Imperial College Business School is a proud partner of the Forté Foundation, a non-profit organisation that champions women’s progression within business through access to education. In addition to the financial support provided, Forté Fellows have access to several unique resources from Forté Foundation including participation in their annual conference, exclusive networking groups, free lifetime premium membership and more. 

Annelise Wipfli, Full-Time MBA student attended Forté’s 20th anniversary celebration event, held at Imperial College  Business School.  As a Forté fellowship holder herself, she shares her motivations for applying for this scheme, what this fellowship means to her and the key highlights of this event. She also shares her advice for women who are considering applying for the Forté Fellowship.  

How did it feel when you found out you’d secured these scholarships? 

I was already absolutely thrilled to embark on my MBA journey at Imperial College Business School; the Business School is well-reputed for fostering innovation and excellence, and the prospect of being a part of this esteemed institution was a dream come true. I was elated to receive the prestigious Imperial Dean's Impact Scholarship as it was a validation of my hard work, dedication, and potential. I felt deeply honoured and humbled to have been chosen for this incredible opportunity. 

Additionally, I was grateful for the recognition of my achievements with Imperial's Excellence Scholarship, it highlighted the Business School's unwavering trust in me and my potential. The scholarship motivates me to continue striving for excellence knowing that my efforts, struggles, and achievements have been recognised and rewarded.  

What motivated you to apply for the Dean's Impact Scholarship?

As an international student with a diverse background, I have had the privilege of studying, working and living in two different countries and travelling across ten more.  

I was motivated to apply for the scholarship because I saw it as a unique opportunity to further my education in an institution that values innovation, diversity and the potential to make a meaningful difference.  

I felt that my global perspective coupled with my vision to benefit business and improve society through the power of innovative thinking aligned with that of Imperial. Hence, I felt I would be a good fit for this scholarship. It was not just about the financial aid but about being part of a community that shared my values and goals. 

What do these scholarships mean to you in terms of your academic and personal goals? 

Since a young age, technology fascinated me, leading me to pursue my undergraduate degree in the field of Information Sciences and Technology at Penn State University in the US. As a teenager, I developed a web-based alternative to Apple’s AppStore along with software tweaks for iOS devices which received over 10,000 downloads and led me to be featured in various news publications such as the Forbes US magazine.  

Presently, I am on my journey to transition into an entrepreneurial role by pursuing a Full-Time MBA. As a self-funded student, this scholarship holds immense value to me. It would assist in backing my MBA, allowing me to leverage my savings from my time at Deloitte Consulting in the US to develop proprietary fintech software. 

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

My biggest advice to aspiring scholarship candidates is to embrace a mindset of growth and exploration. Getting out of your comfort zone is vital, by actively engaging in various activities, participating and networking within your community. It is also essential to start early by researching scholarships that align with your academic and personal interests while keeping deadlines in mind.  

I would advise aspiring students to stay true to themselves and their goals. They should pursue what genuinely inspires them because their passion will fuel their efforts and allow them to effectively share their vision with others. 

If you are interested in learning more about our scholarships and are considering applying, please follow the link below. 

It’s amazing to be able to facilitate this event, exclusively for Business School students, so early on in their time with us. It gives them a chance to get real insights as to what a wide range of employers are looking for, make genuine contacts within organisations for future networking opportunities, and to be able to compare and contrast working cultures at some of the Business School’s employer partners – be they start-ups, SMEs or large corporates. We had a record number of students through the door this year – with 1559 attending from across our four programme suites. - Toby Emmerson, Senior Employer Relations Manager.

Imperial College Business School is pleased to announce the MSc Global Health Management has launched for September 2024 entry. The new MSc Global Health Management replaces the programme previously known as International Health Management.  

We spoke to Aram Karakashian, Executive Director of Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions to learn how the MSc Global Health Management has been redesigned to meet the needs of a complex and rapidly evolving global healthcare ecosystem.   

“The revamped MSc Global Health Management programme has been enhanced to provide a more comprehensive learning experience, offering an extended exploration of global health challenges, leadership dynamics, sustainability considerations, and the intricate factors influencing health beyond conventional healthcare measures.”  

MSc Global Health Management is built to enable students to personalise their learning journey. Students can take a deep dive into one of three concentrations: 

• Management – With modules covering areas such as strategy, marketing, innovation, and organisational behaviour, students will learn to lead and tackle global health challenges. 

• Innovation & Entrepreneurship - With modules in areas such as design thinking, entrepreneurship, and business sustainability, students will learn to drive innovation and lead in evolving the future of health and healthcare. 

• Economics & Data Science - With modules in areas such as digital economics, health analytics, big data, AI, and machine learning, students will learn to impact global health challenges through the use of data and analytics. 

An expanded range of electives that incorporate leadership, policy, entrepreneurship, analytics and sustainability, are available for students to further personalise their learning options.  

“This affords students the flexibility to tailor their educational journey, fostering a truly interdisciplinary approach." 

The Master’s was designed in collaboration with Imperial College London’s School of Public Health, Dyson School of Design Engineering and the Imperial Enterprise Lab, allowing students to benefit from the latest research and expertise from our globally-recognised faculty across different disciplines. 

Students will also gain practical, real-world learning through hands-on projects with our industry partners.  

MSc Global Health Management aims to equip future leaders with a new set of skills to shape the agenda, take on challenging global roles in healthcare, and thrive in the complexities of future health ecosystems. 

Career goals for students on each concentration could include roles like:   

• Management: Management roles within the NHS or in private healthcare settings, government departments, international organisations and NGOs; management consulting; management, strategy or market access roles in pharmaceutical and biotech companies.  

• Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Medical, health, or social entrepreneur; innovation consultants; or business development managers.

• Economics & Data Science: Data or information analyst roles within a health system; healthcare consultant; analytical and technical roles in international organisations, government departments, or NGOs; health policy analysts; health economics roles in technology or pharmaceutical industries; or data scientists in the health sector. 

“We invite those who aspire to make a meaningful difference – individuals driven to lead, manage, and mitigate health concerns on a global scale. It's an opportunity to stand at the forefront of addressing the pressing global health challenges of our time.” 

Scholarship Breakfast: Celebrating Excellence

Imperial College Business School recognises the importance of fostering talent and nurturing future leaders. The Scholarship Breakfast was an occasion to honour and celebrate the exceptional achievements of deserving students.

Each year, a select group of Masters and MBA students are awarded scholarships based on their outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and contributions to their communities. The Scholarship Breakfast is a gathering where these talented individuals are recognised and celebrated by the faculty, staff, and peers.
As new students embark on their academic journey at Imperial College Business School, they carry with them the memories and connections forged during this week. For some programmes, students will have one more week of induction before delving into their studies. These experiences serve as a reminder of the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and inspire them to excel in their pursuit of knowledge, leadership, and success. 

The  week was an adventurous week, giving us an insight into the massive number of events and opportunities that await our participation throughout this time at Imperial College Business School. I look forward to the new connections, the events and the immense learning opportunities here at Imperial. If one week could be so memorable and fun, I can’t fathom the rest of the 51 weeks in this programme!” - Dhishan Rajshekhar, MSc Management.

In this blog students completing their programme, recall their earlier days at the Business School. They reflect on critical moments that have shaped their approaches to learning and share insights from embracing failures as learning opportunities to cultivating genuine professional connections. These personal letters highlight their transformative journeys and offer great advice to incoming students. 

Dear Past Me, 

Finally, you've arrived at your dream college-congratulations! Your transformative journey has just begun, and I couldn't be more excited for you. As you step into the immersive world of endless opportunities at the business school, there are a few things I want you to keep in mind.  

The initial week might seem overwhelming, especially if you are adjusting to a new country, but remember to embrace it all at a steady pace. Breathe, absorb the new environment and relish the sensation of embarking on this incredible journey. 

Step out of your comfort zone and connect with those from diverse cultures. Remember, everyone is in the same boat as you. Be open to new challenges and experiences with a positive outlook. A warm smile can bridge gaps and create lasting connections. Every experience, good or bad, is a chance to learn.  

Keep celebrating small victories and embrace your mistakes as stepping stones to improvement. Your time management skills will be your lifeline at the Business School, especially as an international student. While it might seem demanding sometimes, the rewards will be well worth the effort you invest.  

Above all, believe in yourself, trust the process, and make sure that you enjoy every moment. The days will pass like shooting stars, so seize each opportunity with curiosity. Keep your goals in sight and be ready for the distinctive surprises woven into the program (P.S. Keep guessing the destinations for your upcoming international trips!) 

With unwavering support and excitement,  

The You Who's Already Been There,  

Yogda Kalra (MSc International Management, 2023)

Dear younger self,  

I’m writing to tell you how young and blessed you are as you step into this phase of your life. This is going to be your life’s most eventful and challenging year. I’m sure by now you’ve come to realise that dreams do come true, but they come at a cost so always remember to be kind and grateful even when you’re unhappy. Remember that the people around you are facing the same challenges but in a thousand different ways. Try to be there for your family and your community as much as you can.  

Every day in this academic year will come with a fair set of opportunities and it’s on you to get the best of them. London is a dream city and it’s a city that tries you in the best of ways. Always try to stay connected with your inner calling. Try to network and connect with people in and through the Business School as that will account for shared learning and growth. I know that’s not one of your weak suits but there could be days you will feel like doing nothing. Don’t let such days take your spirit down. Take it one day at a time and you’ll be fine. 

Lastly, the memories you’re going to make this year will be simply incredible so make sure you savour each moment and live life to its fullest. Don’t be afraid of taking risks and asking questions! You got this! 

Your older self, 

Swapan Bahrani (MSc Economics & Strategy for Business, 2023) 

Dear Past Mangala,   

As you take your first steps onto the Kensington Campus of Imperial College Business School, you will experience a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, anticipation, and a touch of nervousness. However, do not worry! These feelings mark the beginning of an incredible journey that will shape you into the entrepreneurial and innovative business leader you aspired to become when you first applied to the university. 

Through all the assignments and online lectures, just remember to share your thoughts, ask questions, and actively engage with professors and fellow students. Your contributions will inspire others to do the same and encourage class discussions and collaborations. 

Remember to brace yourself for challenges. As the old saying goes, when the going gets tough, the tough get going! Every hurdle is a chance to learn and grow. Seek guidance from mentors and lean on your classmates – they are with you on this journey, and their support will be invaluable. 

While your academic performance is vital, remember to also take care of your wellbeing. It is easy to stress and lose sleep over assignments and exams. However, when you listen to music, go for a walk and do the things you love to do, you will keep your mind sharp and your spirits high. 

Networking events might seem intimidating, but they're golden opportunities to connect with like minder peers and professionals. Be yourself and reach out to many other people – you never know what connections might shape your future. 

Stay curious and stay eager. The business world constantly changes, and your desire to learn will help keep you up to date with the latest trends. Embrace the opportunities presented to you and do your best to even surpass your own expectations. 

Remind yourself why you came to Imperial in the first place – to make a positive social impact and to be the best you can be. It won't always be smooth sailing, but with your determination and passion, you will come out of this stronger and wiser. 

Finally, as the days swiftly turn into weeks and weeks into months, don't forget to celebrate each achievement, no matter how small. Enjoy the journey while it lasts and don't stop making memories.  

Yours Sincerely, 

Future Managla Prasetia (Global Online MBA, 2023) 

Stay curious and stay eager. The business world constantly changes, and your desire to learn will help keep you up to date with the latest trends.

Dear Past Me, 

Firstly, hats off to you for choosing Imperial College Business School! It's like you aimed for the stars and landed right on the moon. As you took those first steps onto its iconic campus, little did you know the of the rollercoaster of experiences ahead. 

The thrill of meeting people from different corners of the globe was simply exhilarating. It felt like a whirlwind of cultures, languages, and stories all coming together in one place.Among those faces are individuals who will become more than just classmates. They'll be your friends, your 3 AM study buddies, and the ones you'll share unforgettable memories with. These are the connections that won't fade with time; they'll only grow stronger, forming bonds that you'll cherish for a lifetime. 

Remember the group projects, recall how you believed assembling a team would be like the Avengers coming together? The reality: more like a sitcom cast with diverse personalities, and the ever-present challenge of coordinating everyone's 'ideal meeting time'. Who knew business strategy also meant negotiating between early birds and night owls? 

Yet, amid the spreadsheets, SWOT analyses, and simulation games, you unearthed the essence of Imperial College Business School. It wasn’t just about financial models or marketing strategies. It was about shaping visions, honing leaders, and yes, teaching the fine art of surviving 3-hour lectures on corporate strategy. 

Thanks to Imperial College Business School, you're in for a global adventure that's beyond your wildest dreams. Within a year, you'll find yourself jet-setting to incredible countries! Whether it's enjoying a cup of espresso in Istanbul or wandering through Singapore's bustling markets, you'll be gathering priceless memories and friendships from around the world—experiences that no classroom can ever provide.  

Looking back, I am grateful for that wide-eyed version of myself who stepped onto campus, ready to embrace every opportunity that came my way. It's going to be a year of growth, discovery, and connections that will last a lifetime. 

So, dear past self, continue the journey ahead with an open heart and an open mind. Cherish the friendships, relish the challenges, and savour the victories. Your first week was just the beginning of an incredible adventure, and I can't wait for you to see how far we've come. 

With excitement and a hint of envy (because, oh, the adventures you're about to have!),  

Your Future Jet-setting, Networked, and Grateful Self. 

Navdeep Ghothra,  MSc International Management

It's going to be a year of growth, discovery, and connections that will last a lifetime. 

Dear Me At First Week Of Imperial,  

Congratulations on making it to Imperial College! You did it. Celebrate this moment. As you step into the realm of Imperial, remember to cherish each and every moment, every success and set-back, because this was your dream and you worked hard to get here!   

Don’t be afraid or intimidated. Your classmates are just as excited, nervous, and new as you are. Embrace the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. Find a common ground with fellow students. Engage in conversations that go beyond the textbooks. Ask questions about their backgrounds, their interests, and their daily routines. These connections will forge friendships that will last a lifetime. 

In this whirlwind adventure, resist the urge to rush through things. Time will fly by, and your journey at Imperial will conclude before you know it. Every moment counts. Relish in the student life, for these years are unparalleled when it comes to learning, upskilling, exploring, and personal growth.  

Remember that grades matter, but learning matters more. Prioritise understanding concepts and developing critical thinking. Don’t put all your energy into acing the exam, rather dedicate yourself to understanding and learning the material. Trust that if you invest in the process, the grades will naturally follow suit.  

Amid the hustle, make it a ritual to connect with one new person every week. This could be a classmate, a professor, or someone from a different school within the university. As the semesters unfold and familiarity settles in, it's easy to become complacent. However, remember that growth thrives beyond your comfort zone, and these new relationships will enrich your experience. 

Venture beyond the classroom. Explore the plethora of educational resources that Imperial College offers. Attend library workshops, digital literacy classes, Inkpath modules etc. Join clubs and socieities as per your interest like the Enterprise Lab, Finance Club, Student Investment Club etc. These activities will enhance your academic journey and broaden your horizons. 

Lastly do not forget the sheer luxury of being in London. Make the most of your historic campus and the vibrant city that it is in. Don’t rush to class, leave early and take a leisurely walk through Hyde Park. Don’t shut yourself in your room and study, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the university library and absorb the energy of all the learners around you. London is your oyster, so delve into its culture, theater, and diverse culinary scene.  

Embrace this incredible opportunity with open arms, and remember that growth often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone. Your journey at Imperial College London will be filled with learning, adventure, and personal development. Explore, experience, and relish every moment, for it's a chapter you'll fondly reminisce about in the years to come  

Sincerely, 

Your Future Self At Graduation, 

Aakriti Jhunjhunwala  (Global Online MBA) 

Dear Kirk,

It’s almost time! For three months, you’ve been thinking about this moment. Ever since receiving your acceptance letter, you’ve been wondering, dreaming, and hoping about your next chapter at Imperial.

Who will you meet? Will you enjoy living in London? What will you learn?

These questions, and many others, are racing through your head. I know you’re seeking quick answers, but have faith they’ll be answered in time. As hard as it may be, try not to compare your timeline to others, and trust your path will lead you where you should be.

Each of the first few days, weeks, and months will be filled with new experiences. Open yourself to these opportunities and embrace the unknown. Your classmates, like you, are excitedly nervous about the year ahead. Everyone wants to make friends, and although it can be difficult, everyone will be grateful if you take the first step and say hello.

You won’t always know what’s going on, and you’ll have your fair share of culture shock. Rather than trying to fit in, recognise and appreciate the unique aspects of your personality and culture you bring to the table. These characteristics will enrich your and your classmates’ experiences; you live in London, but the international diversity of your cohort will open a world of possibilities.

You’ve earned your spot to study at Imperial College Business School and by being your authentic self, you’ll make this experience your own. Enjoy it, embrace it, and have fun! Imperial is a wonderful place to study, and London is an exciting place to live. You’re in for a fantastic year of academic, professional, and personal growth. You got this!

From your future self,

Kirk Zieser (MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance)

As you set out on your own journey, we hope the words of our students inspire you to navigate your own journey at Imperial College Business School. Here's to creating your own path to success! 

Mangala Prasetia, Global Online MBA student shares his top tips for networking ahead of welcome week at Imperial College Business School.

Sometimes, the first day of university can seem quite daunting – where do I go for my classes? What subjects do I pick to study? How do I make the most out of my university experience? These were some of the questions that swam around my head as I embarked on my highly anticipated journey to Imperial College London (15,000 kilometers away from a place I called home – Australia). One of the ways in which I alleviated my concerns was through networking, even before arriving at Imperial College Business School. 

Networking is often viewed as the secret ingredient to success. Throughout my life, countless lecturers, mentors, and peers from academic and professional backgrounds have reminded me about the importance of building meaningful connections. In fact, investing in a robust and diverse network can reap rewards – including finding out where classes are held, what subjects and electives to pick, as well as knowing how to make the most of the opportunities available! Without further ado, here are the top five tips to building a thriving university support network.  

I personally find that building a strong network before university starts will provide you with a support network and a sense of comfort when you attend your first day.  

1. Start a conversation on social media:  

LinkedIn, Whatsapp, IB connect, Voxx - there is no shortage of social media channels (both official and unofficial) that allow you to sign up and connect with fellow students, alumni from Imperial College Business School. The Uni Buddy group for your particular study and cohort is a useful starting point. The Imperial College Business School community is always happy to share their experiences which provide a fresh perspective on how to successfully navigate the Imperial life.  

2. Join seminars and events: 

There are plenty of seminars and other meetups or activities which are offered by the Business School during the semester breaks or orientation week. Most of these can be found on IB Connect. Some of these events are advertised through newsletters, so check your emails! Some events are also hosted by industry professionals, so this is the opportunity for you to obtain insights and advice on how to find opportunities within your target industry or job.  

3. Sign up for interest groups and specific communities   

Joining communities that align with your interests and aspirations will allow you to engage with other students who share the same passions, whether it be about startups, sci-fi movies or climate education, Imperial has a club for everyone. I’d encourage incoming students to check out one of the biggest student communities, the Imperial Enterprise Lab. Imperial Enterprise Lab Given Imperial is known for its entrepreneurial spirit, it will be beneficial for you to connect with a few students from this Slack group, even if you haven’t thought about your own start-up (yet!) 

4. Think outside your cohort 

Actively find opportunities to interact with students outside of the Business School – whether it be through seminars or interest groups. Imperial College London is renowned for its STEM subjects, getting an understanding of inter-disciplinary concepts is a competitive advantage in most modern workplaces as businesses actively seek technologically literate employees and harness STEM advancements (such as generative AI). 

5. Find a mentor (or multiple ones!) 

Lastly, and most importantly, find someone (or multiple people) who are willing to be your mentors and provide counsel to you even before university starts so you can optimise your university experience. In addition to attending seminars, events and being active on social media, you can also engage with your professors and other faculty staff (e.g. programme advisors) to see if they can help identify an appropriate mentor who can guides you throughout your journey.   

So all the best with connecting! I personally find that building a strong network before university starts will provide you with a support network and a sense of comfort when you attend your first day.  

We are excited to welcome this new cohort to Imperial College Business School and cannot wait to see what this class achieves! If you want to join our 2024 class, don't forget to register your interest and sign up to our newsletter below.