Marc Richly

Read Marc's story

Why did you decide to study an MSc Business Analytics (online, part-time) at Imperial College Business School? 

Among all the business master’s I could do (marketing, finance, management etc), I was convinced that this programme would prepare me best for the future of the business world. I was also drawn by the opportunity to learn valuable new skills in coding. With Imperial having such a great reputation in science and math-based subjects, I also expected the MSc Business Analytics to be more maths focussed than at other universities. I saw this as a clear advantage, as I expect to go deeper in analytics, to really master it, compared to similar programmes. 

What aspects of the programme do you most enjoy the most? 

This Master’s is about the intersection of business, statistics, and coding. Of the three, coding is the most fun and also offers the steepest learning curve for me! On the programme, we mainly work with three languages (Python, R, and SQL), while in the first term I have worked the most with Python and a little with R. It is very satisfying to be able to run your own programmes and I am excited for the next advanced modules in areas such as Machine Learning! 

Do you hold a student leadership position? 

At the beginning of the year, I was elected Academic Leader, part of the Student-Staff Committee (SSC), for my programme. This means I am at the interface between students and the Business School. I like this position as I am in close contact with staff and professors and also get the chance to work closely with Academic Leaders from the other programmes. 

How did the services from Careers help you secure employment/in your professional development? 

The Careers service has surprised me in its level of professionalism. They have an expert for all fields – Consulting, TMT, FMCG etc. and offer many workshops, one-on-one mock interviews and mock assessment centres. An interesting fact that I recently learned is that Imperial alumni also get lifelong career support from Imperial, which I think will be really beneficial as I progress through my career. 

"An interesting fact that I recently learned is that Imperial alumni also get lifelong career support from Imperial, which I think will be really beneficial as I progress through my career."

How do you find using the programme’s purpose-built learning platform, The Hub? 

A common misconception is that online learning only happens via Zoom. This is luckily not true on this Master’s, as we have access to a very well-designed platform with all the study material – The Hub. Most of our time and most of our learning happens there, it feels effective and well structured. Compared to sitting in large lecture halls as in my undergraduate, I find my study time now to be far more efficient. 

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about applying for the programme? 

If you find yourself hesitating – reach out to the student ambassadors who are happy to answer your questions! They can provide you with some more input on what it’s like to study at Imperial or any other questions you might have. Imperial has a great reputation, and with the MSc Business Analytics (online, part-time), you will learn essential skills that make you ready for the future business world. Don’t overthink it, apply!