9 November 2018
I am halfway through semester one of the International Business and Emerging Markets programme. I have learnt that one of the amazing things about studying a postgraduate degree here is the rich international environment and the diverse range of opportunities that students have access to.
At the Business School, your classmates come from all over the world; on my course, from over 18 countries. Given our different backgrounds and experiences, I have found that we all have our own reasons for pursuing a Masters. For me personally, finding a School that would enhance my professional development internationally was fundamental.
I decided to study at the University of Edinburgh based on the uniqueness of the Emerging Markets programme, and Edinburgh's international recognition as a leading university. I started the programme with high expectations, and I have greatly enjoyed my return to academia after four years of working abroad.
The Business School provides great resources for its Masters' students, and it has been the School’s modern facilities and networking opportunities that I would highlight about the experience so far.
Business School Facilities
I have been very impressed with the Business School’s exclusive facilities for postgraduate students. The facilities are modern and there is a great variety of space to study in—both alone and as a group. Home to students from 14 postgraduate programmes, I’ve found the School to be an ideal size with a nice community feel. Everyone is friendly and approachable, and you will find that the faces become increasingly familiar as the semester passes.
The Hub
Personally, one of my favourite places to study is 'The Hub' which is the Business School’s own study area and library hosting a wide range of business books. I’ve found this quiet space to be a great resource especially when exploring other business interests. Additionally, we have access to private meeting rooms equipped with flat screen monitors and video conference capabilities. Such facilities have been invaluable for group assignments, especially conference calls with my group’s Colombian client, Papelcard, as part of our International Business Projects course.
Venturing out of the Business School, the is also a nice place to study. With the backdrop of the Meadows, study time is very enjoyable in the library on a nice Autumn morning.
Networking opportunities
Another part of the Masters experience are the networking opportunities that the University provides. The Business School and wider University host interesting and renowned speakers on a regular basis. Here you can network with industry professionals and students from different faculties, as well as learn more about your own specific issues and interests. Despite the busy semester, I have been able to enjoy evening guest talks relevant to Emerging Markets and I've attended talks on the “China Superpower” and “The Rise of Huawei,” delivered by experts in the field.
Also within my programme, there have been many fun occasions to connect with classmates. We are a diverse group of people, and it has been a unique opportunity to get to know and work with students from so many different cultures.
I am excited to see what the rest of the year holds for us!
Fumihiko, MSc International Business and Emerging Markets