What was your study and/or professional background prior to this programme?
Before joining this programme, I completed my undergraduate studies in Business Analytics and Management. Additionally, I enriched my professional experience with a year-long internship at a wholesale importing company based in Cyprus.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?
I chose the University of Edinburgh Business School due to my admiration for the city, the university's prestigious reputation, and the convenience of having close friends studying there.
About the course
What was it about the degree programme that particularly attracted you?
I was drawn to this program because of its emphasis on current industry practices and its effective mix of programming and theory. This balance ensures that students not only acquire practical skills but also a solid theoretical foundation, which is essential for success in the dynamic field of business analytics.
How many people are on your programme (approx.), and what is the diversity mix like?
Approximately 50 students are enrolled in the program, forming a diverse cohort hailing from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
What does a typical day look like for you on this programme?
A typical day on this program involves attending lectures as scheduled, followed by devoted study sessions to grasp the day's lessons thoroughly. Additionally, I make it a point to visit the gym, which not only helps relieve stress but also rejuvenates my focus by providing a change of scenery.
How much time do you spend in lectures and how much time do you spend studying each week (approx.)?
On average, I allocate approximately 2-5 hours per day for lectures, varying based on the daily schedule. As for study time, I typically dedicate around 10-12 hours per week. However, it's important to note that these study hours can significantly increase when nearing deadlines or exams, as I intensify my efforts to ensure comprehensive preparation.
How feasible do you think it is to work part-time while pursing your Masters?
The feasibility of working part-time while pursuing a Master’s degree can vary from person to person and depend on the nature of the job. In my personal opinion, prioritising complete focus on one's degree often yields the best results, ensuring you can extract the maximum benefit from the program and achieve the desired grades.
What have been the differences between the teaching & learning methods in Scotland compared with your home country?
The key difference is the significant emphasis on self-learning. In Scotland, there's a greater expectation for students to be self-reliant, conduct independent research, and manage their time effectively, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
What course have you enjoyed the most so far and why?
The course that I've enjoyed the most thus far is Predictive Analytics and Modelling of Data. Despite initially feeling overwhelmed by the new information, I found it incredibly rewarding to delve into the workings of various machine learning models and apply them in practice. Witnessing the significant improvements, they can bring to productivity and understanding has been truly enlightening.
Student experience
Have you been involved with any industry activities so far (e.g., company visits, guest speakers, student development, professional development sessions)?
I'm currently working towards the completion of the Edinburgh Award in Global Employability, which entails honing three specific skills of my choice through group workshops and coaching meetings. This has been a fun and beneficial way to enhance my professional development.
Is there a specific experience you’ve had so far on the programme that stands out?
One standout experience on the program has been the poster presentation during our prescriptive analytics course. This event provided a unique platform to showcase the work and ideas of all student projects in an informal setting, making it highly engaging. Furthermore, receiving valuable feedback from our lecturer greatly boosted our confidence regarding the assignment.
Have you joined any clubs or societies? What do you like to do outside of your studies? How do you spend your weekends?
While I haven't joined any clubs or societies, I enjoy spending my free time by socialising with friends and going to the gym or going to concerts. During weekends, I’m either watching football or going out for some food or drinks.
Have you done any travel to other parts of Scotland or the UK since arriving in Edinburgh?
I had the wonderful opportunity to explore other parts of Scotland, including the Scottish Highlands, particularly the Isle of Skye. In October, I embarked on this journey with some of my course mates, and it was truly an incredible experience. Witnessing the breathtaking landscapes and creating cherished memories made it an unforgettable trip.
What kind of accommodation are you living in and why did you choose that option?
I'm actually living in a private accommodation that's super close to the Business School, and it's all thanks to a bit of luck! My best friend, who's now my flatmate, happened to know the previous tenants, and that connection really came through for us as we ended up getting this place once they moved out.
How did you go about making friends and building a community in Edinburgh?
While I did have the advantage of pre-existing connections in the city, forming new friendships during the program was a smooth and natural process. The collaborative aspect of our group assignments, combined with the shared experience of being in the same academic journey, offered a wonderful opportunity for us to develop stronger bonds.
Looking ahead
What are you hoping to do after you graduate from this programme?
Upon graduating from this programme, my goal is to secure a position as an analyst or consultant within a UK-based company. This choice not only aligns with my career aspirations but also provides an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience working in a foreign country.
Do you have any tips for people considering applying to the Business School?
Certainly! For those contemplating an application to the Business School, my advice would be to stay true to yourself. Organisation is key, given the competitiveness of the program, so aim for the highest grades possible. Moreover, convey your genuine and sincere passion for the course in your application; authenticity goes a long way in making a compelling case for your candidacy.