Laurel Draper

Head and shoulders image of Laurel Draper

Sports Management BA – 2026

Some of the highlights were the trips to places like Wimbledon, Chelsea, and Twickenham.

Why did you choose the University of Westminster? 

I chose Westminster primarily because of the interactions I had during the Open Day. My course leader, Anees, was incredibly supportive and engaging, which made the course feel genuinely welcoming—something I didn’t experience at other universities I visited. The course itself felt tailored to the needs of students, especially in terms of the flexible timetable and module options. Another major factor was the University’s central location, which is not only easily accessible but also surrounded by countless opportunities and areas to explore.  

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course? 

Sports Management is a course designed to explore the sporting industry combining sporting and business principles to understand the behind the scenes. What I’ve enjoyed most about this course are the friendships I’ve made, the progress I’ve seen in myself academically, and the great experiences we’ve had along the way. The learning environment has been really supportive, and it’s helped me build confidence in what I’m doing. Some of the highlights for me were the trips to places like Wimbledon, Chelsea, and Twickenham—it was amazing to visit those iconic venues and see how what we’re learning applies in real life.  

How have you found academic support as part of your studies? 

The academic support I’ve received has played a huge role in the progress I’ve made throughout the Sports Management course. One of the best things about the course is the strong relationship between students and lecturers—they’re always approachable and genuinely willing to help, whether it’s with academic work or personal challenges. This supportive environment has really made a difference in my confidence and performance, which is reflected in my academic results. Personally, the support from my course leader was key in helping me secure an internship, which gave me valuable real-world experience and helped deepen my understanding of the course content. 

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course  

One of the highlights of the course has been the trips to major sporting venues like Chelsea, Twickenham, and Wimbledon. These visits gave us valuable behind-the-scenes insights into how sports organisations operate, helping us understand the business side of the industry beyond just what happens on the pitch. They also gave us the chance to bond with fellow course members, building strong friendships and a real sense of community, which has made the overall experience even more enjoyable. 

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster? 

My advice would be to go for it. Take the risk and follow the opportunity—you won’t regret it. The growth you’ll see in yourself, both academically and in terms of confidence, is honestly worth it. It’s an experience that pushes you in the best way and helps you realise what you’re capable of. 

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student? 

The best aspect of being a Westminster student is the sense of community within the course. The support we provide each other—whether it’s sharing advice, collaborating on projects, or just being there when needed—creates a truly welcoming and encouraging environment. 

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience? 

The most unexpected part of my Westminster journey has been securing an internship. Initially, I wasn’t planning on taking one because I’m a commuting student, but I ended up finding a great opportunity in my area. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I’ve been fully supported by my course leader in securing the role.