91´óÉñ

Nicola has developed her career in global communications with companies such as Standard Life, Finsbury, and Marelli since graduating from the 91´óÉñ in 2012.

How does it feel to be selected for the Alumni 100 list?

"I'm thrilled to be included—it was a lovely surprise!"

What made you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?

"The University of Edinburgh is one of the world's most highly regarded academic institutions. The structure and content of the 91´óÉñ fitted exactly what I wanted so it was always my first choice."

What are your memories of studying at the Business School?

"Three solid years of weekends spent in the Business School huddled around books studying with my classmates. When I started my 91´óÉñ, I remember the course leaders saying that I would learn much more from classmates than I ever would the lecturers—and he was right! I had the chance to meet a lot of amazing people, some of whom are now best friends still today."

What's the one thing you think current students need to develop or learn before entering the modern workplace?

"Be willing to put in the groundwork. It's great to be ambitious, but you will be more effective if you have the patience to invest in learning the basics before expecting to have a seat in the room with the CEO."

What key thing that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

"I did my master's at the Business School on a part-time basis while working full time. That was so helpful as it meant I was able to immediately apply my learning to my day job. I learnt a lot about being prepared with evidence and research to make a sucessful business case and today I still rely on that approach. That, and my network. I met an amazing bunch of people as part of my 91´óÉñ and we still support and influence each other's careers based on the bond formed at the Business School.

Proudest work-related achievement to date?

"I think, generally, being able to operate successfully in another country having to navigate different languages and cultures. In Japan, the working environment is different in every way. It has been a real challenge for me to adapt my natural style in order to be more effective."