed to become a globally competitive business

professional. I have recently realised that while my academic background in Business

Administration had exposed me to some practical realities of business operations, my

professional experience in the banking sector revealed some limitations that made me come to a

conclusion that operating in a rapidly ever-changing business environment with only

foundational business knowledge is underserving. It is this realization that has motivated my

decision to pursue an MSc in International Business at the University of Plymouth.

I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ahmadu Bello University in

2013. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a solid understanding of core business

disciplines such as management, marketing, finance, organizational behavior, entrepreneurship,

and strategic planning. My undergraduate education enabled me to gain theoretical foundations

that consequently enhanced my problem-solving abilities. Also, the study enabled me to

understand how market conditions influence business operations within dynamic economic

environments. This knowledge increased my interest in the international dimensions of business

operations and shaped mu career aspirations and academic interests. Not only that, working in
the banking sector was a really good experience. My stay with LAPO Microfinance Bank, one of

the leading microfinance institutions in Nigeria, allowed me to gain some practical financial

operations and business support services through my interaction with business owners and

private individuals. These interactions helped me to develop strong interpersonal,

communication and organisational skills. The need to further enhance these skills motivates me

to pursue an MSc in International Business.

Beyond my banking experience, I have been actively involved in grocery business management

since 2015. During this period, I realised that managing a business is a herculean task. My

involvement in the business exposed me to some realities of entrepreneurship. It was realised

that operating a business is not usually done in vacuum, rather, it involves strategic thinking and

resilience due to various environmental, social, economic and social factors such as economic

fluctuations, political instability, changing consumer behaviour and infrastructural challenges.

Undoubtedly, these challenges affected my grocery business and the need to understand how

these problems are solved through international business frameworks serves as a motivation for

me to pursue an MSc in International Business at the University of Plymouth.

Choosing the University of Plymouth is one of the best decisions I have made so far. This is

because the University of Plymouth is exceptional in providing academic excellence. As a

renowned university, the school is known for its ability to prepare learners for global careers

through practical learning approach. I am also attracted to the university’s emphasis on

innovation, entrepreneurship, international trade, strategic management, and sustainable business

practices. While other universities have focused mainly on theoretical approaches to business
education, University of Plymouth offers practical learning that encourages global business

exposure and industry engagement. These practices make the University of Plymouth an

excellent choice for me. Also, I am greatly impressed buy the university’s modules, which

covers essential areas such as international marketing, international trade, business analytics

among others. These areas are highly relevant to my professional goals because they will equip

me with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex global business environments.

Another factor that attracts me to the University of Plymouth is its diverse international learning

environment. I believe studying alongside students from different cultural and professional

backgrounds will broaden my global perspective and enhance my understanding of cross-cultural

communication and international business practices. Exposure to international perspectives will

significantly improve my ability to work effectively within multicultural environments and

manage global business relationships. The practical orientation of the programme is also

particularly appealing to me. I appreciate that the university emphasises experiential learning,

critical analysis, teamwork, and real-world business application. I believe this approach will

enable me to connect academic theories with practical business realities. Given my professional

background in banking and entrepreneurship, I am confident that I will contribute meaningfully

to classroom discussions while also benefiting from the knowledge and experiences of faculty

members and fellow students.

Critically, I view this programme not merely as an academic pursuit but as a strategic investment

in my long-term career development. Nigeria’s business environment is increasingly influenced

by globalization, technological innovation, and international trade relationships. However, many

businesses still struggle with international expansion, strategic competitiveness, and sustainable
growth. Through this programme, I hope to develop the expertise needed to contribute

meaningfully to business development and economic growth within my country. Upon

completion of my MSc in International Business, I intend to pursue a career in international

business development, strategic consulting, or global market operations. I also intend to expand

my entrepreneurial activities by building a more structured and scalable business capable of

competing beyond local markets. In the long term, I hope to support small and medium-scale

enterprises in developing sustainable business strategies, improving market competitiveness, and

accessing international opportunities. Also, I aspire to become involved in initiatives that

promote entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and business sustainability within emerging

economies. My experience in microfinance banking has shown me the importance of

empowering small businesses with both financial resources and strategic business knowledge. I

believe that advanced education in international business will position me to contribute more

effectively to this objective.

I am confident that the MSc International Business programme at the University of Plymouth

will provide the intellectual foundation, global exposure, and professional competencies

necessary to achieve my ambitions. I possess the discipline, determination, adaptability, and

motivation required to excel academically and contribute positively to the university community.

I am eager to deepen my understanding of global business operations, strategic management, and

international market systems within an intellectually stimulating environment such as the

University of Plymouth. I strongly believe that this programme will serve as a vital platform for

my personal growth, professional advancement, and long-term contribution to business

development and economic transformation.