Seven questions with Rakat Zhaksybay

Why are you interested in this subject and what do you plan to do in the future?

I was working in media industry in Kazakhstan, for about 8 years and I wanted to expand my skillset and gain knowledge which can help me to think, evaluate and analyse in a more strategic way. I thought an MSc Strategic Management of Projects would help me hone those skills and I plan to use this knowledge after my degree to further my career path.

My first degree was in Kazakh language, the second was in Russian, and now I am in Britain studying. I have also studied cartography in my home country of Kazakhstan, so I have a diverse range of interests.

What is the most interesting thing you've done, seen or got involved with while at UCL?

I think getting to experience the wide variety of guest speakers available at UCL has been the most interesting aspect of my time in London so far. As part of my Masters programme, students have a chance to hear from almost 40 guest speakers hailing from a wide range of industries who have considerable experiences in their field. The sessions have allowed me to get precious insight from the best professionals in their fields.

I've also really enjoyed site visits which are also a part of my programme. I've already visited the Cabinet Office/HM Treasury and the Supreme Court. I also got the chance to visit the Infrastructure and Projects Authority which supports project development and delivery across the whole of government. They are responsible for 143 governmental major projects, which cost £405bn and the visit allowed me to discover useful information about how does government delivers projects and programmes.        

Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL?

One of the places where I have been spending a lot at UCL is the Main Library. I think everyone can discover his or her unique gems by reading lots of books.

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

1. Hyde Park: the park is one of the largest parks in London and has beautiful views. You can enjoy just walking around or you can boat in the lake and cycle around the park.
2. British Museum: if you are interested in history, definitely visit this Bloomsbury gem. I think it is the one of the must-see places not only in London, but in the world.
3. Edgware Road: it's near where I live, and I really enjoy the restaurants and cafes in the area, especially for halal food.

If you were Provost for the day what one thing would you do?

Systems and institutions are not built in a day, so change can be slow. Being one of the top universities in the world, UCL has very deep roots and an engrained way of doing things and it can be hard to affect change quickly. However, as a Provost I would focus all of my efforts and work on the educational environment.

Who inspires you and why?

I usually try to find positives in my life and I get inspiration from people who are keen on doing good things and making a difference in the world. Of course, my family and friends also inspire me a lot too. I think life is to be enjoyed and we should find inspiration in as many ways as possible.

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I like challenges and regularly try to get out of my comfort zone. It is not easy, but I think it allows me to test myself and develop. Also, I am really keen on politics.