What was your study and/or professional background prior to this programme?
I completed by undergraduate degree in BSc Economics, Mathematics and Statistics from CHRIST University, India in May 2023 and directly joined the MSc Business Analytics program at the University of Edinburgh for my higher studies.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?
I completed by undergraduate degree in BSc Economics, Mathematics and Statistics from CHRIST University, India in May 2023 and directly joined the MSc Business Analytics program at the University of Edinburgh for my higher studies. There were numerous factors that attracted me to the University. The outstanding profiles of the professors which perfectly aligned with what I expected out of this course, scholarships provided by the business school, Course modules which comprehensively introduced most important concepts as well as the location of the University. Edinburgh, being a culturally rich region simultaneously allows you to grow academically as well as enjoy art, history, food, culture and diversity.
About the programme
What was it about the degree programme that particularly attracted you?
As per my perspective, the modules offered by the programme closely aligns with what the industry expects out of a graduate from the course. The core courses in semester 1, I believe lays proper foundation followed by a well-diversified pool of optional courses in semester 2. In addition to that, I was most fascinated by the amount of research as well as the experience of the faculties which would definitely contribute to the quality of education.
How many people are on your programme (approx.), and what is the diversity mix like?
My programme cohort consists of approximately 50 students from different parts of the world. I also believe that having such numbers within a cohort will enable better collaboration and communication within the class as well as receive individual feedback from professors. The class is really diverse from almost 10 different nationalities with a background from a wide range of sectors across multiple age groups. It also allows a cross-cultural learning space and team building environment to exchange ideas and perspectives.
What does a typical day look like for you on this programme?
A Typical day for the program would be a blend of lecture hours and lab sessions in general, when considering semester 1 and 2. In semester 1, with 4 core courses to attend, most classes began at 9am or 10 am depending upon the day and usually continuous till 3pm or 4pm with 1 to 2 hour gap between lectures. However, in 2nd semester, the classes depend upon the optional courses chosen. In addition to these lectures and labs, numerous group discussions on projects, and assignments happen as well according to the availability of the team members.
How much time do you spend in lectures and how much time do you spend studying each week (approx.)?
In general, one would have to spend under 15 hours approximately on lectures and lab sessions in a week. All the course demands self-study based on the course materials provided in the form of slides and reference text books which would enable better understanding of the concepts. I spend almost 20 hours per week for studying and utilise rest of my time for assignments as well as leisure activities.
How feasible do you think it is to work part-time while pursing your Masters?
I believe that when time is managed rightly, part-time can easily go hand in hand with the academics. I personally have been working as a part-time employee since September. Currently I hold part time positions at 2 entities, one within the university as a Social Media Ambassador as well as Postgraduate Student Ambassador and one outside the University at a fast food restaurant. I believe that these would also be a learning opportunity to absorb team work, enhance your skills as well as adapt to different environments.
What have been the differences between the teaching & learning methods in Scotland compared with your home country?
The teaching style is indeed different between the methods followed in Scotland and my country, India. I feel that a lot of independent learning is involved in educational tradition of Scotland with a freedom of flexibility in the topics one wants to go deeper in. I also feel that the method of teaching is most focused on the application of the concepts, instead of it being the other way around.
What course have you enjoyed the most so far and why?
So far, as I am almost completing week 1 of semester 2, I really enjoyed the Python course of Semester 1 as it allowed me to discover my interest by working with different types of data. The projects were really diverse ranging from quantitative analysis, to text mining as well as using APIs. Since these projects mostly were flexi bile towards the data to choose, it allowed me to explore various sectors such as financial, marketing etc which ultimately helped me find the area which I would want to pursue as a career.
Student experience
Have you been involved with any industry activities so far (e.g.company visits, guest speakers, student development, professional development sessions)?
Every week, there is something happening at the Business School. Therefore, there were lots of amazing opportunities including talks by major multi-national corporations like Deloitte, Bloomberg, Moody’s as well as talks by experts of the industry in consulting, academia and so on. I am also really looking forward to the career and employability expo at the end of January as well as the upcoming London Trek for my cohort in May.
Is there a specific experience you’ve had so far on the programme that stands out?
The social events conducted in the cohort really stands out to me as it creates an environment of cultural exchange as well as create a sense of community and belongingness. Our program had a potluck event where everyone bought the food of their own culture, had mid-term dinner as well as an informal Secret-Santa gift exchange during Christmas. I believe that these small experiences also makes this journey a lot more beautiful.
Have you joined any clubs or societies? What do you like to do outside of your studies? How do you spend your weekends?
I try to explore Edinburgh as much as I can, while also engaging myself in networking and working as a part time employee. Even though it is important to study and improve your skills, I also believe that enjoying the rich culture and diversity of Edinburgh is a mind-blowing experience that one should never miss out on!
What kind of accommodation are you living in and why did you choose that option?
I stay at a twin room accommodation offered by the University, Pentland House. I chose the option because it is financially viable as well as safe and well supported by ResLife employees. I believe that having such support is crucial especially for an international student as it creates a safe space during a major change or transition in life.
How did you go about making friends and building a community in Edinburgh?
There are numerous opportunities for students to find like-minded people both within and outside the University. Student association of the University is a very active and vibrant platform to engage yourself in. Moreover, a huge array of events take place within the university that will definitely help you build a community around you which would make your stay in Edinburgh wholesome and memorable.
Looking ahead
What are you hoping to do after you graduate from this programme?
I am hoping to be a part of a Graduate program as soon as I graduate from the University in the Data field of the Financial Sector.
Do you have any tips for people considering applying to the Business School?
I would honestly suggest everyone to be honest and sincere in their applications and not to hold back while doing the same. There is nothing such as a silly experience or skills that one may possess, hence, it is always better to make sure that they are portrayed in the Statement of purpose. Networking with students would also be a great way to know about the University life better as well as the opportunities that lie within. All I can ultimately say, is believe in yourself and be confident throughout the application process.