Driving Business Growth: An Interview with Maitry Upreti, Head of Business Growth at Vita Student

An Interview with Maitry Upreti, Head of Business Growth at Vita Student, Luxury Student Accommodation

In this interview, Maitry Upreti, Head of Business Growth at Vita Student, shares her journey of driving strategic expansion and innovation in the student housing sector.

With a strong focus on enhancing the student living experience, Maitry discusses the key factors that have contributed to Vita Student’s rapid growth and its vision for the future.

Can you share your journey to becoming the Head of Business Growth for Vita Student?

Maitry Upreti: My journey to becoming the Head of Business Growth for Vita Student has been quite an adventure! I’ve always had a passion for education and a desire to help students achieve their dreams. That passion led me to this role.

I started my career in the education sector, where I quickly learned about the challenges students face when studying abroad. This experience sparked my interest in student accommodation and the importance of creating spaces that support both academic success and personal growth.

When I joined Vita Student in 2022, I was really impressed by our commitment to providing high-quality living spaces that do more than just offer a roof over students’ heads. I saw a fantastic opportunity to expand our presence in India, especially with so many Indian students looking to study overseas.

In 2023, we took a big step by opening our first office in India. This move helps us connect directly with students and educational institutions, allowing us to tailor our offerings to better meet their needs.

I’m happy to lead a passionate team dedicated to building relationships with local partners and promoting our award-winning accommodations. Our mission is simple, we believe in giving students not just a place to live but a vibrant community where they can thrive academically and socially.

It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of this journey, helping students feel at home while they pursue their educational goals abroad.

How do you assess the demand for premium student accommodation in India compared to the UK and Europe?

Maitry Upreti: The demand for premium student accommodation in India is on the rise, fueled by a growing number of students pursuing higher education abroad and an increasing willingness among families to invest in quality living spaces.

Compared to the UK and Europe, where the market for premium accommodation is well-established, India presents a unique opportunity due to its expanding student population and evolving expectations for modern amenities and community-oriented living.

At Vita Student, we are strategically positioned to meet this demand by offering high-quality accommodations that cater to the needs of Indian students studying abroad.

What trends are you currently observing in the student accommodation market?

Maitry Upreti: The student accommodation market is seeing significant changes that reflect what students want. First, there’s a growing demand for premium living. More students are looking for high-quality places that offer comfort and modern amenities, not just a roof over their heads.

Another trend is the focus on community and well-being. Students prefer living environments that encourage social interaction and support mental health. They want to feel connected and supported during their studies.

Sustainability is also becoming a priority. Many providers, including Vita Student, are adopting eco-friendly practices and sustainable designs to meet the needs of environmentally conscious students.

Lastly, there’s a rise in technological integration. Smart technology and digital services are becoming standard in student accommodations, making life easier and enhancing the overall living experience.

How does Vita Student differentiate itself from other student accommodation providers?

Maitry Upreti: Vita Student differentiates itself through our commitment to creating a holistic living experience that combines comfort, community, and personal development. Our residences feature all-in services, vibrant communal spaces, and dedicated support for residents.

We focus on fostering connections among students through organised events and activities that encourage engagement and personal growth.

Unlike many others, we prioritise providing a place to live and nurturing an environment where students can thrive academically and socially.

What opportunities do you see for growth in the student accommodation sector in the coming years?

Maitry Upreti: The student accommodation sector is set for significant growth driven by several key factors. First, increasing international student enrollment means more students seek quality housing solutions as they pursue education abroad.

Additionally, students’ evolving preferences are shaping the market; they are looking for accommodations that offer flexibility, community engagement, and wellness-focused amenities.

Moreover, there is a substantial investment in infrastructure, with ongoing development of purpose-built student accommodations that enhance living experiences across various markets.

Lastly, a growing focus on health and well-being presents opportunities to create living spaces prioritising mental health support and overall wellness.

Together, these trends indicate a dynamic shift in the student accommodation landscape, paving the way for innovative solutions that cater to modern student needs.

What advice would you give aspiring professionals looking to enter the student accommodation industry?

Maitry Upreti: For aspiring professionals entering the student accommodation industry, I recommend focusing on understanding the unique needs of students and developing a customer-centric approach. Networking within the industry is essential for gaining insights into market trends and best practices.

Additionally, staying informed about technological advancements and sustainability practices can provide a competitive edge.

Finally, fostering strong relationships with educational institutions will help create tailored solutions that address students’ needs effectively.

What message do you want to convey to students searching for accommodation options as they pursue their studies abroad?

Maitry Upreti:To students searching for accommodation options abroad, I encourage you to prioritise not only comfort but also community and support systems.

Look for places like Vita Student that offer opportunities to connect with fellow residents, engage in activities, and access resources that enhance your university experience.

Remember that your living environment significantly impacts your overall well-being; choose a space that aligns with your lifestyle and aspirations as you embark on this exciting journey.

How is Vita Student expanding its presence in India, and what percentage of Indian students currently make up Vita Student’s overall accommodation occupancy?

Maitry Upreti: Vita Student is expanding its presence in India by establishing a local office to understand better and target Indian students seeking international education.

This strategic move allows Vita Student to leverage local knowledge and build relationships with partners, ensuring that they cater effectively to the needs of their customers.

With the increasing number of Indian students studying abroad—over 765,000 recorded in 2023—Vita Student is well-positioned to meet this demand.

Notably, some of our properties are seeing nearly 10% occupancy from Indian students, reflecting our commitment to creating welcoming environments for diverse communities.

As we continue to grow, we focus on providing high-quality accommodations that support academic success and foster a vibrant community for all residents.

Maitry Upreti’s leadership and forward-thinking approach have been pivotal in Vita Student’s success. Her insights into business growth highlight the importance of innovation, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the student market.

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