Studying abroad on MSc Management

Each year a number of our MSc Management students head overseas to different partner institutions as part of the International Management module. We sat down with some of these students to hear about their experiences and the importance of the module for their WBS MSc journey.

What were your key takeaways?

Mai: During my time at Nova School of Business and Economics, Lisbon, we had one class segment, where we were randomly assigned into groups for one-on-one interviews with our classmates.

In a globalised business environment, Eastern cultures may promote team cohesion and collaboration. However, the experience in Portugal has encouraged us to guide our own learning journeys, fostering innovation and exchange through open dialogue. These cultural differences influence the significance of cross-country business practices and interactions.

Fern: My experience while at IE Business School, Madrid, has taught me the importance of adapting my management and communication strategies to align with the cultural backgrounds of my colleagues.

Dai: While at HEC Paris Business School, we as students were encouraged to work as teams to offer solutions to real-world cases shared with us via several start-up leaders.

I realised the significant benefits of using data in a business context and how to optimise this model to address current challenges faced by these start-ups and assist them in overcoming these issues.

Did you gain any cultural insights?

Jiacheng: My experience at Aalto University School of Business, Helsinki, profoundly impressed me by allowing me to truly experience Finland’s practice of implementing its happiness education philosophy that respects individual personality and encourages creativity.

This practice inspired me on how to put a concept or philosophy into practice that can create real value for the target audience.

Ayush: My trip to University of Cape Town, was a deeply insightful and profound experience, uncovering a rich tapestry of social, political and cultural dynamics that left a long-lasting impact on me.

Ilmela: Experiencing the International Management module at Solvay, Brussels, Belgium, highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability in diverse environments with customs that are different from one's home country.

It was an enriching experience that deepened my relationships with my course mates, offered new perspectives on sustainability in finance, and broadened my global network through interactions with local students and academics.

Siow: I want to express my gratitude for this wonderful opportunity to learn more about the subject of innovation and social enterprise at the University of Cape Town. This has expanded my horizons, deepened my knowledge of South Africa's history, and given me a broader perspective in addition to improving my professional expertise.

Did you get chance to explore?

Moosad: We were encouraged to venture out while at SDA Bocconi School of Management. Considering its location in the heart of Milan, and the city’s vast history in business, this was an insightful and transformative experience.

Mai: After class, many students would often head to the beach, which reflects the Portuguese people's balance between work and life, as well as their enjoyment of the moment.

I observed that all the students were highly enthusiastic and energetic, unconfined by their environment or location. They seemed to be very comfortable discussing and socialising.

Dai: The seamless integration of art, technology, and storytelling within Paris created an unforgettable experience that left me with wonder.

Fern: The study trip to Madrid had three significant impacts on me: it opened my eyes and enhanced my observation skills, it reinforced the philosophy that we should work to live, not live to work.

Inspired by the lifestyle I observed in Madrid, I plan to adopt new habits that prioritise work-life balance.

How would you summarise your trip?

Batsalya: As I look to begin my career in the financial sector, my trip to Solvay Brussels School of Economics & Management and the concepts I have learnt have been extremely informative and have allowed me to be more critical of initiatives I come across in the news or in class.

Ilmela: The trip was definitely a highlight of the academic year with amazing teaching, memorable visits, and great conversations.

Ayush: Overall, my trip to South Africa was a transformative experience. My interactive conversations with academic lecturers have broadened my understanding of fostering innovation that positively contributes to social changes in the society.

Mai: I am amazed at the knowledge and experience I've gained in just one week, and I look forward to contributing to the development of tackling these issues in the future.  Through this trip, I gained many insights to motivate myself to make a change.