What was your study and/or professional background prior to this programme?
I did an undergraduate in Environmental Geosciences at the University of Edinburgh. I decided to take a year out after completing that and gained some experience doing various internships in international relations/ sustainability consulting and then worked in a bank for a little bit before deciding to pursue a master.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?
Its reputation is great, and my particular programme is not offered at many places, especially not with the same level of staff teaching.
About the course
What was it about the degree programme that particularly attracted you?
The staff on the programme were doing amazing research and had industry experience. It also seemed to combine practical and theoretical concepts which I was really looking for.
How many people are on your programme (approx.), and what is the diversity mix like?
There is 50 people on my course. Whilst there are people from many different countries, the majority are from Asia, the UK and the US.
What does a typical day look like for you on this programme?
Most of the days I have a few lectures and spend quite some time doing readings and research. At the moment we have a lot of group projects, so most days I have a meeting or two to work of those projects as well.
How much time do you spend in lectures and how much time do you spend studying each week (approx.)?
15-20 in lecture 20+ studying and preparing.
How feasible do you think it is to work part-time while pursing your Masters?
The master often requires a very flexible schedule, especially if you also want to attend the extra offers the business school provides. Whilst I think it is possible, it definitely requires a flexible job and good time management from your part. The University offers some of those jobs though and they are usually quite flexible.
What course have you enjoyed the most so far and why?
Carbon pricing, the lecturer was an amazing presenter and really encouraged you to think and develop ideas to understand the topic.
Student experience
Is there a specific experience you’ve had so far on the programme that stands out?
I’ve really enjoyed listening to different guest speakers. Having industry insights and being exposed to different jobs is super helpful in making me understand better what exactly I want to go into.
Have you joined any clubs or societies? What do you like to do outside of your studies? How do you spend your weekends?
I am part of the Salsa Society and their choreography team. It’s a great balance for me and I have met some of my best friends through this.
Have you done any travel to other parts of Scotland or the UK since arriving in Edinburgh?
I’ve done the North 500 and it was so impressive! The landscapes you cross are just amazing and so diverse. I stayed in the very north for a few weeks and spent the days hiking and enjoying being so remote – highly recommend.
What kind of accommodation are you living in and why did you choose that option?
I live in a flat with my partner. Since I have been in Edinburgh for a few years now, I had explored different parts of the city and enjoyed having my own place.
How did you go about making friends and building a community in Edinburgh?
Being open and joining in on activities. Experiences make you bond with people and also the people on my course were super nice so it was easy to get to know them.
Looking ahead
What are you hoping to do after you graduate from this programme?
I hope to find a job that is intellectually stimulating and lets me apply the knowledge I got from my education, especially this masters.
Do you have any tips for people considering applying to the Business School?
I would recommend reading through the programs in detail, and potentially reaching out to staff or students on the course to ask them more about subject etc. It helped me make sure I pick the right degree and I am super happy with the course I picked.