As the sun dipped below the horizon in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum closed its doors to the public. The museum came alive and transformed into a captivating venue, exclusively for Imperial College Business School students to celebrate the 2024 academic year kickstart. Held in the Hintze Hall, the event united students and alumni from across our programmes at the Business School. A neighbour to Imperial College London, the Natural History Museum provided a space that felt like a scene from a movie. As our students start a new academic term, they reflect on their experience so far and share highlights of this unforgettable event.

Rounak Mahakul

MSc Risk Management & Financial Engineering

Nationality: Indian 

Throughout my first term, Imperial College Business School has provided me a great platform to showcase and harness my leadership capabilities by making it accessible to various events ranging from social to career fairs to network with alumni better fostering a deeper meaningful relationship.  

I have found the classroom to have experienced professors that structure the programme in such a way that contrasts while mapping theoretical knowledge with practical implications relating to the applications used while delving deeper into the world of finance.  

An unforgettable event 

Prior to the event, I felt so excited to join a student event with amazing people with diverse background meeting new bunch of beautiful people bringing back to the Business School calendar. More than 500+ people joining  the party couldn’t have been more exciting moment to capture these moments in the middle of this intense one-year program. I remember before joining the Business School, students would always talk about this Winter Party as an unforgettable event.  

My personal highlight of the party 

Personally, being with the classmates, communities and bright minds at Business School enjoying this lively experience made this party eventful and full of life. Also, I had great moment to cherish with the people over clink of glasses and kickstart the year 2024 at the National History Museum party.  

Additionally, we were fortunate enough to meet with the Imperial alumni who were also invited to the party; I spoke to them to understand about their experience at Imperial and managing workloads this intense year.  

Why I chose Imperial’s MSc Finance programme 

I selected the MSc Finance programme at Imperial College Business School due to the potential it offered for advancing my expertise in this field. With a background spanning private, public, and entrepreneurial sectors, I was keen to deepen my understanding of how global applications of corporate finance, private equity, and venture capital operate, reaching beyond the borders of Latin America. 

As a Latina, I value the opportunity to further immerse myself, becoming a voice for my community and actively promoting diversity in the finance world. 

My motivations for applying for this scholarship 

Acknowledging the congruence between my personal and professional trajectory and the specified scholarship criteria, I felt inspired to submit my application. As a Latina, I value the opportunity to further immerse myself, becoming a voice for my community and actively promoting diversity in the finance world.  

What Imperial’s LATAM Regional Scholarship means to me 

Securing the scholarship brought infinite happiness, gratitude, and a profound sense of motivation to commence my academic journey. The LATAM Regional Scholarship has not just unlocked new opportunities for me but has also played a substantial role in shaping my personal development. 

The transformative impact of this scholarship 

The scholarship has surpassed my expectations on multiple fronts. Academically, it has provided me with the knowledge I was eagerly seeking. On a personal level, the scholarship has not only given me access to outstanding networking events, but it has introduced me to intelligent and supportive classmates, offered insightful seminars and provided a fulfilling life in the vibrant city of London. 

My guidance for prospective scholarship applicants 

My advice is simple: Apply! It is truly the best step you can take. If you believe your profile aligns with the requirements, be confident in sharing your unique story and emphasise why you would be a valuable addition to the cohort. 

My motivation for studying Imperial’s MSc International Health Management programme 

Having worked in an under-resourced and overburdened healthcare system of a developing nation, I have experienced first-hand the challenges that both patients and providers face when it comes to healthcare management. Through previous experience, I have developed an interest in branching out and understanding the more non-clinical aspects of medicine, as well as exploring the contributions I can make towards healthcare equality at a global level. The MSc International Health Management programme presented as the perfect opportunity for me to step into this learning curve and gain the necessary knowledge, skills and insight into global healthcare management. 

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.

What the Africa Regional scholarship means to me 

When I found out I received this scholarship, I was surprised, ecstatic and immensely grateful. I was thrilled to have been awarded this opportunity, and it honestly felt great to know that all my efforts were not just acknowledged, but also appreciated.  

In addition to the immense value contributed to both my academic and professional roles, this recognition holds particular significance in my personal life as well. My experience working as a doctor in a developing nation has inspired me to go beyond my geographical and clinical healthcare learnings. I’m motivated by the desire to both expand my knowledge on healthcare systems and contribute my own learned skills and understandings towards improving global healthcare. I am truly passionate about helping others.  My desire to improve health and wellbeing has progressively extended from service provision at an individual level to service delivery at a more population-based global level. This scholarship, offered by Imperial College Business School has encouraged the opportunity for me to step into this extension, and in doing so, has enabled me to pursue my passion with an even greater vigour. 

My motivations behind applying for this scholarship 

What’s great about this process is that I didn’t have to apply separately for this scholarship – by submitting my Master’s programme application within a certain deadline, I was deemed automatically eligible based on my South African background aligning with the scholarship’s set geographic criteria. 

Growing up in the multi-cultural country of South Africa, I have developed diverse comprehensions, as well as an eagerness to engage with and learn from individuals who hold thoughts, ideas and viewpoints that are different from my own. I believe that every interaction with someone is a chance for you to both learn something and teach something, and engaging with others from different backgrounds inspires a deeper, more educative and empathetic way of living. 

My motivation hence stems from wanting to contribute towards the cultivation of a society that is not just geographically and culturally diverse, but also one that is engaging, understanding, caring and curious. 

The impact of my scholarship on my academic and personal goals 

This scholarship helps support my personal goals – by allowing me to pursue my passion of helping others. Academically, it will allow me to gain knowledge and insight into global healthcare management and enable me to pursue a meaningful and fulfilling career in this domain. 

This scholarship brings plenty of networking opportunities. At the beginning of the term, there was a breakfast held for scholarship recipients which allowed us all to meet and get to know one another – it was a really nice experience. We had the opportunity to attend a ‘VIP’ reception before Imperial’s Winter Party at the Natural History Museum. This included scholarship holders and DSAC members. It was a great evening to network with other student peers.  

Advice for prospective scholarship applicants 

My advice would be to put forward your most authentic self. Think about what makes you unique – what features of your past, present and future you believe will stand out. You need to be able to communicate and express how you’ve shaped up to become the person that you are and what positive changes you want to bring to the world moving forward. 

Also – don’t doubt yourself! Take advantage of every opportunity and experience that comes your way and make the most of it. 

My favourite facilities at Imperial 

Imperial College Business School's campus in South Kensington is a vibrant blend of modern architecture and historic charm which has made it an inspiring place for my education so far. There are so many resources and facilities available to make the most of your time studying here.  

The campus is always buzzing with energy, encouraging collaboration and innovation. It is nice to see a diverse student body and faculty bringing lots of different perspectives. There are always engaging workshops, networking events, and alumni talks that you can attend, complementing the academic programme.

The library has been a great place to go after classes to finish up some readings, work on papers, and even catch up on lectures. Various floors serve distinct purposes in the building. The first floor is great for collaboration, featuring large round tables with ample seating for group work. Meanwhile, other floors are designated as either silent or quiet zones, providing a relaxed environment for focused work when needed.  

The modern classrooms at the Business School have been another standout feature during my studies. Each seat is equipped with a power outlet, and the lectures are recorded, allowing me to review any material I might have missed.

Campus life at Imperial College Business School 

Studying on campus has become one of my favourite things to do since moving. Situated in the heart of South Kensington, the Business School is a short distance from Hyde Park, surrounded by diverse food options, and conveniently located near High Street Kensington for enjoyable in-between class shopping. 

The campus is always buzzing with energy, encouraging collaboration and innovation. It is nice to see a diverse student body and faculty bringing lots of different perspectives. There are always engaging workshops, networking events, and alumni talks that you can attend, complementing the academic programme. 

Must visit London locations 

London is so rich in history and culture and there is always more to explore and discover. Of course, we have iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge, along with incredible museums such as the Victoria & Albert, Science, and Natural History - all just steps away from the Business School. Beyond that, there are vibrant areas like Spitalfields, Shoreditch, Soho and Borough Market which are must-visit areas for food enthusiasts who are looking to get a taste of London’s culinary scene. 

Soho has been my favourite due to its vibrant cultural mix, and plethora of restaurants, bars, and cafes to explore and indulge in. I have so many memories in this area, from trying new foods, to discovering hidden gems, and enjoying live performances at the iconic West End theatres. Soho caters to many tastes and interests, and it encapsulates the spirit of London.

My experience studying in London 

Studying in London is a very unique and enriching experience that goes beyond just academics. The city's diversity broadens your perspective and fosters a global mindset. Meeting people from all over the world, you learn so much personally which complements your academics.  

We are also in a city that is one of the largest and most impactful in the world. There are world-renowned businesses, financial institutions, and entrepreneurs throughout the city creating an unparalleled networking opportunity. The city’s cultural diversity is also mirrored in its neighbourhoods as each offers a different flavour, atmosphere, and experience.  

I truly believe studying in London ensures students not only gain a top-tier education but immerse themselves in a hub of innovation, culture, and business that makes the experience an unforgettable journey of growth and discovery.  

But I will say, you get what you put in. Studying in London is only as good as you are willing to make it. So don’t be afraid to reach out to people, make friends, explore new places, try new things, and be the one to message first! 

Executive MBA students complete a one-week international residency, visiting top business schools and organisations and gaining first-hand experience of international business contexts in other countries. In this blog, Executive MBA student Georges Panaghoulis shares his experience after attending the international residency in the US where the cohort visited MIT – Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston and Stanford University in San Fransisco. Georges reflects on the transformative experience of engaging with industry experts and professors and how the trip enriched his understanding of global business and leadership.  

Georges Panaghoulis

Nationality: French, Greek 

Education: Polytech Marseille 

Company and role: Island Oil, Head of Price Risk and Hedging 

My highlights of the residency  

The first segment of our Executive MBA's international residency took us to the United States, where we delved into the innovation hubs of MIT in Boston and Stanford University in Silicon Valley. These institutions are more than just academic powerhouses; they are dynamic ecosystems driving real-world innovation. Our residency melded theoretical knowledge with hands-on practices, illuminating the entire innovation lifecycle from ideation to execution. A pivotal insight was the cultural embrace of risk-taking and failure, not as setbacks but as integral parts of the innovative journey. Standout experiences included our visits to the SRI and Plug & Play Institute, where we observed how startups pitch to investors and how these institutions foster rapid innovation.  

“Residencies offer invaluable opportunities to witness innovation and business success across different cultures, particularly in the US. These experiences broaden your perspective, provide expert insights, and allow for personal and professional growth.” 

How this residency contributed to my learning 

The residency enriched my understanding of global business and leadership, especially in the context of American market dynamics. The key lessons included the emphasis on diversity, flexibility, and market orientation in U.S. companies, demonstrated during our visit to Sanofi and through interactions with venture capitalists. Stanford's sessions on innovation, risk management, and a workshop on business ethics provided new perspectives on leadership, stressing the importance of ethical decision-making and the power of a supportive network in fostering innovation. 

The opportunity to interact with industry experts and professors 

Engaging with experts like Phill Budden, Stuart Krusell, Fiona Murray, and Scott Stern at MIT, and Riitta Katila at Stanford, was enlightening. Their diverse perspectives on building successful innovation ecosystems, deep tech innovation, entrepreneurial strategy, and overcoming organisational innovation struggles provided invaluable insights. These interactions underscored the significance of collaboration, big-picture thinking, and creating safe environments for innovation. 

Tom Byers' course on entrepreneurial ecosystems and Brandon Farwell’s workshop on business ethics were particularly impactful. They provided deep dives into the essential components of successful ventures and the ethical considerations vital in today's complex business world. 

Exposure to the US business environment  

My exposure to the US business environment highlighted the importance of embracing risk, being agile, and market focused. Insights gained from practical experiences at SRI, startup pitches at Plug & Play, and discussions on innovation and venture capitalism emphasised the need for efficiency, strong networking, and the art of storytelling in business. 

My advice to future MBA students 

I strongly recommend embracing international residencies. They offer invaluable opportunities to witness innovation and business success across different cultures, particularly in the US. These experiences broaden your perspective, provide expert insights, and allow for personal and professional growth. 

How did it feel when you found out you’d secured this scholarship? 

I was absolutely delighted when I learned I had secured the Women’s Scholarship. I have been planning to pursue an MBA at Imperial College Business School for several years now and so, when I discovered that not only had I secured my place on the course but had also been awarded this scholarship, I felt grateful and truly excited to start on this new journey.  

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

I initially qualified as a lawyer and then transitioned to a commercial role in the aviation industry; both the legal and aviation industries are still some way off achieving parity of representation for women at senior levels and so, throughout my career, I have been keen to explore how best to attract and retain female talent within these industries. When it came to applying for my MBA at Imperial College Business School, I was keen to continue my commitment to women’s issues and I felt the Women’s Scholarship was the perfect way to advance that aspiration. 

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

This scholarship has boosted my opportunity to commence my journey in the world of business academia, which I believe will provide me with a sound basis of understanding across a broad gamut of business topics. This I see as key to my future success in a commercial role. On a personal level, the scholarship has enabled me to realise my ambition of pursuing a truly global MBA programme with a cohort that is diverse in terms of both location and business background. It has also given me the opportunity to attend a world class university that puts the student at the centre of the academic experience.  

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

Reflect on your skills and experience and apply for the scholarships where you feel you have the best chance of success and that you believe reflect your values. Whilst some of the scholarships are more general in nature, others have a specific focus (e.g. leadership, diversity etc.) and so, I would encourage all students to consider what is the best fit for them. As scholarships are typically awarded early in the process, my advice to future students would be to apply for your course at Imperial College Business School as early as possible.

Imperial College Business School’s Full-Time MBA is designed with our students in mind, providing core learning alongside options to personalise their programme, and transformational global and leadership experiences. Our London location provides our students with networking and career opportunities in Europe’s start-up capital and global business hub. Eva Look, Full-Time MBA student shares her experience studying in London and why she chose to pursue her MBA at Imperial College Business School. She also details a day in her life at the Business School, offering an insight in what it’s like to study at Imperial.   

Aside from my classmates and the location, one key aspect of Imperial‘s MBA programme that led me to choose this business school is the remarkable flexibility it offers. While we have compulsory modules in the first term, the programme allows us to select our own concentrations from a diverse range of modules.

A day in the life of my first term at Imperial College Business School

London is an exceptional city to pursue an MBA degree for several reasons. First and foremost, its diversity and vibrancy make it a delightful place to live. The city is filled with people from diverse backgrounds, which facilitates easy adaptation and fosters a rich cultural experience. Additionally, London offers a multitude of opportunities for personal growth and enrichment. Within a 30-minute walk, one can visit museums to expand their knowledge, explore art galleries to appreciate the latest artistic endeavours, unwind at bars, and find solace in parks for relaxation. 

Aside from my classmates and the location, one key aspect of Imperial‘s MBA programme that led me to choose this business school is the remarkable flexibility it offers. While we have compulsory modules in the first term, the programme allows us to select our own concentrations from a diverse range of modules. What sets this flexibility apart is that it doesn't require us to make a rigid decision from the very beginning. Instead, we have the opportunity to explore different areas of interest. For instance, I have been able to participate in workshops organised by the Enterprise Lab while also exploring ESG-related activities organised by the career clubs. This flexibility holds great importance to me as it enables me to thoroughly explore my interests and make sure I am fully invested in a particular subject before committing to it. 
 
7:00 am – I start my day by waking up at 7:00 am and following my regular routine. I get ready to leave my home at 8:00 am. I live in Stratford, and my daily commute to South Kensington station takes approximately 40 minutes. Once I arrive at the station, it's just a short 10-minute walk to the campus. 

8:50 am – Before heading to my 9:00 am lecture at Imperial College Business School, I make a quick stop at the MBA lounge to grab a cup of coffee. This is not only a chance to fuel up for the day but also an excellent opportunity to catch up with my classmates, engage in conversations, and enjoy a pleasant walk to the lecture theatre together. 

9:00 am – Today's lecture focuses on Strategy, and it's our designated day for group presentations. Our study groups have been assigned the task of analysing an industry, comparing the performance of three firms within that industry, and formulating strategic recommendations for the underperforming firm to gain or regain a competitive advantage. The class proves to be extremely insightful as we learn from the diverse range of presentations covering various industries.

3:00 pm – After class, I return to the MBA Lounge to enjoy a cup of tea and work on my individual assignments. This is also a time to socialise with classmates who use the lounge as a place to relax and recharge. Some of our classmates are also working on their group assignments during this time. 

5:00 pm – Soon, it's time for the careers event! As a committee member of both the 180 Degrees Consulting Imperial Branch and the Consulting Careers Club, I have organised a collaborative event with the Social Impact and Responsible Business Club this evening. The event brings together distinguished speakers from Deloitte, Archipel&Co, Pollination, and Dalberg, who share real-life case studies from their respective industries. The event draws a significant turnout, and during the subsequent networking session, participants provide positive feedback. 

7:30 pm – After successfully concluding the event, I make my way back home from South Kensington station. During the journey, I take the opportunity to catch up on the readings on my phone, preparing myself for the upcoming class later this week.  

9:00 pm – Upon arriving home, I freshen up and take some time to relax before bed. Engaging in gentle stretching exercises helps me unwind after a busy day. 

11:00 pm – I head to bed at around 11:00 pm, ensuring that I get enough rest for my class scheduled for the following day at 9:00 am. 

Our MSc Strategic Marketing programme (online, part-time) is a two-year programme that provides students with marketing fundamentals that intersect with the latest in technology and innovation. Delivered via The Hub, our bespoke virtual learning environment, this online programme offers a structured learning journey to guide you through each module alongside your classmates. 

Karolina Ruiz Rogelj, a MSc Strategic Marketing (online, part-time) student, shares her motivations for studying the programme, as well as her favourite aspects of the programme throughout her first term.

Key Takeaways 

To future students reading this: take a chance, be yourself, and apply. It doesn’t matter what background you have, how old you are or where you come from, the cohort is a mix of people of all ages and backgrounds. From the people to the programme content, I can confidently say that it has been an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience so far and I know it will be for you too.