QMU graduate shares how a Scottish education shaped his global career during First Minister’s visit to India
A Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh (QMU) graduate who has built an international career in higher education has shared his experience of studying in Scotland at a high-profile event in Mumbai during the First Minister of Scotland’s visit to India.
Salil Gupta, who graduated from QMU in 2006 with a degree in Hotel and Hospitality Management, is now Chief Advisor for South Asia and the Middle East at the University of Arizona and recently graduated from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education. He took part in the 'Scottish Education, Global Careers' alumni panel as part of the First Minister’s visit on Monday 26 October, sharing his perspective on how a Scottish education can shape career opportunities around the world.
The panel formed part of 'Scotland and India: Developing Talent for the Future Economy', an event bringing together Scottish university representatives, policymakers, employers and Indian alumni of Scottish universities to discuss graduate career outcomes, industry-university collaboration and the role of international education in developing skills for the future economy.
Held at the Jio World Convention Centre, the event was organised in partnership by Universities Scotland, Robert Gordon University and the Scottish Government, and attended by Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney MSP.
I’ve taken a lot from my time studying in Scotland, and it was great to be able to share my experience with political leaders, policy makers, employers and others. My own career has taken me into international higher education, so I understand the importance of the connections universities build with industry and the opportunities they can create for graduates and for economic development. My positive experience studying at QMU exemplifies how the skills and experience students gain during their studies help kickstart their future careers.
At this prestigious event, it was particularly valuable to be part of a discussion that brought together universities, employers and alumni to talk about how education can support the needs of a changing global workforce. Having stayed connected with QMU since graduating, including through a project with Harvard last year, the event also provided a a great opportunity to support the University’s work in India and share some of my own experiences with the next generation of students.
Salil remains actively engaged with his alma mater. In 2025, he partnered with QMU on a Harvard student field project exploring opportunities to strengthen the University's profile in India, deepen alumni engagement and support future student recruitment.
We are delighted that Salil was able to play a part in this important event and share his story, reflecting the continuing connections between the University and its graduates around the world.
For further media information contact Emma Reekie, Media and Content Officer, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, E: ereekie@qmu.ac.uk (copy to E: pressoffice@qmu.ac.uk).
