Why did you choose Aston University?
I chose to study an MBA at Aston University because it had been about 10 years since I’d done my last postgraduate study, and I was at a point in my career when I really wanted to kick-on to the next level. So I needed to go back and refresh some skills and learn what the latest learnings were around leadership and business so I could progress in my job.
I managed whilst I was on the course to be promoted into a more strategic level role, and then since leaving Aston University I’ve then subsequently gone on to get an even higher level strategic role.
What did you enjoy most about your MBA?
The things that I learnt on the course I’ve been able to directly apply to my day-to-day job. I’ve enjoyed many of the modules on the course and I think strategy was something that I obviously enjoyed because that’s my calling, but actually the module that I enjoyed the most was finance, which is a surprise because it’s certainly not one of my strengths. But just the way that the module was delivered it was really really engaging, it was a business simulation, it really brought it to life and you could understand the impact of the decisions you were making.
The Aston Edge was another highlight for me because it is something that is very unique to Aston. It has got a heavy focus on self-improvement and self-reflection, but also there was a major emphasis on learning about contemporary issues such as AI, sustainability and leading in volatile environments.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of studying an MBA?
My biggest piece of advice is that you’ve got to be prepared that it is a lot of work, but I don’t think that’s necessarily a bad thing. You are going to be learning a huge amount of new skills in a very short period of time to really accelerate your learning, and really if it’s not difficult it’s probably not worth doing.
Make the most of the networking opportunities, you are going to be on this course with people from all sorts of different backgrounds, so it’s really a massive opportunity to learn from them.
It doesn’t stop when you finish the course either, the Aston Alumni Club is another great opportunity to stay in contact with those that you studied with on the course, but also meet other former Aston University students and students that are on the course currently.