In this blog, Full-Time MBA student, Teresa Gomes shares her highlights of our recent MBA Career Week. This week offers a range of career-focused activities in a combination of core Personal Leadership Journey and optional sessions. We offered over 30 Career sessions to our Full-Time MBA cohort, 18 of which were open across our MBA Suite and 12 were open to recent MBA Alumni. 

This week supports Full-Time MBA students in transitioning from career planning to strategy implementation, offering career coaching and networking opportunities with company representatives, sector experts and alumni. Students also had the opportunity to connect with other Imperial MBA cohorts across the Global Online and Executive MBA programmes during career sessions in different formats (on-campus and online). 

Services on offer included: 

• Individual Coaching: a personalised 1:1 conversation with an industry expert. Our students participated in coached-led sessions covering topics like interview tips, transitioning experience, industry insights, organisational dynamics, and career advice. 

• Small Group Practice: led by a consultant or industry expert, these sessions focused on skill development and knowledge sharing in a highly interactive setting.  

• Group Sessions: facilitated by employers, alumni, and the careers team, these sessions included presentations, panels, fireside chats, and spotlights.  

• MBA World Cafe Networking: innovative networking event connecting MBA students with alumni for career exploration. Students could choose from over 15 alumni profiles, providing a unique opportunity to interact with students from various MBA programmes.  

Tuesday’s session: Innovation & Entrepreneurship 

It was an absolute pleasure to meet Charles, the co-founder of Blenheim Chalcot, and learn from his fascinating experiences. His entrepreneurial journey, especially navigating the dot-com bubble, emphasised the need for a diversified product portfolio to tackle macroeconomic risks. The success story of Blenheim Chalcot in transitioning from tech consultancy to venture building made it clear how important it is to have adaptability in business decision-making.  

“The event not only broadened my perspective on potential career paths but also fuelled my excitement for the dynamic opportunities that lie ahead.”

How this session helped me understand careers in this field 

Speaking with founders of disruptive start-ups such as Kloo, Koodoo, and Brocaly built with support from Blenheim Chalcot, gave me a first-hand look on the tremendous potential of technology, in particular artificial intelligence (AI). It was like stepping into a dynamic world where innovation meets impact. The event not only broadened my perspective on potential career paths but also fuelled my excitement for the dynamic opportunities that lie ahead. 

Wednesday’s session: Interviewing & Salary Negotiation  

The session “Unleash your job search power”, led by Marcel Deveny, centered around the often-neglected aspect of job hunting – the power of soft skills. This talk enlightened us on leveraging our skills effectively to negotiate salaries and navigating tricky situations such as the gender pay gap with confidence, essentially putting our fears aside. 

We also learned how to tackle the intricacies of behavioural interviews using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique. As we practiced with our peers, we realised that learning how to craft a compelling narrative by emphasising the action part was the key learning outcome of this exercise. What might seem convincing to us might not resonate with recruiters, and this is where feedback from peers comes handy. 

Thursday’s session: Global Careers & Networking 

The MBA World Café which marked the flagship event of the Careers Week, offered a wealth of wisdom through engaging conversations with the different alumni of Imperial who’ve made it to their dream careers.  As someone who’s passionate about finance, I was particularly keen on meeting people who have made it to the most competitive finance industry after their MBA.  

Networking opportunities   

I had the chance to speak to professionals such as Efua Mercer in sustainable finance at PwC, Jack Blyzinskyj in venture capital at Socii Capital, Obi as the Chief Investment Officer at Sibell Family Office, and Clemens Mieth, Associate Director at Mizuho Bank. These discussions provided a glimpse on the inner workings of the companies they represent. It's one thing to read about a role in a job description, but hearing about it from someone living and breathing that job gives an entirely different perspective. 

Friday's session: Future-proofing your career 

The session, "Unmasking Imposter Syndrome with Sophie Scott”, was about identifying signs of the syndrome and then dealing with them mindfully. As Sophie unveiled the different forms of the syndrome and how it affects an individual, most of us realise how we’ve been subject to it at some point of time and how it has affected our courses of action.  

My learnings 

What I gained from this session is that beyond just recognising the problem, it delved into effective strategies to combat it, emphasising the power of manifestation. A key takeaway was learning the "superman pose" as a self-assurance technique, providing a tangible tool to tackle self-doubt.  

The benefit of Imperial’s Careers week 

I think attending Careers Week has been eye-opening for me in terms of figuring out in which direction I want my career to go. Talking to professionals from different fields and hearing about their journeys gave me a real-world perspective that you just can't get from a job description. I got to chat with alums, industry pros, and even dive into topics such as dealing with imposter syndrome. The networking part was about connecting with people who've been there and done that. I believe that these learnings would certainly guide my decisions as I map out my career path.  

My motivations for studying Imperial’s Weekend MBA 

I embarked on the Weekend MBA journey to deepen my understanding of key business concepts and strategies, particularly in operations, strategy, financial management, and leadership. This decision stemmed from my pivotal role in leading a sell-side transaction for a hospital in Nigeria positioning it for future growth, which highlighted the need for advanced business knowledge.  

I chose Imperial College Business School’s Weekend MBA for its renowned faculty, diverse student body, and robust curriculum that aligns perfectly with my career goals and being a leading institution with commitments to pioneering research and innovation at the intersection of science, engineering, medicine, and business. 

How the Weekend MBA aligned with my career goals 

Imperial’s Weekend MBA provided me with the opportunity to enhance my business knowledge and leadership skills, crucial for transitioning from the non-profit sector to for-profit ventures with interests in sustainability strategy, business and digital transformation. It equipped me with the knowledge and tools necessary to drive strategic growth initiatives, manage complex projects, and navigate dynamic business environments effectively. 

The Weekend MBA at Imperial College Business School is designed to accommodate busy professionals, offering a flexible schedule that allows me to balance work, personal life, and studies effectively.

The structure of Imperial’s Weekend MBA  

The Weekend MBA programme at Imperial College Business School is designed to accommodate busy professionals, offering a flexible schedule that allows me to balance work, personal life, and studies effectively.  

It comprises a series of core modules covering essential business topics, supplemented by a vast array of elective courses and practical projects tailored to suit individual career aspirations with teachings taking place one weekend per month. The programme also emphasises experiential learning, with networking opportunities, real-world application of classroom knowledge, mentorship, and exchange programmes in different parts of the world making the experience truly global. 

Applying what I have learned to the real world 

Throughout the programme, I've applied theoretical concepts and strategic frameworks learned in the classroom to my professional role, particularly in project management, financial analysis, and strategic planning. For instance, in a technology project, I integrated project management agile methodology with design thinking concepts, fostering a dynamic and innovative approach to problem-solving and project execution. This fusion not only streamlined tasks but also significantly enhanced the efficiency of project delivery, ultimately leading to improved project outcomes. 

Imperial’s Faculty 

The faculty at Imperial College Business School are exceptionally knowledgeable, diverse, engaging, and supportive, providing valuable insights and guidance throughout the programme. The resources available, including state-of-the-art facilities like multi-modal classrooms, online learning platforms, and access to industry experts, have been instrumental in enriching my learning experience and facilitating academic success. 

Networking opportunities  

The programme boasts of a vibrant community of individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, offering ample opportunities for networking and collaboration within the Weekend MBA cohort, the wider MBA suite and the Business School community with both current students and alumni. Through group projects, workshops, and extracurricular activities, I've had the privilege of connecting with peers from various industries and building lasting relationships with industry professionals. As a result, I’ve cultivated a robust professional network that transcends the confines of the classroom, enriching my learning journey and offering invaluable support in my professional endeavours.  

Career support 

Imperial's Career Team provide comprehensive support and resources to enhance my professional development and career advancement. From personalised career coaching and industry-specific workshops to networking events and internship opportunities, the career services team equipped me with the tools and guidance needed to achieve my career goals and transition into new roles and industries. It is indeed a journey to self-discovery while exploring the topic of leadership- in the ‘interview a leader’ task, where I delved into the nuances of leadership, drawing inspiration from a seasoned leader in the corporate world. This holistic approach to career development fostered not only skill development but also a profound sense of purpose and direction as I charted my path forward.  

The faculty at Imperial College Business School are exceptionally knowledgeable, diverse, engaging, and supportive, providing valuable insights and guidance throughout the programme.

Work-life balance 

Balancing the demands of work, personal life, and the Weekend MBA programme required effective time management, prioritisation, and unparalleled levels of discipline. I leveraged organisational tools, established clear goals and deadlines, and maintained open communication with my employer, family, and classmates to ensure I not only meet but exceeded my obligations in all facets of my life. This delicate balance fuelled my productivity and ensured that I am fully present and engaged in every aspect of the programme. 

Challenges I faced along the way 

Navigating the rigorous academic curriculum alongside professional responsibilities has been challenging at times, requiring resilience and perseverance. However, overcoming these challenges has been incredibly rewarding, as each milestone and accomplishment brings me closer to achieving my academic and career aspirations. The opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios and collaborate with talented peers has been particularly fulfilling in addition to building and expanding my network. 

My advice to applicants 

To those contemplating Imperial's Weekend MBA programme, I would encourage you to embrace the journey with open arms, immersing yourself in the abundance of resources, expertise, and opportunities at your disposal to truly enhance your learning journey. Stay proactive in your approach, connecting with fellow students, alumni, and faculty, and grasp every chance to translate classroom theories into practical solutions for real-world dilemmas. Amidst the challenges, maintain resilience and unwavering dedication to your academic and professional advancement, knowing that the invaluable skills and insights gained will pave the way for success in your career aspirations. Remember, the rewards far outweigh the challenges in the grand scheme of things. 

Walking into 10 Downing Street 

Walking into 10 Downing Street was a surreal experience. The walls in the stairwell were lined with portraits of prominent British historical figures (Winston Churchill and Earl Grey, to name a few), serving as a reminder of the historical significance of the building. Being in the heart of British political power was both humbling and exciting.  

Attending this event was one of many invaluable networking opportunities I’ve had while at Imperial College Business School. I always appreciate meeting new people and learning from them, which is one of the unique benefits of attending Imperial’s Full-Time MBA programme

Networking opportunities 

At the evening event, my fellow students and I had the privilege of meeting MBA students from Harvard Business School (HBS), faculty from both institutions, as well as investors and business leaders from across the United Kingdom. Conversations ranged from discussing current global business trends to sharing personal experiences and insights. This was a great opportunity to not only expand our professional networks but also offered valuable insights into the diverse paths one can take after completing an MBA.  

Attending this event was one of many invaluable networking opportunities I’ve had while at Imperial College Business School. I always appreciate meeting new people and learning from them, which is one of the unique benefits of attending Imperial’s Full-Time MBA programme. Being based in the heart of London, we are fortunate to be located within a global business hub, meaning there are countless chances to meet top talent and industry leaders.  

I had the pleasure of attending a panel discussion with Imperial and HBS alumni in London. The panellists were lively and engaging, ranging from entrepreneurs to CEOs in the tech space. The event was preceded by time to network with HBS students, and alumni from both schools. 

The main focus of the evening was to explore the experience and accomplishments of successful HBS alumni, specifically entrepreneurs and leaders. The panel discussion centred around their career trajectories, lessons learned, and perspectives on the current business landscape. The overarching theme was to inspire and guide current MBA students by leveraging the wisdom of those who had navigated similar paths. I found it quite promising to learn from individuals who had followed their passion, taken risks and were met with great success.  

The highlight of the day 

For me, the highlight of these experiences was the amazing connections gained as well as the memories created with classmates. The experience of visiting 10 Downing Street and the connections made during the evening panel event, underscored the significance of cultivating relationships with individuals from various backgrounds. It was a reminder that networking not only opens doors to opportunities but also provides a platform for continuous learning and collaboration. One key takeaway for me was the importance of gaining knowledge and connections beyond the classroom walls. Stepping outside the academic setting allowed us to explore various job opportunities and career paths, broadening our perspective and highlighting the importance of networking. 

My motivation to join the Imperial Enterprise Lab 

As someone with a keen interest in entrepreneurship, the Imperial Enterprise Lab seemed like the perfect fit for my ambitions. In fact, when considering which schools to pursue an MBA, the entrepreneurial spirit, emphasis on innovation, and the service provided by the Imperial Enterprise Lab, was a key factor in my decision to study at Imperial College Business School.  

As someone actively exploring the possibilities of working for a startup or being an entrepreneur myself, the Enterprise Lab was a natural choice. The inclusive nature of this service fosters a "hack" mentality, and this is a skill that I wanted to further develop alongside my academic study. 

What is the Imperial Enterprise Lab? 

The Imperial Enterprise Lab offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to empower student innovators and entrepreneurs. These include co-working space to foster collaboration and networking, mentorship from seasoned professionals, workshops and events, support in securing funding and investment, and opportunities to participate in challenges and competitions to refine skills and gain experience. 

It is truly a vibrant hub for budding entrepreneurs; facilitating startups at various stages of planning, trialling, and funding.

The Enterprise Lab operates as an open and supportive environment. You can drop in to use the co-working space, attend events, or seek advice as needed. The Enterprise Lab welcomes anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit, even if you're just exploring possibilities. You can come and learn, network, and get inspired to develop your own venture. Many people join to participate in the annual challenges, but you can also gain specific skills, or simply be part of the supportive community.  

The Enterprise Lab's online communication platform, Slack, provides a collaborative workspace, offering advice and networking opportunities for all members. Students and entrepreneurs are regularly exchanging ideas and experiences both virtually on the app and in-person. 

What’s more, the service doesn't take equity like many university incubators. This equity-free support ensures that every student, regardless of financial constraints, can access valuable resources.

Sawan Oberai is studying MSc Economics & Strategy for Business; he shares his motivations for studying this programme at Imperial College Business School. The programme focuses on the application of core disciplines to real-world situations, via interactive lectures, challenging case studies, immersive business simulations and real-life consultancy projects. 

Follow along as Sawan shares how he is finding the programme so far and what it means to be studying at Imperial College Business School.  

About me 

I come from the small, charming city of Jamshedpur in Northern India; and am now living my 'small town girl' dream in the bustling city of London. This journey is not just about education; it is about transformation and pursuing dreams. 

The question I often hear is, "Why MSc Management after aerospace engineering?" Well, after diving deep into the technical world and doing internships in the field, I realised I did not want a purely technical job. I was aiming for leadership roles, and managing projects, not just working on them. As I did not have prior foundation in business studies, I chose to pursue MSc Management at Imperial College Business School. 

The programme is more than just studying; it is about building real-life knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking. I love the fast-paced nature of the programme, which keeps me constantly engaged.

Why I chose Imperial College Business School 

When I first embarked on my university search, I found myself swimming in a sea of uncertainty. I aimed high, sending applications to my top choices, and soon enough, received a few positive responses, including one from Imperial College Business School. The moment I read my acceptance letter, it felt like an unbelievable dream - an opportunity to study at such a renowned institution. 

London location 

It was not only about the academics but also about the location of the Business School that drew me towards it. Located in the bustling centre of London, a city brimming with major organisations and limitless opportunities, Imperial stood as an ideal gateway. The networking possibilities both within the city and at the Business School seemed infinite.  

Living in London also meant fulfilling a childhood fantasy. As a Potterhead, being this close to the magical world of Harry Potter is a dream come true! 

Imperial’s programme structure 

What truly set Imperial College Business School apart for me was its programme structure. The flexibility to choose from a wide array of electives meant I could tailor my learning to my interests and career aspirations.  

This versatility was something I did not find in many other institutions, which often only offered a dissertation in their final term. Imperial, on the other hand, provided diverse paths like entrepreneurship, consulting, social projects, and even work placements. 

Alumni Network 

Let's not forget about the alumni network at Imperial. Its vast and diverse, offering a window into various industries and career paths. This aspect alone presented an invaluable resource for understanding the different pathways one could pursue post-graduation.

Induction week 

My first week was truly unforgettable. We had an incredible array of activities that are now etched in our memories. From interactive workshops to seminars covering various job sectors, the experience was enriching. Our induction week took place in the famous Science Museum, exclusively reserved for us Imperial College Business School students. This experience at the museum was not only fun but also a superb networking opportunity where I learned a lot.  

We also had day trip to Reading for team-building activities like pole climbing, wall climbing, laser tag, and more. The diversity of our cohort, in terms of nationality and professional backgrounds, made working together even more enjoyable. 

Imperial’s MSc Management 

The programme is more than just studying; it is about building real-life knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking. I love the fast-paced nature of the programme, which keeps me constantly engaged. Assignments challenge us to apply classroom learning to real-world problems, encouraging our ideas and recommendations. For me, the standout has been the Strategic Management module. The case studies used in this module have been very intriguing, allowing us to explore solutions and understand the rationale behind organisational decisions.  

We recently had a simulation as part of our Organisational Behaviour (OB) module, and it was fascinating to see such a theory-based subject being taught with a tech-driven approach. Starting this year, there has been an innovative transition to group dissertations that incorporate simulations, further demonstrating Imperial’s dedication to leading in contemporary business trends. 

One aspect of the programme that I am particularly excited about is the Entrepreneurship module. This was one of the key modules that drew me to Imperial. The module is designed to inspire students to generate their own start-up concepts and present them to a panel of judges. It is an incredible opportunity to develop my own business concepts and understand the practicalities of bringing these ideas to fruition. Presenting them to the judges is not just an academic exercise; it is a real-world test of confidence and entrepreneurial skills. 

Social life 

As one of the social leaders for my class of around 200 students, I help organise these events. We recently organised a social outing for our cohort at Winter Wonderland. We also had a James Bond-themed party for the Management Masters’ suite, complete with roulette, photobooths, and plenty of dancing. 

The programme staff are incredibly friendly and genuinely concerned about making improvements. They are also accessible and responsive, which makes a huge difference. 

In September, we welcomed another great cohort of Finance Master’s students as they begin their one-year journey on the following programmes:   

• MSc Finance
• MSc Finance & Accounting
• MSc Financial Technology
• MSc Investment & Wealth Management
• MSc Risk Management & Financial Engineering

620 students have joined Imperial College Business School across these 5 programmes, with 44% of students being female and the average age being 22. The cohort comprises 77 nationalities, giving students a diverse and enriching learning environment. These students come with diverse career and educational backgrounds, with many originating from fields such as Mathematics, Finance/Accounting, Economics, and Science/Medicine.

About me 

I have an insatiable appetite for all things business, economics, finance, and politics. The way these subjects influence the human mind and shape our world is what truly fascinates me. Hence, why the MSc Economics & Strategy for Business programme at Imperial College Business School has been the ideal environment for me to explore and flourish within this dynamic business landscape. 

The Imperial choice 

Picture this – the heart of London, a stellar alumni board, an outstanding faculty, and a curriculum that’s as dynamic as the city itself. Imperial College Business School was a no-brainer for me. Being in London is like being at the epi-centre of the business universe, and I wanted a front-row seat to witness and learn from the best. 

The joy of intellectual stimulation 

Fast forward to the present, my experience has been nothing short of exhilarating. The programme has managed to strike a balance between being interesting and intellectually stimulating. We aren’t just students; we're future CEOs and board members in the making. 

One highlight of last term was our Corporate Strategy elective. Instead of traditional textbook learning, we were thrown into the deep end with a real-world challenge. My team took on the mighty Netflix, dissecting its decision to dive headfirst into the streaming arena. This exercise opened our eyes to all types of considerations that companies face when making strategic decisions. 

Nurturing future leaders 

I've had the chance to hone my leadership skills by taking on the role of Student-Staff Committee (SSC) and actively participating in various clubs and competitions. It's a holistic approach to leadership development that goes beyond the confines of a classroom. 

Eager anticipation for electives 

The programme offers a fantastic array of electives, and I’m eagerly counting down the days until I can delve into the world of geopolitics. The anticipation of interacting with a diverse cohort and exploring these specialised subjects is thrilling.  

Where technology meets business 

Innovating and applying technological solutions are an integral part of the programme. Learning coding skills in the first semester was an eye-opener, as it highlighted the essential role that technology plays in today's business landscape. Whether analysing case studies or real-world scenarios, we consistently explored the dynamic relationship between technology and business.

Imperial’s MSc Economics & Business Strategy programme is not just an academic pursuit; it's a transformative journey. It's about gaining insights, refining leadership skills, and embracing the dynamic intersection of technology and business.

As I begin to navigate through this academic journey, I can't help but feel like I'm not just learning about the world; I'm actively shaping its future. I am excited by the adventures that lie ahead and the invaluable lessons to be learned on this programme in the bustling heart of London!

The purpose of the Performance Laboratory 

One of the main skills we need to succeed in our careers post MBA is being able to give a powerful and impactful pitch. At the Royal College of Music, they understand the importance of performance and some of the small details that can turn a presentation from good to great. The Performance Laboratory is a great experience to learn both some areas you are strong in while also finding areas you have an opportunity to improve in.  

The Laboratory allows you to observe the non-verbal aspects of your pitch. Our presenter, Dr George Waddell was able to mute the audio so you could observe what your body language was portraying as you presented. Even more interesting was observing each other while not presenting as you could observe some traits that could be distracting to an audience and detract from the person who was presenting.  

Building confidence from the Laboratory 

The Laboratory shows 200 people in a room giving you a chance to practice giving eye contact to different parts of the room and how to respond to different audience body language. By practicing in this simulated environment, it helps condition us to be less nervous on the day, building our confidence to be able to deliver on the day of the presentation. 

The impact of the Performance Laboratory 

The Performance Laboratory feedback helps get me ready for some of the important pitches we must give throughout the year. Learning these skills early in my course will improve my confidence when giving a presentation to different audiences. It also reminded our team how vital it is to practice not only our individual parts, but also how to perfect the entrance, the handovers and the finale.  

Transferable skills from my MBA programme to my future career 

Watching a video of yourself presenting is something a lot of people, me included, find a bit uncomfortable. It does however give you a better idea of what other people are seeing and sometimes you may be displaying emotions and body language that may contrast the message you are trying to send. This will also be important to remember during job interviews in the future and will be something I will always practice improving for the future!

My advice to future MBA students using the Laboratory 

If you want to change your pitch from good to great, consider using a virtual simulator. It has three key benefits over the traditional form of practicing;  

1. You can practice your response to an uninterested or disagreeable audience, making it much less likely to throw your performance off on the day.
2. By watching the recording of your pitch, you will see some body language traits you were not aware of and understand how to accentuate the positive traits and stop the distracting ones 
3. It helps you understand that your role isn’t over once you are finished talking. The presentation is a team effort, and you should be focussed on supporting the current presenter throughout using body language cues and gestures.

Learn more about the Performance Laboratory. 

Why I chose Imperial College Business School  

I was always fascinated by London and the global possibilities it held, which motivated me to apply for my Master's there. Imperial College Business School is one of the most coveted choices offering not only a competitive start to my career but also the kind of multinational exposure I was looking for. Specifically, Imperial stood out to me for its excellence in finance education, its focus on responsible business practices, and its diverse student community. 

Additionally, studying alongside classmates from over 20 countries created an enriching cross-cultural experience that has helped me succeed in an increasingly globalised financial sector. I was able to gain diverse perspectives and build a multinational professional network. The collaborative environment also prepared me well for teamwork in fast-paced London. 

My post-graduate achievements  

Professionally, my MSc Finance has opened doors to respected finance roles, like my previous position as a Quantitative Analyst at Tudor Investment Corporation as well as my current post in the Lead Advisory division at Ernst & Young. In both jobs, I have developed specialised technical skills and leadership abilities that have accelerated my career within quantitative analysis and advisory services in the London financial sector. 

On a personal level, my degree truly transformed my global perspective and cross-cultural competencies. Studying alongside such an internationally diverse group of peers expanded my worldview. I learned to communicate, collaborate, and solve problems more effectively with individuals from varying backgrounds. This has served me well in succeeding within multinational corporations in London's diverse financial district. 

Additionally, through Imperial's focus on ethical business practices, I deepened my commitment to using my finance skills responsibly. As I progress professionally, I strive to bring both technical excellence and steadfast integrity to my work. Overall, my Master’s from Imperial College Business School has equipped me with the hard and soft skills to continue making positive impacts in global finance. 

Witnessing the drive and talents of these extraordinary women gave me a strong sense of community and reaffirmed my commitment to female advancement in the field. Although barriers persist, I emerged from Imperial College Business School feeling equipped, emboldened and responsible to champion women leadership in global finance.

What I valued the most 

What I valued most was the immense breadth and depth of financial subjects I was able to study. From corporate finance, investment banking, and financial econometrics to specialised topics like PE, VC, and M&A—Imperial offered an incredibly wide selection. I tailored my curriculum to pursue diverse facets of finance. 

This wide range of electives gave me versatility and allowed me to discover my passions within the field. Ultimately, it equipped me with multi-dimensional finance skills that set me apart in securing coveted roles. The vast finance education was truly invaluable preparation for leadership positions in global financial firms in London. I emerged ready to add value across banking domains—and that flexible expertise is what I treasure most from Imperial. 

Why I chose a career in Finance 

I chose finance  as a career because I have always been fascinated by financial markets and excited by the fast-paced, challenging nature of the industry. During my undergraduate economics studies, I discovered I had an aptitude for numbers, modelling, and data analysis. Finance built upon those strengths perfectly while allowing me to remain closely connected to business operations. 

Additionally, entering Finance opened doors to work internationally. As an ambitious young Indian woman, I aspired to have global impact in a future-oriented industry. The field combined my interests in mathematics, problem-solving, global affairs and strategic decision making. With possibilities to specialise across banking, investments, financial advisory and more—I knew finance could be dynamic and intellectually stimulating over the long run. 

Most attractive, however, was finance’s potential for positive change on both micro and macro levels. Helping businesses grow sustainably, enabling trade across borders, designing inclusive financial products—the field facilitates economic prosperity. I felt called to be part of that. Finance empowers visionaries, uplifts communities, and transforms industries for the better. That ability to drive progress both locally and globally is what truly drew me in. 

Imperial’s support 

To help towards closing the gender gap in business, Imperial offers a Women in Finance scholarship of £25,000 (for 2024 entry) to those demonstrating academic excellence and leadership potential. In addition to the financial reward, recipients gain access to networking events and can share their outstanding achievement with recruiters when applying for jobs. 

Finance is traditionally seen as a ‘male-dominated' industry, and as a result some women may have reservations about working in this area. However, this shouldn’t be the case as steps are being made to make the industry inclusive for all, beginning at institutions like Imperial. 

This award is available for all five Finance Master’s programmes at Imperial, which range from the broader to more specialised topics like fintech and risk management: 

• MSc Finance 
• MSc Finance & Accounting 
• MSc Financial Technology 
• MSc Investment & Wealth Management 
• MSc Risk Management & Financial Engineering