Sara Abdulnabi

Country: Bahrain
Sector: Government
Job title: Junior Executive
Subject of study: English Literature with French, Middle East Studies
Year of graduation: 2020, 2021
Type/Level of study: Postgraduate Research, Undergraduate

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Bahrain Economic Development Board

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

Since graduating from my BA and MRes in Exeter, I worked for a year at the University of Exeter in the Financial Operations department, before moving back home to Bahrain. I then started working at Bahrain Economic Development Board, Business Development – Financial Services department. Since 2025, I shifted to the Golden Residency department.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

What I enjoy the most about my career is working on governmental policies, having exposure to the public and private sectors in Bahrain, as well as working with international governments, companies and clients. I enjoy the dynamic nature of my job, as well as the opportunity for growth and developing a multitude of skills.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was a member of Taekwondo club and RAZZ Magazine.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

What i enjoyed the most about my programs was the high-quality of tutors and professors, as well as all the research that took place by them. The courses were dynamic, and offered many module options to fit every student’s interest. I especially enjoyed how supportive the faculty is and their passion for their fields, as well as their support for the students.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

I enjoyed the supportive environment and I was really passionate about my courses. I loved the campus as well as the city, and the options for societies and extra-curriculars that offered something for everyone.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

Because its was top rated for my courses, and has a good campus, as well as the location within the South West and being surrounded by nature.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

While my degrees were in a different field to my current career, there have been a lot of transferrable skills such as research, presentation and writing as well as analytical thinking. Studying humanities and social sciences has also helped me in working with people, which is a core focus of my career.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Keep an open mind, and maintain the same interest and passion for learning on the job. While its a different mode of learning to university, the curiosity and openness helps you to excel in your career as well as grow. Be open to challenges, differences and exposure to new things.

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