Hello, my name is Aleksandra Fit and I am a second-year student of BA (Hons) Business Logistics and Transport Management course at the University of Greenwich.
I've always been interested in logistics and transport. I did a lot of research on Universities in UK and I felt Greenwich was right for me. My research showed me that the University of Greenwich can provide me with the best learning experience and support.
Also, I had a chance to talk to a second year student when I was applying. The number of great opinions from former students was unbelievable.
What do you think makes Greenwich stand out?
First of all, I would like to put a light on the support that all lecturers, teachers, and other University of Greenwich staff members provide to make our life as easy as possible. The University makes sure that we have easy access to all documents needed, all our questions are answered, and we are always aware of changes, policies, and events that are happening on the campus.
These amazing people, who work there, are always making sure that our CV's or Cover Letters are written in the best manner. Thanks to them we can stand out outside of the University.
What are the three best things about your course?
Getting a personal a tutor who helps develop my personal and professional skills that are going to be very important in my future career.
Tutors and guest speakers from the logistics industry meeting these professionals helps me with network building and knowledge. Also, it provides me with a better idea of what will it be like to work in the logistics and transport industry.
Team-working with students from different modules. It also helps with networking and, apart from that, it gives me a better understanding of how various industries are linked. Thanks to that I have the opportunity to experience some aspects of e.g. marketing and sales.
Which module interested you most and why?
During my first year, the subject I was most interested in was Introduction to Logistics and Transport.
I had a chance to find out more about alternative ways of transport and how public transport works or how transport affects climate change.
Some of the things discussed have changed my way of thinking and my perspective on transport.
It has inspired me to consider the shipping method that I choose when ordering something online. It may seem like small things, but all those small bits can change the world we live in for the better.
This year, I am most excited about gaining knowledge from the Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship module. I had only a few classes on this subject so far, but it interested me from the very beginning.
I think it will give me a chance to learn what is needed to become my own boss.
We already went through skill sets, traits of entrepreneurs, and the challenges we might be facing during our career in entrepreneurship. Also, I like the assignment on the course. We must come up with a business idea and pitch the idea in front of the classroom. I have the feeling that it will be very helpful in my future career so fewer things can surprise me.
What's the importance of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) accreditation?
I think that CILT is very important. As we graduate, we will be on our own. We need a network in whatever industry we will decide to work in. CILT provides its members with researchers assistance, access to market and business data, or training.
It is one of the most important steps in the business to do proper research about the market, the Charted Institute of Logistics and Transport can be a big help along the way to success.
How has your course helped develop your passions?
As a student at the University of Greenwich, each year I have to earn points for my Greenwich Employability Passport (GEP). This motivates me to do more outside of lectures and tutorials.
I started attending some of the Big Picture Seminars that the Business School is hosting and they helped with everyday challenges. I managed to develop my time management skills.
Although, lecturers and other students inspired me to try something new. I've decided to take British Sign Language online classes. My course is still ongoing and I have a lot to learn but I believe I can do this, and I am very glad that I've made this step.
How are you finding blended learning?
Because of the current situation, I have been introduced to blended learning for the first time in my life. From today's point of view, I think it is a very easy solution when you get used to the program. I found out that because I do not have to travel to the University daily and I have more time to learn. I think it's also nice to know that my lectures are on my module page all the time, so I can always come back to them when I need to.
Thanks to blended learning, I developed my IT skills and found very useful programs that I had no idea about before. Also, I am more confident to speak in front of the camera.
I've always been very confident to discuss things when I was on-site tutorials. I'm not afraid to talk to people. However, it was the camera that always stressed me out. Now I'm working on it, so I can be more and more active during online group discussions.
What are your plans for the future?
Very soon, I am planning to do a placement year in the logistics and supply chain industry. I want to get as much knowledge as I can from people who are already in the industry.
After graduation, I am planning to become an Air Traffic Controller. I have been passionate about air transport for a very long time now.
But this is not my only plan. I am also planning to start my own business. I believe that I can bring some new ideas to the current market and I will do my best to succeed. It is always a risk to start something new, but I am not afraid to take that risk and go out of my comfort zone. I did it before and I know that amazing things happen when you do so.
What advice would you give to people thinking about applying to Greenwich?
As I mentioned above, I would highly recommend going out of your comfort zone. It is okay to be afraid of new things, but we cannot let fear control us.
I would advise to trust the lectures - they are doing their best to help us. Do not underestimate yourself, it is vital to know your weaknesses. Ask your lecturers or fellow students for advice. Sometimes this can help more than you think.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Please note that the availability of modules (and opportunities offered to, and services for, students) can change over time and things may not necessarily be available from one year to the next. In the case of modules, please always check the 'What will you study' section of the course webpage for the course and entry year you are interested in.
