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. 

Teresa Gomes, Full-Time MBA student shines a light on her experience attending the MBA Tournament (MBAT) at HEC Paris. The MBAT offers – an exciting multi-sport event that brings together MBA candidates from top business schools across Europe and beyond.

Hosted annually at the HEC Paris Business School campus, MBAT is a celebration of sportsmanship, diversity, and friendly competition. This year, Imperial’s MBA cohort participated in the tournament for the first time.

“The whole experience was about much more than just winning medals. It was a truly immersive experience that started even before the tournament began. As the competitions unfolded, our Imperial candidates poured their hearts into every event, showcasing their skills, determination, and teamwork.”

With over 100 different events spanning physical sports, e-sports, cultural showcases, and intellectual challenges, MBAT caters to a wide array of interests and talents. From traditional sports such as football, rugby, and cricket to gaming competitions such as Mario Kart and FIFA, there was something for everyone to encourage maximum participation from students of diverse backgrounds. Not just that, art lovers could showcase their skills in dance competitions and fashion shows, while musicians could battle it out in the Battle of the Bands.

Our cohort embraced this diverse range of events with enthusiasm, competing against some of the finest athletes and artists from prestigious institutions such as London Business School, HEC Paris, Cambridge Judge Business School and Oxford Said Business School.

Our journey kicked off with a delightful Eurostar train ride to the enchanting city of Paris, where we had the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe. Upon arrival at the HEC Paris campus, we were immediately captivated by the lush, green surroundings and the breath-taking lakeside chateau. We registered for the event, collected our wristbands, and downloaded the MBAT app, which provided a comprehensive schedule, transportation details, and even a "connect" feature that facilitated networking with students from other schools based on shared career interests and preferred markets.

“The best part about MBAT was that it presented a celebration of diversity and inclusivity.”

Throughout those 3 eventful days, the air was filled with competitive spirit, with the top three schools receiving coveted awards based on their cumulative performance across all events. But the whole experience was about much more than just winning medals. It was a truly immersive experience that started even before the tournament began. As the competitions unfolded, our Imperial candidates poured their hearts into every event, showcasing their skills, determination, and teamwork.

While some battled on the fields and courts, others served as esteemed jury members, judging events like the dance competition and fashion show. The best part about MBAT was that it presented a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. Our students proudly participated in the PRIDE parade, demonstrating their support for the LGBTQ+ community and promoting a spirit of acceptance and unity.

Earlier this month, my Global Online MBA cohort gathered in London from all over the world to complete the Capstone module, a pivotal part of our MBA journey designed to integrate everything we have learnt over the past two years. Over an intense seven-day period, our team logged almost 100 hours of brainstorming, planning, interviewing, and refining our ideas.  

Pre-Capstone week  

In the lead-up to the Capstone, our first task was to form groups of up to six people, consider several problem statements faced by our companies, and conceive a corresponding innovative solution that was both feasible and socially impactful. Forming the group was straightforward for me, as I had the opportunity to reunite with my first-year syndicate group members: Padma, Brandon, Sebastian, James, and Yuko. We had an excellent group dynamic and agreed to put our minds together for the Capstone week (and of course go out and hit the town!).   

Day 1  

Arriving on Sunday at Scale Space, located in Imperial’s White City campus, after a 30+ hour journey (not to mention the time difference and jet lag!) from Australia was a challenging start to the week. However, seeing everyone from our cohort once again after a year-long hiatus was truly a highlight, and I had the opportunity to catch up with my peers from around the world over lunch and an opening ceremony of sorts.  

Day 1 was also the day we settled on a project. Our group chose to enhance WHILL’s “mobility for all” mission. WHILL is known for its innovative mobility devices (particularly electric wheelchairs) designed to improve the lives of people with mobility challenges. Our proposed solution was to build on their existing technology to create a solution that would be even more inclusive and accessible.  

Day 3  

One of the most demanding aspects of the week was the sheer volume of work and the need for constant iteration. Receiving feedback from multiple coaches was a challenge, as we had to consider various aspects of our solution and balance the technical feasibility, financial costs, and meaningful social impact. In fact, to quote one of our professors, the job of the coaches was “to confuse you!” However, what stood out most was the camaraderie within our group. Our familiarity (having worked together for most of 2022-23) really helped us get through the continuous pivots we had to make. More importantly, we also had a “brainfood” sharing session, where we shared snacks from around the world: Australian biscuits, Swiss chocolates, Singaporean crispy skins, Japanese Kit Kats, and British flapjacks. These snacks encouraged us to take much-needed breaks and helped us bond even more (until the snacks mysteriously disappeared one night!).   

Day 5  

After several days of intense preparation for our pitch, we were rewarded with a cohort social at a nearby pub. We were treated to plenty of food and drinks and had the opportunity to unwind and connect with peers outside of our Capstone groups. Through this, we had an opportunity to listen to what other groups had been working on, and in some instances, were able to exchange ideas and offer insights. The diverse backgrounds of the cohort meant that we could leverage the expertise of medical professionals, frequent flyers, and other professionals in testing the viability of our solution, and vice versa.    

Day 7  

The week culminated in pitching our solution to an esteemed (and intriguing!) panel of judges comprising a former princess, a former United Nations representative, and a senior employee from a major video game company. It was a nerve-wracking yet exhilarating experience as our team conducted multiple dress rehearsals and prepared for a gruelling question and answer segment. Given we were the first group to present, expectations were sky-high – but we succeeded in the end. We received insightful feedback from the panel, which was invaluable for refining our approach as we put together our final slide deck for submission.   

The Global Online MBA Capstone was undoubtedly one of the most intense weeks of my life, but also one of the most rewarding. I learnt what it means to be truly resilient in an academic sense and appreciated the value of diverse perspectives as our cohort collaborated across all our different projects. The real-world challenges we all tried to solve did test our limits, and there were certainly more than a handful of instances where we all needed to take a breather. However, this experience just demonstrates the passion and high calibre of Imperial students, with whom I have had the privilege to work. A special thank you to the Imperial College Business School staff who made this week possible – it was truly a fantastic opportunity to make use of the facilities across the South Kensington and White City campuses. 

About Me 

I am an aspiring social entrepreneur and sustainability advocate, currently pursuing MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management at Imperial College Business School. My prior experiences, including leading projects like Project Zaraat and founding Career Wings, have endowed me with a versatile skill set in operations, content creation, and business innovation. These projects have significantly contributed to my professional development and personal growth, strengthening my commitment to effecting positive change in society and the environment. 

Why I chose to study MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management  

They say love at first sight isn't a myth, and I can attest to that. It happened to me twice (don't ask about the first time), with the second occurring when I discovered the course offerings at Imperial College Business School. Words like "Innovation," "Entrepreneurship," and "Management" seemed to leap off the screen, resonating with my passions and identity. These concepts have always sparked my excitement and naturally drew me to the diverse skills encompassed by these topics. 

Choosing Imperial College Business School was an easy decision. The institution's reputation for providing abundant opportunities and exposure, combined with the chance to immerse myself in various entrepreneurship clubs and societies, was irresistible. The opportunity to study, learn, and grow alongside students and professors from around the world was incredibly appealing. Having been deeply involved in social entrepreneurship for the past three years, I aimed to continue this journey at Imperial, seeking to collaborate on business ideas that benefit society, create a positive impact, and address significant challenges. 

Clubs, societies and leadership 

Upon arriving at Imperial, I began seeking opportunities and experiences to engage with. I joined clubs and societies such as the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Club, Consulting Club, and Climate Entrepreneurs Club. I was elected Career Leader for my cohort, marking the beginning of my active contribution to the Imperial community in this role. As a Careers Leader on the Staff Student Committee (SSC), I was tasked with guiding over 90 peers through the maze of career opportunities and events, advocating for their career-related interests. This role proved both challenging and rewarding, allowing me to enhance the student experience and contribute to their professional growth. 

Another significant milestone was being selected as the Vice President of Sustainability for the Dean's Student Advisory Council (DSAC). In this role, I was entrusted with spearheading sustainability initiatives, driving environmental awareness, and integrating sustainable practices into the School's ethos. I aim to leave a legacy of environmental stewardship and responsible business practices. I also established a Sustainability Committee, and we recently received the Community Fund to organise a new event at the Business School, focused on creating a Green Guide for incoming students at the university. 

Innovative victories and sustainable solutions 

A highlight of my time at Imperial was our team's victory in the VeChain x EasyA x University of Cambridge Hackathon. Competing against 21 teams from across the UK, our project, LogiQ, a decentralised application designed to revolutionise freight sharing in road logistics, emerged victorious. This victory was not just a celebration of our innovative solution but also a testament to the power of collaboration, diverse skill sets, and a shared vision. 

Additionally, I have been actively involved in the Pre Climate Accelerator at the Climate Entrepreneurs Club, where my team is developing VeguVault, a vending machine that dispenses fresh greens grown via soilless vertical farming. This system ensures produce is kept in nutrient-rich water and harvested only when purchased, guaranteeing maximum freshness. The produce is stored in a climate-controlled environment, optimising preservation and nutritional value. This innovative approach aims to enhance urban access to fresh, sustainable produce while minimising food waste. 

Welcome to The Hub

The Hub is an online classroom that supports the learning journey of students enrolled in online programmes, such as my programme, the Global Online MBA. It is a virtual consolidated lecture room that includes different programme modules, a newsfeed, files and video recordings, a module team, and more.

Key features of The Hub 

Below are the navigation tabs that I believe enhance the platform experience.  

• Modules:  Access interactive course materials, such as videos, quizzes, and simulations, that enhance retention and understanding. 

• Newsfeed: We can stay updated on our programme and upcoming events for a more robust learning experience. 

• Documents: Organises key study documents and student resources in one section for better focus.  

• Ed Discussion: This tool facilitates collaborative learning by enabling class discussions and direct communication with the programme team. 

• Team:  We can easily find the contact information of the Programme Team within the app, which helps them get assistance when needed. 

• Directory: The platform offers a convenient way to locate other students in your programme and view their summarised profiles. It allows you to quickly find people you found interesting during a class discussion with ease. With features like LinkedIn links, mobile numbers, and email addresses, it serves as an excellent networking tool for students to connect with one another. 

• Calendar: This tab is crucial as it displays upcoming deadlines for coursework, quizzes, and exams, helping you avoid missing any submissions. 

• Help: Ensure that the programme or platform supports users by providing clickable buttons to request programme, module, or technical support. 

• WISEflow: This is the digital exam delivery system that allows you to take exams remotely on your own device. 

• Exams: Get prepared for your exam by accessing key information such as exam timetables. 

• Student support: A comprehensive list of academic and pastoral care resources is easily accessible to us on The Hub. 

• My Grades/Feedback: The platform offers a convenient way to view your grades and feedback for all your coursework and exams throughout your studies.  

 
After selecting a module, additional tabs will become available providing module-specific information. 

• Calendar: The schedule is filled with class timings along with crucial dates for graded and non-graded coursework.  

• Files: All live class materials are available here for students to reference. 

• Assessment: For ease of reference, module weightings and a list of courses that contribute to the score are available. 

• Readings: Links to all the required readings for each week are provided. 

• Live classes: Students can easily access live class schedules with a single click instead of navigating through the calendar. 

• Recordings: The video recordings of all the live classes are available here for students to refer to. 

What are the benefits of The Hub? 

The Hub offers us a versatile platform, empowering us to study at our own pace while staying mindful of deadlines. This platform is also integrated with Outlook calendar, so we never miss important events or due dates. Additionally, the synchronisation of Outlook email with The Hub guarantees that information reaches us promptly via our school email and is also accessible on the Newsfeed, catering to the needs of busy professionals. 

The Hub also provides in-app support. This support extends to receiving tutor feedback and comments on submitted work, as well as the opportunity to review other students' submissions, excluding confidential material.  

The platform's Progress Analytics bar offers a visual representation of personal progress alongside the class average, enabling us to monitor our performance relative to our peers. This feature serves as a motivator, encouraging us to strive for continual improvement. 

The Hub's interactive features foster engagement and collaboration among our cohort. Through functionalities such as voting on submissions and leaving comments, we can initiate discussions and explore topics, enriching their learning experience with diverse perspectives and insights. 

How to participate in online group discussions effectively  

I have found that maintaining regular communication and coordination is key to group success. Scheduling weekly meetings provides an opportunity to align goals, track progress, and address any concerns or challenges that arise. This proactive approach helps ensure that everyone remains focused and engaged in the group's objectives. 

It's important to voice your thoughts and opinions confidently while also being mindful of others' perspectives. Respect for differing viewpoints fosters a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued. 

When working remotely with larger groups, dividing tasks among smaller teams can enhance efficiency. Each team can focus on specific aspects of the project or activity before reconvening to share insights and findings with the larger group. This approach encourages individual accountability while promoting collective brainstorming and problem-solving. 

Eva Look, a Full-Time MBA student, offers insights into her learning journey thus far. She delves into her module selections, explaining the rationale behind each choice and highlighting the significant lessons and takeaways from each module. Through her reflections, she provides a glimpse into the classroom experience integral to this programme.

About me

 Prior to joining the programme, I worked in advertising agencies for six years in Hong Kong, providing marketing consultations and executing advertising campaigns.

My goal after graduation is to work in social impact and sustainability consulting roles, where I can utilise my expertise in a more impactful sector. I chose to study at Imperial College Business School because of its reputation and its comprehensive and up-to-date programmes. For example, I am able to learn more about Artificial Intelligence (AI) in different modules, which may not be available at other schools yet. Let me share insights into the modules I've chosen for this term at Imperial!

My first impressions of Imperial College Business School

In terms of the MBA students and alumni I have encountered so far, my first impression was overwhelmingly positive.

The MBA cohort is not only culturally diverse but also incredibly friendly. We bonded closely during the two weeks before the start of the school year, engaging in team-building activities and treating each other as family members.

The support and love from the alumni community are also remarkable. Many alumni return to the business school to share their MBA journey and work experiences, and my mentor went the extra mile to welcome me to the college and give me a tour of the campus, which was heart-warming.

The modules I’ve chosen and why

This term, I've enrolled in six modules, including two compulsory ones: Marketing Management and Business Problem Solving. Additionally, I've opted for Design Thinking, Sustainability and Competitive Advantage, Data Analytics and Visualisation for Business, and Managing Negotiations as my elective modules. Let's dive deeper into a couple of these courses to provide a glimpse of my learning experience:

Data Analytics and Visualisation for Business

In this module, Professor Xiaocheng Li provided us an overview of various methods for handling, analysing, and visualising data. We acquired basic knowledge of tools such as Python, SQL, and Tableau. We also explored the application of AI tools in data analysis and gained an understanding of their strengths and limitations. An interesting fact we discovered was that if we ask GPT4 to perform calculations without using Python code, it fails to provide accurate answers. Throughout the programme, we had the opportunity to work on assignments using real-life data, where we tried building predictive models to solve business problems.

Design Thinking: Solving Complex Problems Through a Disruptive Mindset

In this module, we embarked on a 2.5-month journey exploring the design thinking methodology and process with Professor Ileana Stigliani. We began by defining the problem and conducting user research, followed by collecting and clustering inputs to gain key insights. Using these insights, we engaged in an idea generation process to generate numerous ideas, and then selected a few for testing and feedback. At the end of the module, we were required to present our process and final product to a panel consisting of professionals from creative agency. Throughout the journey, we were provided with tools and frameworks to guide us at every step. Our team focused on the challenge of helping students land jobs more effectively, which involved interviewing students, career consultants, and recruiters to understand their pain points. We then developed prototypes to test and refine our ideas, and finally proposing a AI-powered platform that consolidate various tools and platform together as a final product. It was a comprehensive and enriching experience that allowed us to apply design thinking principles in a practical context.

Business Problem Solving

In this module, Dr. Ian Mackenzie provided us with valuable insights into business problem solving and consulting. With his extensive practical experience, he presented us with various real-life business cases, guiding us on how to break down and address complex problems. These cases included topics such as organisational restructuring, innovation transformation, and even effective interview techniques. The sessions were highly interactive with active participation from our cohort, allowing us to learn from one another and gain different perspectives on how to approach the cases. To conclude the module, we will be working in groups to write a proposal based on a case study, applying the knowledge and skills we acquired throughout the sessions.

My Favourite Module so far: Sustainability and Competitive Advantage

This module, the first in the MBA programme to specifically address sustainability, has been highly anticipated by me. Led by Professor Christiane Bode, the module provided valuable insights and exceeded my expectations.

Spanning four consecutive days, the module was a comprehensive block elective that ensured our full engagement. Professor Bode delivered valuable content throughout, emphasising “the idea that addressing society's E-S-G challenges requires business leaders to make trade-offs between economic, social, and environmental goals while seeking innovative solutions.” This module aimed to help students think through different ways the space is evolving and enable them as business leaders to make a positive impact while acknowledging the complexities and pressures faced by businesses today.

The content of the module was extensive, incorporating lectures and case studies that made the concepts practical and applicable. We were fortunate to have a guest lecture by Daniel Klier, the former global head of sustainable finance at HSBC and the current CEO of ESG Book, who shared insights into the progress of ESG in the finance industry, adding depth to our understanding.

Another highlight of the module was a simulation exercise focused on stakeholder management. We immersed ourselves in the role of project managers at a mining site in Venezuela, negotiating with various stakeholders to develop a proposal that would gain majority agreement. This interactive exercise provided a hands-on experience of the challenges inherent in stakeholder management.

The module concluded with group presentations by our classmates, where they discussed sustainability strategies adopted by different companies. It was eye-opening to learn about the diverse approaches and responses to the "new sustainability trend". The module ended with an inspiring talk by Professor Bode, in which we explored how we can make a positive impact, even if our job roles are not explicitly focused on social impact.

Overall, this module has been truly inspiring, equipping us with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and possibilities of achieving the triple bottom line. I am looking forward to completing the module with the final individual assignment, where I will have the opportunity to explore innovative models for existing companies to tap into the Base of the Pyramid.

My favourite memory of the programme so far

While working with my classmates on various school projects and perfecting our group presentations has been a rewarding experience, my best memory as an MBA student thus far is the getaway we had with my cohort in October. We embarked on a hike to Sevens Sisters Cliff, and it was an incredible bonding experience. The hike presented its challenges, but we supported and encouraged each other throughout the journey, allowing us to enjoy the breathtaking views of the cliffs along the way. 

My advice to candidates considering applying to Imperial College Business School

Be authentic both to yourself and to the admissions panel. Take the time to deeply understand yourself and your long-term career aspirations. This self-reflection will help you craft a compelling narrative that genuinely conveys your story to the admissions panel.

Additionally, reach out to current students at the Business School to gain insights into what Imperial College Business School offers and determine if it aligns with your goals. Student ambassadors are available to answer your questions and provide guidance to fine-tune your application to the programme. 

Cyanoskin, a pioneering startup, emerged victorious in Imperial’s Venture Catalyst Challenge (VCC) 2024 with their groundbreaking 'living paint' technology designed to transform buildings into CO2-absorbing structures. Co-founded by Antoinette Nothomb (MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Management alumnus) and Emma Money (Royal College of Art alumnus), Cyanoskin secured the top prize of £30,000, showcasing their innovative approach to addressing climate change. This win underscores the ongoing commitment of the Imperial Venture Catalyst Challenge to nurture and support early-stage ventures, with a track record of success stories including Notpla and Breathe Battery.

Antoinette Nothomb, co-founder of Cyanoskin, said: "Emma and I are absolutely thrilled about winning the VCC final. However, what struck us most profoundly was that winning wasn't merely about the financial reward.

Throughout the programme, we experienced a large sense of support from the VCC and its network. At any point, and any time when help was needed, it was quickly provided by the VCC through their incredible network. While the financial prize is certainly appreciated, what truly matters is the trust placed upon our company by VCC and Imperial College London. We feel well-equipped to continue this journey. Now if we do talk about the financial aspect, yes, we are indeed ecstatic.

This funding enables us to further our research at the Advanced Hackspace and prepare for the launch of our very first pilot in September 2024."

The challenge, spanning a three-month programme, saw participation from 25 teams, each vying for a portion of the £100,000 prize fund, the largest of its kind in any UK university entrepreneurship competition. Divided into five distinct tracks—AI & Robotics, Creative & Consumer, Digital & Finance, Energy & Environment, and Health & Wellbeing—the competition provided a platform for startups to showcase their ingenuity and potential impact.

Cyanoskin's solution resonated strongly with sustainability managers globally who are grappling with limited budgets and the urgent need to achieve net zero targets. Their 'living paint' offers an efficient and cost-effective means of reducing carbon emissions and pollution in urban areas. By leveraging photosynthetic paint that mimics the CO2-absorbing properties of algae, building owners can actively contribute to environmental sustainability while receiving real-time updates on their carbon absorption progress through a dedicated app.

Alongside Cyanoskin, other standout winners were recognised for their exceptional contributions to innovation. BrainMod, for their work on wearable neurotechnology and AI therapeutics, secured the top Moonshot Prize of £10,000, underscoring their commitment to pushing the boundaries of technological advancement. Polaron, recipient of the second Moonshot Prize, was lauded for their efforts in leveraging generative AI to accelerate the design of advanced materials.

Pyri's innovative wildfire detection system, which utilises biocompatible materials for extensive and cost-effective coverage, earned them the top Social Impact Prize of £10,000. Similarly, Tulibot's development of real-time subtitling smart glasses for the deaf community garnered them the second Social Impact Prize, highlighting their dedication to fostering inclusive communication.

In addition to these remarkable achievements, individual track winners across various domains were celebrated for their innovative endeavors. From AminoAnalytica's virtual screening software accelerating drug discovery to Neubond's wearable devices aiding stroke mobility rehabilitation, each winner exemplifies the spirit of innovation and impact driving the Venture Catalyst Challenge forward.

Global experiences are an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in business settings, facilitating both personal and professional growth. They’re an invaluable part of the learning experience, equipping students with the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to succeed as a business leader in this interconnected world. 

Elisabeth Zlatkin, a MSc Management (now re-purposed as MSc in Management (MiM)) student from Germany shares her experience undertaking both a Global Immersion and Global Exchange during her time at Imperial College Business School. 

“When applying to Imperial College Business School, I carefully considered all of the international opportunities available to me. The international cohort and global network at Imperial is invaluable, and the immersion and exchange modules offer practical, hands-on experiences and the chance to study in different international contexts, enhancing my learning and broadening my global perspective.” 

Global Immersion: Singapore

Our Global Immersion modules are week-long international experience trips that includes visits to companies representing a diverse range of sectors. They provide an opportunity for students to travel across the world and gain a unique perspective on global business practices.  

This year, our MSc Management cohort explored Singapore as a Smart City, looking at how local innovations make it unique. Below, Elisabeth tells us a little more about the week. 

We had the opportunity to speak to many exciting professionals; one of them was Chris de Lavigne, a partner at Deloitte, who revealed how Singapore evolved from a fishing village to a global energy hub, emphasising sustainability through district cooling systems, solar panels, and underground infrastructure. We also met many start-up founders and innovation hubs and understood the infrastructure for emerging start-ups.  

The experience broadened my understanding of global industry trends and the importance of public-private partnerships in innovative city initiatives. I built a strong network with industry leaders and peers, which has been instrumental in my professional growth.  

Exposure to Singapore’s dynamic business environment honed my leadership and strategic thinking skills, preparing me for any future challenges I may face in my career. 

Global Exchange: Paris and Switzerland

Over a one-month period, Elisabeth undertook a Global Exchange at both HEC France and EHL Switzerland, focusing on Luxury Hospitality Management.  

New challenges

There were over 200 international students from around the world participating in various programmes at HEC. Studying abroad meant that I was navigating a new environment outside of my comfort zone. 

Being immersed in a new and international environment, meeting new professionals, and learning new things resulted in a steep learning curve and prepared me well for the future steps in my career. 

The small class size on my exchange helped foster a close-knit community. I learned so much from my peers, gaining international insights into luxury hospitality management from like-minded individuals. 

My personal highlights

The Global Exchange has made me more open-minded. I had the opportunity to meet so many incredible people. It reinforced that networking is one of the most essential skills in the world of business. The connections I made and the insights I gained during this experience are invaluable. 

A highlight was all the interesting conversations I had during my time in Paris and Lousanne. Meeting professionals from different fields sheds a different light on the same topic, making it much more interesting to discuss.  

Learning about both the operational and financial aspects of the hotel industry was incredibly insightful. It gave me a deeper understanding of the different international practices and the complexities involved in managing luxury properties. 

Embracing opportunities outside of my learning

This was my first time living in a dorm, and the EHL dorms exceeded all of my expectations with their amazing amenities and facilities. The first days are the ones where you create those long-lasting friendships through all the incredible experiences you get to have together. I was the only German on my course, and our class was wonderfully diverse, with no nationality repeated. 

Social events were planned by both course management and the students themselves that enriched the overall experience. Every night, we had an activity ranging from BBQs at the lake to wine tasting sessions. 

Choosing Imperial College Business School

Before applying to Imperial College Business School, I spent a lot of time browsing through the modules, electives, societies, career services and international exposures offered to students.  

This was when I decided that should I get accepted, I would apply to the Global Immersion trip and the Global Exchange module, as I knew these would be once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Having been accepted to both, I cherish these experiences the most.

While London is my favourite city, I wanted to gain international exposure during my master’s programme. These experiences are invaluable—they not only lead to new friendships but also broaden your horizons and deepen your understanding of specific topics. 

Growth happens outside your comfort zone. These global learning opportunities have been an unforgettable part of my learning, fuelling significant personal and professional growth.