Transformative, cultural and fulfilling: My MSc experience at WBS

08 August 2024

MSc Business with Operations Management alumni, Saraschandra Kakumanu, reflects upon his time at WBS, and his experience of the global hub that is the Warwick campus.

Pursuing an MSc at Warwick Business School has been a fabulous journey so far, one that could be summed up as exceptional. The course not only stands out for its rigorous academic curriculum, but also for the remarkable opportunity it presents to learn amidst an incredibly talented peer group.

The faculty at WBS are not just leaders in their respective fields, but are also highly approachable and consistently go the extra mile to assist students. The modules, while challenging, are designed to offer a steep learning curve that significantly enhanced my analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

Working together with my cohort

My participation in the A4S International Case Competition has been particularly memorable. This competition emerged as a highlight of my academic journey, challenging my team and me to develop innovative solutions focused on enhancing gender diversity at General Motors, the automobile manufacturing company.

It wasn't just an academic exercise, it was a real-world challenge that asked us to consider the impact of businesses on human rights and how businesses could be made sustainable while addressing the human rights issues, in our strategic planning.

Working alongside four talented peers, we combined our diverse knowledge and perspectives to tackle the case, demonstrating the power of teamwork, critical thinking, and strategic insight. Reaching the semi-finals was not only a testament to our collective effort but also an invaluable opportunity to present our solutions to an audience of industry professionals and academics.

This experience underscored the practical applications of our coursework in addressing contemporary business challenges and emphasized the importance of sustainable and ethical decision-making in leadership.

The A4S International Case Competition was more than just a contest; it was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of how innovative and ethical decision-making can drive significant change in the business landscape.

Embracing the diversity of the WBS community

Beyond the confines of the classroom, WBS offers a range of extracurricular activities that provide a holistic educational experience. Engaging in these activities has been an excellent addition to my learning experience, allowing me to develop a well-rounded skill set while building a lasting bond with my peers.

My time at WBS has been remarkably enriched by a perfect blend of challenging academic work and genuinely delightful activities aimed at bolstering student well-being. Among the most unexpected yet thoroughly enjoyable experiences were the introduction of alpaca visits to the campus.

This innovative approach, aimed at reducing exam stress, offered a refreshing pause that I hadn’t foreseen but deeply valued. Much appreciation to the programme team for focusing on the well-being of the students during a stressful phase of our academic life at the WBS.

The cultural vibrancy of WBS was further highlighted by the magnificent opening ceremony of the Chinese New Year of the Dragon, an event that underscored the school’s commitment to celebrating diversity. Participating in this and other social events organized by student societies and program teams has been particularly invigorating.

As an international student from India, I found these celebrations a wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the WBS community. The Chinese New Year festivities, with their vibrant colors, traditional music, and dance, not only provided a lively break from studies but also fostered a deeper connection among students from various backgrounds.

This exposure to a multicultural environment is one of the distinct advantages of studying at WBS, making my time here not just an educational journey but also a global cultural experience.

Extracurricular activities at Warwick

Participating in extracurricular activities has significantly enhanced my WBS experience, particularly the Christmas market trip to Bristol late last year.

This excursion marked my first journey beyond Coventry, aside from London, and proved to be a pivotal bonding experience. It transformed my relationships with my cohort members, fostering a deeper sense of community and easing my transition into student life at WBS.

The sense of camaraderie was further strengthened through various social events, such as a pizza social in February and the elegantly orchestrated Spring Ball. Each event, with its unique charm, contributed to solidifying the bonds within our cohort.

The Spring Ball was especially memorable, not just for its festive atmosphere but also for the recognition my team and I received for reaching the semi-finals of the A4S International Case Competition. This accolade was a proud moment, celebrated amongst my friends and peers, making the event more special.

Reflecting on my journey, it's clear that these experiences have not only enriched my academic life but also provided invaluable opportunities for personal growth and networking. This journey, woven together with both academic milestones and extracurricular delights, promises a fulfilling and transformative experience at WBS.

 

 

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