About me and why I chose Imperial

I was born on the East coast of India and went to boarding school in North India. There I was a massive debater, MUNner and quizzer. I also setup a non profit organisation to tackle period stigma by providing gamified and gender-inclusive menstrual education. While I was very scientifically inclined for the most part of school, I developed a quick and deep interest in economics in my final two years. My desire to study economics in a scientific backdrop made BSc Economics, Finance and Data Science at Imperial College Business School a top choice.

Additionally, I was drawn to Imperial’s focus on teaching one how to think, rather than what to think – a skill that is crucial for navigating the growing uncertainties in job and financial markets and by extension, the world.

Take advantage of the diverse range of experiences available both at Imperial and in London, as they can enrich your time at university. Stay organised to keep on top of your workload, but also make sure to allow yourself time to relax and enjoy the overall university experience.

One thing I wish I knew before starting University

I wish I had a clearer sense of direction for my university experience and future. While it's not necessary to have everything figured out, having some general goals can be incredibly helpful. When I started at Imperial, I was trying to do everything without a clear purpose. I've since learned that even a vague notion of your aspirations helps in allocating your time and energy more effectively.

Having some idea of what you want to achieve allows you to prioritise activities and opportunities that align with your goals, whether they're academic, career-oriented, or personal. It's okay for these goals to change – university is a time of growth and self-discovery. The point isn't to lock yourself into a rigid plan, but to have an anchor point that guides your decisions.

My advice would be to spend some time reflecting on what you want out of your university experience before you arrive. What skills do you want to develop? What experiences do you want to have? Having even rough answers to these questions can make your first year feel more purposeful and less overwhelming.

Embrace the challenges and opportunities that university life offers. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and try new things—it’s all part of the experience. Remember that everyone is in the same boat, and it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Seeking help when you need it can make a big difference.

Balancing my academic and personal life

The key to adjusting to university life was identifying my priorities—what I enjoyed and what added the most value to me.

In Year 1, the course is designed in such a way that if you follow the instructions, like completing pre-readings and doing problem sets on the recommended dates, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy a thriving social life and attend society events. Where I sometimes struggled was when I missed a pre-reading and had trouble keeping up in lectures, leading me to spend far more time reviewing.

I found that doing tasks as they come, rather than letting them pile up, is a solid strategy for Year 1—though I only developed this habit through some trial and error.

Making friends with course mates also made the academic workload feel less overwhelming and more manageable. Additionally, scheduling and using a calendar to block out time for relaxation are essential. London offers endless opportunities for rejuvenation to suit everyone's tastes. If you're looking for people to share downtime with, your hallmates, course peers, and society members are great places to start.

Adjusting to the academic expectations of university compared to secondary school

To adjust well to university-level academics, I had to come to a few important realisations. First, aiming to be the best is an unrealistic and hollow goal—there will always be someone better at something, but that doesn’t diminish your own merit. It’s also perfectly okay to seek academic help; the faculty are well-equipped and willing to support you.

I found that pre-reading is key to familiarity, which in turn drives understanding—some university content may be completely new, but tackling the recommended readings beforehand, even if they’re confusing, makes lectures far more efficient. Lastly, starting group projects early and completing problem sets on the recommended dates eases a lot of the pressure around assessment time.

Building good relationships with professors and classmates

Building good relationships with professors and classmates is easier said than done, but it’s essential to let go of any reservations or fears about how you might be perceived. Taking a genuine interest in people’s lives, while respecting their time and talents, helps lay a strong foundation for meaningful connections.

Attending professors’ office hours or meeting with tutorial leaders to clarify concepts or discuss optional readings is a great way to engage with teaching staff. Additionally, being active in class discussions not only deepens your understanding but also helps facilitate natural conversations with both peers and professors.

Resources and support systems

You might not always have the energy to attend events, but on days when you do, the "What's On" page on the Imperial College Union website provides a master list of activities ordered by date. One of the great things about university compared to high school is the abundance of people and freedom, which means there’s something for everyone.

Attending events in the first week helped me discover things I was naturally inclined toward, and as the year went on, I stumbled upon many more. It’s a good idea to keep your eyes and ears open for new opportunities and be willing to say yes to anything that sounds interesting. I found most of the events I enjoyed through posters around campus and by following society Instagram accounts. Additionally, there are formal systems in place to support students.

For BSc Economics, Finance and Data Science students, each has an academic adviser, a faculty member who may or may not be teaching the cohort. You can also reach out to tutorial leads and lecturers during their office hours for academic guidance. College-wide services like wellbeing and disability advisory support are available as well.

On a student level, Year reps, Departmental reps, and Union reps are there to voice both academic and wellbeing concerns. For career support, the Business School Careers team is a valuable resource. If you're staying in Halls, wardens and hall seniors are also there to help ease your transition into university life.

My advice to the incoming class

My advice would be to spend some time reflecting on what you want out of your university experience before you arrive. What skills do you want to develop? What experiences do you want to have? Having even rough answers to these questions can make your first year feel more purposeful and less overwhelming.

Embrace the challenges and opportunities that university life offers. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and try new things—it’s all part of the experience. Remember that everyone is in the same boat, and it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Seeking help when you need it can make a big difference.

Take advantage of the diverse range of experiences available both at Imperial and in London, as they can enrich your time at university. Stay organised to keep on top of your workload, but also make sure to allow yourself time to relax and enjoy the overall university experience.

Imperial College Business School and Discover Economics are working together to increase the diversity of economics students.  

The Discover Economics initiative is aimed at students from state schools and the workshops are designed to inspire young people to consider economics as one of their post-16 or post-18 options, whether that is at university or through an apprenticeship. We offer one-off workshops, bookable by teachers/school coordinators for groups in Year 10 and Year 12 – scroll down to find out more!  

What are Discover Economics workshops? 

Discover Economics workshops are interactive sessions designed to introduce students to the world of economics in an engaging way. The workshops aim to break down the barriers that often make economics seem intimidating or irrelevant. By focusing on real-world applications and issues, the workshops help students understand how economics impacts their daily lives and understand the global issues they care about such as climate change, inequality and the cost of living. 

Who leads our Discover Economics workshops? 

Our workshops are led by BSc Economics, Finance and Data Science Student Ambassadors. Our ambassadors are knowledgeable about economics and passionate about sharing their interest for the subject with younger students. Student Ambassadors are provided with the subject content beforehand, and they have all the essential training like presenting information and safeguarding.  

What do the workshops cover? 

Each workshop is carefully crafted to be both educational and engaging. School or college coordinators can select their preference of subject areas that they feel their students would find interesting. This includes topics such as: 

• Climate change,  

• the cost of living,  

• wealth inequality,  

• the gender pay gap,  

• panic buying,  

• and video games and violent behaviour. 

Our workshops include a short introduction of Student Ambassadors, real world applications and issues in economics, and information about careers in economics. The workshops last about 1 hour and are interactive, so students participate in discussions and problem-solving exercises.  

“The session went down well with our students and the Q&A at the end was really useful as they had a range of questions such as 'how does technology affect the validity of data when looking at causality' to 'How quantitative is the course?'. The three students did an excellent job answering each question in details.”   Teacher from St Mary’s and St John’s CE School  

Stella Dourtme, Global Online MBA student and a recipient of the Imperial Women’s Scholarship, shares her top advice for securing this prestigious award. The Imperial Global Online MBA Women’s Scholarships are awarded to women showing exceptional academic achievement and professional excellence, as well as a commitment to supporting women in business.

How did it feel when you found out you’d secured the  Imperial Women’s Scholarship?  

I was extremely excited and honoured to have been selected for this prestigious award at such an acclaimed institution! I felt empowered to pursue my dream and to be part of this amazing community of women leaders at the Imperial College Business School during my time as a student and beyond. 

What motivated you to apply for this scholarship at Imperial College Business School? 

In addition to providing financial support, scholarships offer an excellent opportunity to network with high-achieving colleagues and enhance one's competitive profile. Personally, I was particularly interested in the Imperial Women's Scholarship. This interest arises from my background in humanitarian work with UN Women in New York during the emergence of the MeToo movement where I met many influential businesswomen who are committed to women's empowerment. Additionally, my experience working with Zaha Hadid, a highly influential female architect in a predominantly male-dominated industry, further fuelled my advocating for more women in leadership and interest in this scholarship. 

To increase your chances, it is important to apply early and dedicate enough time to prepare.

What does this scholarship mean to you in terms of your academic and personal goals? 

As I pursue my MBA while working and facing the challenges of being a new mother, I represent a significant portion of applicants who are highly passionate about advancing their careers. However, it would have been impossible for me to be here without the financial support of the scholarship. Studying the Global Online MBA  programme will equip me with the knowledge and skills I need to achieve my goals of becoming a leader in the built environment design, technology, and real estate development sectors

What advice would you give to students who are aspiring to earn a scholarship? 

To increase your chances, it is important to apply early and dedicate enough time to prepare. Consider the full range of your skills and interests to effectively advocate for your candidacy. Engaging in activities outside of work is a great way to demonstrate leadership skills and personal interests beyond what you can achieve within your company or organisation. 

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.

Our MSc Strategic Marketing leverages the Business School's top marketing faculty and experts in strategy, entrepreneurship, and technology. The programme uniquely integrates marketing fundamentals with cutting-edge technology and data-driven decision-making. Suhani Gupta, a MSc Strategic Marketing student, shares her reflections on the enriching journey of studying this dynamic programme.

The MSc Strategic Marketing programme has given me a global perspective and showed that possibilities are endless, so keep on expanding your horizons.

London, a city rich in history and innovation, where cobblestone streets echo with countless tales. Just as Arthur Conan Doyle brought Sherlock Holmes' adventures to life on these very streets, my own journey began when I joined Imperial College Business School.

Choosing Imperial College Business School

With an engineering background and a stint at a top management consulting firm, I felt there were still missing pieces in my career puzzle. It became clear that marketing was the key to completing that picture.

Applying to the MSc Strategic Marketing at Imperial was a clear choice. It has turned out to be the ideal blend of everything I had envisioned. While the prestigious ranking and the Imperial's esteemed reputation are significant draws, what truly sets this programme apart is its comprehensive approach. It’s not merely marketing; it’s a fusion of strategy, entrepreneurship, and innovation. As I look back on my journey so far, here are my reflections. 

Embracing the unknown

Embrace the unknown there and take risks. Initially daunting, I had to step out of my comfort zone to improve in areas where I felt less confident. The programme has helped me enhance my presentation and time management skills and take on leadership roles, fostering personal growth and newfound confidence in my abilities.

I always thought marketing was just about creativity, but as I near the end of my programme, I realised it’s much more layered. MSc Strategic Marketing has taught us to think strategically and adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, preparing us to be future leaders. It has made me even more curious and observant. Staying abreast of industry trends and continuously learning new skills is crucial to staying ahead in our careers.

 

Learning at Imperial

There will be opportunities for you to choose your electives, to fill gaps in your knowledge. I thoroughly enjoyed electives like Effective Crisis Management and Market Decision Making which were different from what I had studied and gave me an insight into what goes behind building a successful business. Apart from this, it is imperative to make the right choice for the summer term. I opted for a consulting project from the other options available because I wanted to apply my learnings to a practical setup and working with a client like Pladis, one of the largest biscuit manufacturers in the world has been one of the most rewarding experiences. 

Learning at Imperial goes well beyond the classroom. Since the beginning, I have been actively involved in various clubs, holding positions such as Chief Marketing Officer for the India Business Careers Club and Head of Retail for the FMCG, Luxury, and Retail Careers Club. I also dedicated time to volunteering for Imperial-supported events and social causes. Additionally, I enjoyed the opportunity to choreograph for the annual cultural event of the Indian Society. This involvement has not only enriched my educational journey but also equipped me with leadership skills and provided invaluable exposure to diverse aspects of student life, making my experience fulfilling.

Team work

We’ve all heard the saying "Teamwork makes the Dream work," a significant portion of the coursework here revolves around group projects but experiencing it first-hand was more challenging than I expected. Collaborating with students from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a unique perspective, has been both intellectually stimulating and humbling. It required mastering the art of unlearning and relearning, more than just dividing tasks—it’s been about leveraging each person’s unique strengths to achieve a common goal. And, in this journey, you come to realise that your team members often become lifelong friends.

Value of Networking

You quickly learn that "one's network is their net worth." The programme provides countless avenues like Career fairs, and guest sessions, allowing you to forge strong relationships with leaders you look up to. A standout experience for me was the CMP lectures delivered by the industry experts that helped build a deeper understanding of several topics and breakfast with board events during the Woman@Imperial Week, where sessions offered the chance to engage in profound conversations with trailblazing women. 

The MSc Strategic Marketing programme has given me a global perspective and showed that possibilities are endless, so keep on expanding your horizons. Don’t come here only for just world-class rankings, groundbreaking research or industry-rooted courses, Imperial is about a transformational journey that prepares you for life and this journey for me has been the culmination of a childhood dream and I would do it all over again.

The part-time MBA class at a glance 

This year 85 students have joined the Weekend MBA; the cohort (33% being female) has an average of eight years' work experience and counting. The part-time format of the programme means they will continue to work in their current roles and apply what they learn in the classroom from the outset.  

The majority of the cohort hail from Europe and the UK (33% and 29% respectively) and one third of this year’s class are from further afield, committing to the Weekend MBA from Asia/Pacific (22%), Africa & the Middle East (9%), and the Americas (7%).  

The diversity continues to trickle down into the industries that our students have built they careers in. While the three most common industries are IT/tech/telecoms (24%), banking/finance (17%) and consulting (14%), the remaining 45% have experience in a vast range of areas like engineering, pharma/biotech/healthcare and energy. This diverse range of experience is bound to bring unique takes in every class and discussion! 

What lies in the years ahead?  

After establishing a foundational knowledge through their pre-study modules, the students kicked off the start of their programme with an induction week on campus. This consisted of a variety of introductory lectures, meeting faculty and socialising with fellow students.  

The programme then begins with core modules that focus on key management theory. Each module provides an in-depth foundation of business theory and practice, with opportunities to test understanding through case studies and simulations throughout.  

Once the foundations have been laid, the students will choose six electives. This freedom to tailor their programme means they can specialise in the following areas:  

• Analytics and Operations  

• Entrepreneurship and Innovation  

• Finance   

• Leadership and Organisation  

• Marketing   

• Strategy   

Developing an international outlook is crucial for students who want to become future leaders. Therefore, exploring global markets is a core element of the programme. The Global Experience Week is an opportunity for Weekend MBA students to discover a new business market, learn from innovative businesses and explore a different culture. Past Global Experience Weeks have included the Nordics, Brazil, and Kenya, where students explored how businesses can be transformed to tackle climate action. 

An individual final project at the end of the second year marks the end of the programme. Students can put what they’ve learned into practice and create real strategic value for their employers.   

By the end of the programme, the cohort will have transformed personally and professionally, armed with an extensive toolkit that will allow them to enact impactful change throughout their careers. 

In 2023, I decided to study MSc Business Analytics as a part-time online student at Imperial College Business School. I have a passion for numbers and have been honing my analytical skills as a consultant in logistics for several years. When I first pursued my studies, data science did not exist,. I found this programme at Imperial and saw it as a great opportunity to reconnect with student life, learn new skills, and prepare myself for future professional challenges. 

I also want to improve my digital skills as I was born in an analog world; I aim to enhance my understanding of the technologies around us and connect better with younger generations. As a consultant, I encounter many young professionals, and it is important to understand their motivations to drive performance in a consulting environment. 

My on-campus experience  

At the start of my journey at Imperial, our cohort was the first to come to London for Induction Week instead of just for exams at the end of the term. When I arrived in London, I was excited to meet my cohort but also a bit nervous due to the age gap, but it was an amazing experience. The week in London was wonderful for bonding with classmates and learning from each of them. They are a great group of people with diverse backgrounds, eager to learn, share, and enjoy time together. It was mentioned that we would learn from each other as much as from the programme content, and I couldn't agree more. 

Imperial prepared a wonderful week for us, covering every detail with great care; it was very useful to be introduced to the various tools we would be using during the term. As a newcomer to various programming tools and environments, having this introduction surrounded by professors and Teaching Assistants (TAs) helped break the ice and ensured a smooth transition when we returned home. The events were designed to allow us to explore the campus, learn about the services provided, and get to know our fellow students better. I found it particularly valuable that Imperial showcased former students who led some of the sessions, providing insights and allowing us to envision our futures through their experiences.  

We left Induction Week eager to continue, full of energy, and with new friends. I also took the opportunity to meet some professors and start discussing my Master's project. The professors are approachable and supportive. 

My online learning environment  

Back home, The Hub - our online learning environment - is great. It contains all the information we need, including materials, reading articles and books, and online classes. It is a comfortable and safe space. The activities are organised to support the learning journey, fostering the exchange of information and learning from others. One of my favourite features is the ability to see other students' answers to questions, providing different perspectives and feedback from tutors, which enhances the learning experience. This incremental knowledge-building prepares us for more challenging activities. 

The course balances teamwork and individual work, which I believe Imperial masters. In a technical programme, it is important to craft course material that develops one's abilities while also incorporating teamwork. Teamwork is both challenging and rewarding; we work with bright minds with diverse backgrounds, enriching the experience. Learning each group's dynamics and ways of interaction is relevant and supportive to daily working life. For me, it has been particularly interesting to work with a younger generation and bridge this gap. The Business School helps by placing us in teams within similar time zones, and people are flexible and willing to participate. So far, I am very happy with the collaborative learning - we have accomplished many tasks together, developing trust and companionship. Group members become a safe port to share information, ask for support, and help each other. 

My flexible study schedule  

While studying alone, I prefer to stay at my workplace, which is quiet after most people leave, this allows me to concentrate. We also have a WhatsApp group for the entire cohort and use Microsoft Teams to stay connected and reach the TA team. This allows us to discuss and continue learning together. My study routine involves extending my hours at the workplace to balance work and study.  

The programme is challenging and interesting, and as I might be a bit rusty, I need to study for a significant amount of time. On weekends, I combine studying with rest and go to the gym, which is essential for maintaining my energy.