Sport business management graduate Sinwai Cheung has a lifelong passion for football. Now, thanks to his masters, he works as a sales executive for a professional football club in north London.

What made you choose the MSc Sport Business Management?

‘There is a love story between me and Sheffield Hallam, I think. In 2012 I started a degree here training to be a PE teacher, but I decided it wasn’t for me – I just wanted to work in football. So with the help of a bursary, I moved on to the MA in Sport Business Management.’

How was your experience on the course?

‘I loved it. It’s hands-on, and it prepared me for real-life work. I could find my own way of studying. The support I have received throughout my time here has been amazing. And I got lots of experience such as working for Sheffield United and Sheffield International Venues.

‘I also had amazing support. I had a mentor who motivated and inspired me to constantly better myself by doing a masters. We still work closely together even though I’ve graduated and gone into work.’

How did your course help you secure your dream job at a major football club?

‘For me, the work-based learning on the course really bridged that gap between being a uni student and real-life work.’

‘In my job, I work in the commercial side of football. The main remit of my job is to find new business for the club. On my course I learned a lot about finance, strategy, marketing and research in sport, and I can apply this knowledge into my real life work. It’s given me the confidence to research and think outside the box.'

How would you describe your time at Sheffield Hallam in one word?

‘Incredible. When I started I was shy and not very confident. I have seen myself grow – the university has shaped me and my future. I met all my life friends here. And I’ll always be grateful to the people at Hallam who helped me get where I am today.’