My journey to study at Imperial College Business School  

I am currently enrolled in a Master's in Business Analytics programme. I decided to pursue a Master's in Business Analytics at Imperial College Business School due to its unparalleled relevance in today's dynamic business landscape. The programme's meticulously crafted modules caught my attention, offering a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. This hands-on approach to learning appealed to me as it aligned seamlessly with my career aspirations.  

Taking a leap of faith, I decided to leave my comfort zone in India and embark on an educational journey abroad. Imperial College Business School's reputation as one of the top-ranking universities in the world for my course played a crucial role in my decision. The prospect of learning from distinguished faculty members and being a part of an institution known for shaping future leaders in business analytics was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. 

As I miss the warmth of home, I find solace in the warmth of the relationships I've built here. Exploring the city with my new friends and sharing stories of our respective homes has been a heartening experience, reminding me that despite the distance, I'm not alone.

Beyond the academic aspect, the allure of studying in London added an extra layer of excitement to my decision. The vibrant city, rich in history and culture, promised an unparalleled living experience. Being part of such a diverse cohort, where perspectives from around the globe converge, has enriched my learning experience, providing insights that extend far beyond the classroom.

My first winter in London 

This marks my first winter in London, and it's been a mix of emotions that encapsulates the essence of this unique experience. As I navigate through the chilly streets and bustling markets, there's a palpable sense of missing my family during this festive season. However, amidst the nostalgia, there's a genuine excitement for the year ahead and the new connections I've forged with incredible people in this vibrant city. 

As I miss the warmth of home, I find solace in the warmth of the relationships I've built here. Exploring the city with my new friends and sharing stories of our respective homes has been a heartening experience, reminding me that despite the distance, I'm not alone. This winter, with its blend of nostalgia and anticipation, is shaping up to be a memorable chapter in my life, marked by the resilience to adapt, the joy of new connections, and the beauty of discovering the unexpected in the heart of London. 

South Kensington itself is a treasure trove of beauty and culture, with iconic buildings and attractions adding to the magical atmosphere.

South Kensington festivities  

Living near South Kensington during the Christmas season is an absolute delight, and London, true to its nature, offers an abundance of festive activities. South Kensington itself is a treasure trove of beauty and culture, with iconic buildings and attractions adding to the magical atmosphere. One of the highlights has been exploring the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, a short distance away from our campus. The transformation of the park into a festive extravaganza is truly enchanting. 

From the dazzling lights to the festive markets, there's an infectious energy that makes it a must-visit during the holiday season. What's particularly special is the involvement of Imperial students in organising choral singing events. The harmonious voices echoing around Hyde Park, especially in front of the Royal Albert Hall, create a mesmerising experience that adds a unique touch to the festivities. 

The streets around South Kensington are adorned with stunning Christmas trees, each telling a story of the season in its own way. The grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall, standing as a majestic backdrop to a beautifully decorated tree, is a sight to behold. The combination of historic architecture and festive decorations creates a picturesque scene that captures the essence of Christmas in London. 

Festive celebrations and traditions on campus 

The festive spirit has beautifully woven its way onto the campus, and the decorations around Imperial College Business School have added a touch of holiday cheer to the usual academic environment. The Christmas trees scattered across campus are not only delightful to look at but also serve as communal hubs for spreading festive joy. 

One of my favourite Christmas trees on campus happens to be at the library. Spending a significant amount of time there, as is the case for many business school students, I've come to appreciate the festive ambiance it adds to my study sessions. It seems like the perfect blend of academic dedication and holiday celebration, which, in the world of business school, might just be the most harmonious pairing. 

What makes the library Christmas tree particularly special is the option for students to hang handwritten decorations on its branches. It's a heartwarming tradition that allows everyone to contribute a personal touch to the festive decor. Some notes are beautifully warm and sincere, capturing the essence of the season, while others bring a smile with their humour and wit. It's a reminder that even during intense study sessions, a bit of holiday humour can go a long way. 

Balancing celebrations and exams 

Balancing Christmas activities and the demands of exams and coursework is undoubtedly a challenge, but with effective time management and a supportive network, it becomes a manageable feat. It's a delicate juggling act that requires strategic planning and a commitment to both academic success and festive enjoyment. 

One of the key strategies that has helped me strike a balance is efficient time management. Creating a detailed schedule that allocates dedicated time for studying, completing assignments, and engaging in festive activities has been crucial. This ensures that I meet my academic commitments while still having moments to savour the holiday season. 

Additionally, being involved in group study sessions with peers has proven to be immensely beneficial. Not only does it foster a sense of camaraderie during what can be a stressful time, but it also allows for a more efficient understanding of course materials. Exploring concepts together and sharing insights can expedite the learning process, making it easier to grasp complex topics in a shorter amount of time.  

My First impressions of Imperial College Business School 

The Imperial Alumni community is astonishing. The calibre of the people I met is incredibly with a lot of Imperial Business School alumni in senior positions across multiple companies. So far, my best Imperial story was to meet with Nick Strange, an Imperial Business School alumnus based in Dubai working for Arthur D. Little. The level of support and mentorship I got surpassed my expectations. Based on my experience, I  can say that all the alumni around the globe will always make the time to help no matter how busy or senior they are! 

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

I feel very grateful to have been awarded one of the ten Sainsbury Management Fellowship scholarships. This scholarship will greatly support me to attend a Full-Time MBA at a world class institution like Imperial College Business School that may have not been possible without. The network of the SMF is something I aspire to leverage to help nurture my curiosity and development for years to come. The SMF alumni network spans across multiple industries and specialisms and having access to this breadth of knowledge and experiences will, overall, make me a more experienced professional and a more complete individual. 

This scholarship will greatly support me to attend a Full-Time MBA at a world class institution like Imperial College Business School that may have not been possible without.

How did you go about finding financial support for your MBA? 

I leveraged Imperial College Business School’s website . A lot of information was present about all the different scholarships, including the Sainsbury Management Fellowship. Also, I decided to engage with Imperial College Business School Alumni to gather insight about where to look for additional financial support to make sure I exhausted my options. 

What do you hope to achieve through your MBA experience? 

At this point in my MBA, my focus is to land a job in a boutique consultancy in London or as a strategy manager in a technology firm that I can help grow. However, I must say that it’s difficult to resist the temptation to explore all the different opportunities that are offered and I am quite sure my mind will change significantly in the few months as I explore more and more the curriculum offered by the program.

Carolina Mattosinho Napoleao, a graduate of Imperial College Business School’s Full-Time MBA (2019), shares her personal insights into the transformative impact of her Business School experience. In this interview piece, she sheds light on her journey building her leadership skills, transitioning her career into a technology-driven industry, and her highlights of studying the Imperial’s Full-Time MBA programme. 

Nationality: Brazilian 

Undergraduate education: Instituto Mauá de Tecnologia (São Paulo, Brazil) Bachelor’s Degree, Mechanical Production Engineering 

Company and role: Marketplace Sr. Manager Mercado Libre 

What was your background and prior experience to studying the Full-Time MBA?

Upon graduating with a degree in Mechanical Production Engineering in Brazil, I embarked on a career with Latin America's largest airline company, marking the beginning of my professional journey. Throughout my tenure, I had the opportunity to live abroad for almost 4 years in Chile and garnered invaluable experience in operational and strategic capacities. 

The Full-Time MBA was instrumental in accelerating my career, enabling me to navigate this transition successfully. It not only broadened my perspectives but also equipped me with the skills needed for the challenges of a new industry and location. The MBA was worth it for me, as it opened my eyes to diverse opportunities and thoroughly prepared me to seize them.

What did you aim to achieve from the Full-Time MBA at Imperial College Business School? 

In essence, my MBA aspirations were a blend of professional evolution, cross-cultural enrichment, leadership refinement, and the cultivation of self-assurance. 

1. Industry transition to technology: a primary objective was to pivot my career towards a more technology-centric industry. I aspired to leverage the interdisciplinary knowledge and innovative thinking gained during the Imperial MBA programme to transition into a dynamic and technology-driven position. 

2. Cultural diversity and global perspectives: the diverse and international nature of the Imperial MBA cohort presents an invaluable opportunity to immerse myself into cultures and different perspectives.  

3. Leadership enhancement: the goal was to emerge from the programme equipped with the strategic vision and interpersonal skills needed to lead and inspire teams in my future role. 

4. Boost self- confidence: Strengthening my self-confidence is a personal development goal that was tied to my MBA journey by navigating through the challenges of the programme, engaging in meaningful discussions, and taking on leadership roles. This increased self-confidence will undoubtedly contribute to my professional growth and effectiveness as a leader. 

Imperial College Business is more than an academic institution; I saw first-hand that it prioritised diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment. 

 

Did you have any hesitations before applying? If so, what is your advice to prospective applicants? 

I did not hesitate in applying to my Full-Time MBA at Imperial College Business School. I had the opportunity to be at Imperial´s Woman Day celebration prior to my application. The dean and admission centre's warm invitation left me inspired, fostering empowerment and motivation for a new venture.  

The inclusive and supportive atmosphere encouraged me to embrace challenges and possibilities, instilling confidence. This encounter revealed Imperial College Business School as more than an academic institution; I saw first-hand that it prioritised diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment. Motivated and assured, I applied for the fast-track admission. I applied in one of the last rounds and this made me very nervous, so my advice to myself would be to apply earlier.  

Imperial’s MBA played a pivotal role in shaping my business leadership skills. Engaging in practical classes, such as negotiation, equipped me to confront challenges within the classroom, providing valuable preparation for real-world situations.

 

Why did you choose Imperial College Business School? 

The decision to pursue my MBA at Imperial College Business School was aligned with my professional aspirations and personal preferences. 

1. Small Yet Diverse Cohort: One of the key factors that drew me to Imperial College Business School was the intentional emphasis on maintaining a small yet diverse cohort. This unique approach ensures a more personalised and immersive experience, allowing me not only to interact closely with each of my peers but also to foster meaningful connections across various backgrounds, cultures, and industries. 

2. Technology Immersion at a top University: Imperial College London being one of the most technology driven universities in the world is a compelling aspect that deeply resonated with my career goals. The prospect of immersing myself in an institution renowned for cutting-edge research, technological advancements, and innovation aligns seamlessly with my ambition to transition into a more technology-driven sector. The academic rigor and technological resources at my disposal undoubtedly provide a unique and enriching learning experience. 

3. London: My Favourite City. Another pivotal factor in my decision-making process was the allure of studying in London, a city that holds a special place in my heart. Beyond its vibrant cultural scene and historical significance, London stands as a global hub for business and technology. Choosing Imperial College Business School allows me to not only reside in my favourite city but also leverage its dynamic ecosystem for networking, internships, and exposure to global business dynamics. 

What was your favourite memory of studying the Full-Time MBA? 

A standout memory from my MBA is the business trip to Copenhagen, a remarkable experience witnessing the organised and developed facets of the country. The efficient systems and advanced infrastructure in contrast to my Latin American background were truly eye-opening, offering valuable insights into global business practices. This trip not only provided enriching professional exposure but also served as a unique opportunity to bond with my cohort outside the classroom. 

Imperial’s Full-Time MBA was instrumental in accelerating my career, enabling me to navigate this transition successfully. It not only broadened my perspectives but also equipped me with the skills needed for the challenges of a new industry and location.

What clubs and societies did you join, outside of the class-room? 

I was president of the Latin American Business Club and affiliated to de TMT Club. I was also part of the MBAT team. 

How did the Full-Time MBA help your leadership skills? 

The MBA played a pivotal role in shaping my business leadership skills. Engaging in practical classes, such as negotiation, equipped me to confront challenges within the classroom, providing valuable preparation for real-world situations. Additionally, leading the Latin Club further contributed to my leadership abilities. 

The programme truly lived up to its reputation of focusing on innovation, business, and technology. The Design Thinking class, which immersed us in solving unsolved problems, exemplified this commitment. 

Also, the multicultural and professionally diverse environment, helped to shape my ability to approach problems from varied perspectives. This not only enables me to explore diverse solutions but also deepens my understanding of others' mindsets, allowing me to prioritise what is important to them. 

How has your career developed since graduating? 

After graduating, I achieved a significant career pivot by joining the launching team in a leadership position of DiDi, a Chinese tech company with a vastly different culture, in Colombia—a country where I had never lived before. The Full-Time MBA was instrumental in accelerating my career, enabling me to navigate this transition successfully. It not only broadened my perspectives but also equipped me with the skills needed for the challenges of a new industry and location. The MBA was worth it for me, as it opened my eyes to diverse opportunities and thoroughly prepared me to seize them. 

What advice would you give to prospective applicants? 

My advice to prospective applicants is to deeply understand why pursuing an MBA is important for their personal and professional growth. However, equally important is recognising how their unique experiences and perspectives will contribute to the cohort. By considering the positive impact they can bring to the collective learning environment, applicants not only shape their admission work but also boost their confidence throughout. 

Eligible Women in Finance Scholarship programmes: 

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

Related blogs

The Global Mergers & Acquisitions Challenge stands as the world's largest M&A case competition, drawing students from over 120 universities. Sponsored by Blackstone, CVC Capital Partners, Partners Group, and Verdier & Co and organised by the University of Cambridge, it serves as an international stage for students to showcase their M&A strategies.

Sydnesi Capital Partners, a team made up of Imperial College Business School MSc Finance students won first place at the GMA Challenge this month. In the same competition, a team comprised of our Full-Time MBA students was one of only five teams, alongside Sydnesi Capital Partners, that made it to the final out of thousands of competitor teams.

Phases of the competition

Teams of four, including at least one female member, registered for the competition. CVs were submitted during registration and were shared with sponsors for potential recruitment.

• In the intermediary phase, teams launched online, identifying a target firm for merger or acquisition based on exclusive instructions.
• Tasks included building an LBO model, creating an investment memorandum, and presenting a two-minute elevator pitch with an investment rationale.
• The final, held at the Royal Academy in London, featured the top five teams presenting their investment theses to industry experts, including Dr. Mohamed A El-Erian, President of Queens’ College, Cambridge, Ross Hamilton of Partners Group, Luigi Rizzo of Morgan Stanley, Gabrielle Dale of Blackstone, and Jean-Philippe Verdier of Verdier & Co.

Meet our winning MSc Finance team

Our team was called Sydnesi Capital Partners (from Greek: from sundein to bind together) and included:

• Martim Leong (Portuguese)
• José Bragança (Portuguese)
• Juan Buzaglo (Argentinean)
• Kanika Kejriwal (Indian)

Our team motivation

We recognised that the competition provided an excellent platform to demonstrate our proficiency in skills such as financial modelling, presentation building, strategic analysis, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure.

We saw the competition not just as a chance to test our skills, but also as an opportunity to gain recognition for the collective effort and showcase our proficiency in the field. This shared goal and the complementary skills within our team fuelled our motivation to excel in the competition.

Key team roles

In the competition, our team efficiently prepared a financial LBO model, crafted an investment memorandum, developed a concise two-minute elevator pitch, and delivered a comprehensive presentation to the esteemed jury. We strategically allocated tasks based on individual expertise in private equity, M&A, and venture capital. Collaboratively, we discussed and supervised each aspect as a group, recognising the significance of every member's contribution. This collaborative approach was crucial in addressing the time constraints imposed by the competition, completed within a tight two-week timeframe.

Challenges we faced

Syndesi Capital Partners strategically navigated the competition to identify a target for Private Equity acquisition in a limited timeframe. Focusing on industries with sustainable trends, we homed in on Waste Management and then the Metal Recycling sector. Our meticulous evaluation led us to Befesa, the global leader in steel dust recycling, known for its circular economy practices. The condensed timeframe necessitated a team effort with sharp problem-solving skills and mutual trust, emphasising the importance of a cohesive and efficient approach in overcoming competition challenges.

Meet the Full-Time MBA team, who made the final five

Our team consisted of:

• Amir Harris - ex Private Equity Vice President at Khazanah Nasional Berhad (Malaysia government's sovereign wealth fund)
• Brittany Wu - ex Private Equity Associate at SilkRoad Property Partners (Hong Kong and Shanghai)
• Marco Wai- ex Macro Sales Trader (FX & Rates) at HSBC (Hong Kong and London)
• Vivian Wijaya - ex Investment Banker at BNP Paribas (Indonesia)

What does the new class look like?  

Fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment is one of Imperial’s key priorities and is reflected in the melting pot of backgrounds and nationalities that make up the newest Specialised Masters’ cohort.   

Having a class that is made up of such varied individuals challenges our students and encourages them to consider alternative ways of thinking. The current cohort, consisting of 491 members hailing from 64 different nationalities, provides an abundance of learning opportunities for all involved. 

MSc Business Analytics  

 
Ranked 6th in the world (QS Business Master’s Rankings 2024, Business Analytics), MSc Business Analytics at Imperial prepares graduates for a future of data-driven and evidence-based decision-making. Although grounded in rigorous technical and quantitative training, our programme also provides opportunities to apply your learning in a practical setting. Electives and projects are sector-focussed, giving students the opportunity to tailor the programme to their interests.  

The programme is available in two study modes, a one-year, full-time programme, studied at our campus in London, or as a part-time, two-year online programme, studied from anywhere in the world.  

This year’s full-time, on-campus programme achieved strong female representation (61% female) and has students that come from a wide variety of academic backgrounds, with the most popular being: Engineering/Technology (24%), Economics (20%), Business/Management (17%), and Science/Medicine (12%). 

The online, part-time programme students have an average age of 29, with many of them choosing to take advantage of the part-time nature of the programme and continue working in their current role where they can apply the learnings to their day-to-day projects. 

Meet an MSc Business Analytics (full-time, on-campus) student 

Meet an MSc Business Analytics (part-time, online) student 

Meet an MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance student 

MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management  

 
MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management is a one-year full-time programme that builds students’ toolkit in the three key areas of innovation, entrepreneurship and management, teaching them how to manage successful outcomes to create, deliver and capture value from innovation. These students are future angel investors, unicorn founders, innovators and creators.  

As well as the varied programme content, there are many opportunities for students to get involved in Imperial’s dynamic enterprising culture including the Imperial Enterprise Lab.  

This year’s cohort of 91 students come from across the world, representing 37 different nationalities with 51% female students. On this programme, the most common degree that students have is in Business/Management (46%), while the other half of the cohort have a rich range of backgrounds. Subjects that students have studied prior include Arts/Humanities (23%), Economics (13%), Engineering/Technology (11%), and Finance/Accounting (10%). 

The nature of the programme means that all students, no matter their previous experience, are united by a true passion for entrepreneurship. 
 

Meet an MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management student 

Meet an MSc International Health Management student 

We’re pleased to welcome the Global Online MBA 2023-25 cohort to Imperial College Business School. The online, part-time MBA programme means that students can become part of the Business School community from anywhere in the world. 

With some of the best technology in education, developed by our Idea Lab, at our disposal, our Global Online MBA delivers an exceptional online learning experience. We are proud to provide our students with the same high-quality teaching that they would receive if they were on-campus.  

Global Online MBA students are impressive to say the least. The part-time format means that our students have taken on the challenge of developing their skillset while usually continuing to work in their demanding full-time roles. This takes hard work and dedication but will result in a great reward and sense of achievement upon graduation. 

What does the new class look like?  

The composition of a class has a great impact on the student experience, so bringing together a mix of cultures, backgrounds, and professional experience is a priority. The 2023-25 cohort of the Global Online MBA is no exception – the 159 students in the class represent 50 nationalities.  

These motivated individuals bring an average of 12 years of work experience spanning across a wide range of industries including Tech, Pharma/BioTech/Healthcare, and Engineering. Students with STEM backgrounds often come to Imperial to take advantage of the close relationship that the Business School has with Imperial College London. Our MBA students often work with the Enterprise Lab to develop their start-up idea, take part in accelerators, and get support on funding. 
 

"The new cohort of the Global Online MBA class is very diverse in terms of professional and educational backgrounds, and also in terms of internationality. Our programme has a cohort-based approach, meaning all the participants move through the core programme together. This provides opportunities for them to learn from one another at every step of the programme which is particularly valuable as they all work in their day jobs alongside the programme and can bring their work experience to class.” Markus Perkmann, Academic Director, Imperial MBA 

 

Meeting in-person on-campus at induction  

While the Global Online MBA programme is predominantly online, we offer students the chance to come to campus and meet each other face-to-face at the start of the programme for induction.  

This year’s Welcome Day saw Imperial take over the Science Museum, located next to our South Kensington campus. With exclusive access to the museum while it was closed, Imperial students explored the space, watched an immersive welcome movie and participated in interactive and experiential introductions to the Business School. 

Meet our Global Online MBA students