Arshi Ahmed

Arshi Ahmed currently works as Group Campaign Communications Manager at BAE Systems plc, leveraging her specialised MBA in marketing from Aston University to excel in the competitive field of campaign communications.

Choosing Aston Business School for an MBA

Arshi Ahmed's decision to pursue an MBA at Aston University was driven by several compelling factors. She emphasised the "esteemed reputation of Aston Business School", noting its "prestigious 'triple-crown' accreditation, which places it among the top 1% of business schools globally".

Arshi highlighted the affordability and high rankings of the programme as key influences on her choice, along with the positive feedback from family members who had brilliant experiences at Aston University. Reflecting on her motivations, Arshi shared:

As an experienced professional with eight years in the industry, I was keen to enhance my leadership abilities and strengthen my business acumen."

The structure of Aston Business School's MBA programme, with its emphasis on entrepreneurial drive, particularly appealed to her. "The course fee is very reasonable compared to other business schools in the UK, making it a financially viable option", she added.

Furthermore, Arshi was honored to receive the prestigious Dean’s Scholarship, which reinforced her decision to join Aston Business School. She also valued the vast network accessible through the MBA cohort, which provided "invaluable opportunities to interact with, exchange ideas, and learn from leading business leaders and influencers".

Applied learning environment

Arshi found great value in the well-organised and diverse opportunities offered by Aston University's MBA programme. She appreciated the blend of theoretical learning and practical experiences that made the coursework engaging and relevant.

One of the highlights of the programme was working on exciting projects that involved tackling real-world business challenges."

This hands-on approach enriched her learning experience, allowing her to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios.

The collaborative environment at Aston University also stood out to Arshi. "Working alongside people from diverse backgrounds was another aspect I particularly enjoyed", she noted. The exchange of ideas and perspectives enhanced her understanding of global business practices. The interactive nature of the course encouraged active participation and discussions, further enriching her academic journey.

A standout experience for Arshi was the exchange trip to Toulouse, France. As an aviation enthusiast, visiting the Airbus manufacturing sites was particularly thrilling. "It offered a unique glimpse into the aviation industry and its operations", she recalled.

Overall, the MBA course at Aston University was a comprehensive and enriching experience that equipped me with essential skills and broadened my professional network."

Outside of the classroom

Arshi actively participated in extracurricular activities during her time at Aston University. She served as a Student Ambassador, representing the University and engaging with prospective students, which enhanced her leadership and communication skills.

She was also an active member of several societies, including the Marketing Society, Consulting Society, and the Islamic and Asian Society. Arshi added:

These memberships provided me with opportunities to network, develop new skills, and engage in diverse cultural and professional activities."

Internship opportunities

Arshi undertook a valuable 3-month internship with Aston Vision Sciences, an ophthalmologic start-up. During this internship, she focused on developing a comprehensive marketing proposal for the launch of their new eye disease diagnostic device in the UK. This project became the basis for her 12,000-word dissertation, allowing her to integrate classroom learning with practical application.

The internship was a fantastic experience as it provided me with real-world insights into strategic marketing and product launch processes within the healthcare industry."

Advice for prospective students

Arshi's enthusiasm for the Aston University MBA programme was evident as she extended encouragement to prospective students. She urged:

To any student considering studying my course at Aston University, I would urge you to seize every opportunity available.

Aston [University] offers a wealth of resources and a diverse community that fosters both academic excellence and personal growth.

Arshi concluded:

Engage fully with the University's facilities, faculty and extracurricular activities. Embrace the chance to meet and learn from people beyond your immediate cohort. This is your time to give your all, setting a solid foundation for a successful future."