• Tell us a bit about yourself

I started my career teaching Modern Foreign Languages before transitioning into the corporate world, seeking new challenges and perspectives. After a few years in operational positions, I joined the People Team and established an Organisational Development role. My responsibilities cover a variety of topics, from People Strategy, Learning and Development, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), and Culture, to Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG).

• What first attracted you to Warwick Business School?

I was looking for a course that would fit around my working responsibilities as I wasn't able to take a year away from employment and return to full-time study. That said, I also wanted the opportunity to meet fellow students and create those all-important lifelong networks. After some research, I found that the Warwick Business School (WBS) offering was the perfect balance of online and in-person teaching, enabling me to continue working but also providing the opportunities to attend Residential Weeks and even study modules abroad.

• Why did you ultimately choose Warwick Business School for your MBA?

WBS has an excellent ranking as a top-rated MBA, especially for those courses conducted predominantly online. I could also resonate with the school’s Values, especially its commitment to diversity. I can safely say, from my experience so far, that I have never experienced environments with such diverse perspectives, backgrounds, careers, and knowledge as I have during those days on campus, and it is incredibly enriching to exchange ideas and views with my fellow students. The CORE Values influenced my decision to choose WBS, and I can attest that the school genuinely embodies them.

• What elements of the programme do you value the most and why? 

There is a good balance between the core modules, which cover a broad range of business areas from Leadership to Operations Management, and the opportunity to select some electives tailored to your preferences. This enables you to discover aspects of business that may be less familiar while providing some flexibility to customise the course. Despite the majority of course delivery being conducted online, thanks to Residential Weeks and overseas modules, you still feel connected to other students and part of a community.

• What is it like studying for an MBA? How do you find the work/life balance?

The course content is engaging and extremely relevant to day-to-day business and you really feel that your perspectives and horizons are broadening with each module completed. It provides you with a toolkit to draw from and balances both historic research with recent developments to give you a comprehensive insight into the ever-evolving world of business. Your time management skills will certainly be tested as it can be challenging to balance the course demands with work and personal life commitments. That said, it’s such a rewarding experience and one I’d wholeheartedly recommend for those ready to embrace it!

• What do you hope to get out of our programme? What have you actually got so far?

Upon starting the MBA, I knew that I was seeking both personal and professional growth. Approaching the end of the first year of the course, I already feel a stronger sense of self-confidence and resilience and have honed key competencies such as strategic thinking, analytical skills, and financial acumen. This is thanks to the teaching styles and depth of content on offer, where academic research meets practical application meaning that we gain comprehensive, real-world skills and knowledge that are immediately applicable to our careers.

• Do you have any advice for anyone currently thinking about studying for an MBA?

Make sure you plan ahead! It is achievable, but the workload can be intense. This is particularly difficult when you’re facing those inevitable pinch points when assignment and work deadlines coincide. As long as you are prepared for a rigorous schedule and plan accordingly then you will be able to surmount any challenges faced. The course is also designed to be flexible, so if you do encounter those moments when you need a little more time, or anticipate a particularly busy period, you can self-certify for a few additional days or move modules to different times of the year.

Take advantage of all the support services on offer, not just from WBS itself but also from your fellow students; it’s a great network to have, and you can draw from others and access support relevant to your circumstances and needs. Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Yes, the study weeks are important academically, but be sure to make the most of the opportunity to socialise and enjoy the student experience. Studying remotely can sometimes feel isolating, so forming those connections and turning fellow students into friends helps build a community you can rely upon when you return to online learning.