Moving to London: Finding My Stride at Imperial College Business School

Saina Kalra is currently pursuing an MSc Strategic Marketing at Imperial College Business School. She has transitioned into this programme in London, blending innovative marketing strategies with advanced business insights. Join us as we explore her journey, the challenges she faces, and the triumphs she achieves in this exciting new chapter of her academic career.

I never imagined I would one day be shaping real marketing strategies in one of the world's most dynamic cities. My journey has been a whirlwind: a Global BBA across Singapore and France, stints at luxury powerhouses like LVMH and Estée Lauder, the fast-paced energy of Crocs, and advising giants like HSBC and Google Pay at the WPP group. But I felt something was missing; I wanted to be at the forefront of where marketing could make a real difference. Impact was my driving force and when I discovered Imperial College Business School, with its cutting-edge MSc Strategic Marketing,  I knew it was the perfect fit.
London swept me off my feet. It's full of history, innovation, and is a kaleidoscope of cultures. South Kensington, our campus location, is close to grand museums such as the Natural History Museum and Science Museum, bustling cafes, and Hyde Park's, offering a moment's respite.

Being embedded in a world-leading STEM institution, Imperial College London, infuses everything we do with a spirit of innovation. Imagine brainstorming sustainable packaging solutions fuelled by insights from our Materials Science department, or working with engineers on the next generation of AR-driven retail experiences. Those cross-disciplinary connections aren't just a perk; they're integral to the Imperial way of thinking.

The programme at the Business School itself is the perfect counterpoint. One minute I'm dissecting the psychology of consumer behaviour, and the next, I'm building data-driven digital strategies. We have electives on everything from Luxury Brand Management to the intricacies of AI in marketing. If there's a niche that sparks your curiosity, chances are there's an expert here to guide you.

There are many Clubs and Societies to participate in beyond the classroom. As President of the India Business Careers Club, I'm bridging the gap between theory and the vibrant Indian business scene. The Dean's Advisory Council lets me advocate for student well-being alongside some of the sharpest minds on campus. And through my role as an Imperial Move & Athletes ambassador, you're as likely to find me cheering on our sports teams as debating brand strategies in a seminar.

My time at Imperial is still unfolding, but the change is already palpable. It’s an ecosystem that champions ambition, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This isn’t just about securing a fancy job title (though those opportunities are abundant). It’s about becoming a leader who understands the intricate dance between business and the betterment of society.

What sets Imperial apart is the sense of a larger purpose. Our professors aren't just academics; they're leaders who've shaped global brands and advised governments. This exposure, coupled with the cohort that hails from all corners of the world, has fundamentally altered my perspective on what marketing can achieve. No longer is it just about selling products; it's about driving sustainable consumption, about ethical communication, about using business as a force for good.

So if you're like the younger me, a dreamer with a hunger to make your mark, know this: a top-10 global university like Imperial doesn't just give you a degree. It gives you a launchpad to redefine what's possible – both within you and in the world.