Why Greenwich?
I chose to pursue a BA (Hons) in International Business at the University of Greenwich for several compelling reasons. With a longstanding interest in business stemming from my family's entrepreneurial background and personal experiences, I sought a programme that combined rigorous theoretical learning with practical application. The programme stood out to me because it offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with global perspectives and skills vital for navigating today's business world.
Greenwich's reputation and it's strong ties to industry through their enterprise team - resonated well with my career aspirations. The opportunity to engage with real-world challenges and industry experts aligns perfectly with my goal of making a tangible impact in business and sustainability.
The campus played a significant role in my decision as well. Its historic charm combined with modern facilities provides an inspiring environment where I can immerse myself fully in my studies and personal growth during these important years of my life.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day at university begins with me arriving early on campus, checking my university email for any updates from professors or upcoming events. On days when I have lectures, I start with engaging sessions that cover a wide range of topics related to my course. After lectures, I usually have tutorials where small groups of students discuss and apply what we've learned in practical tasks. In between classes, I often take a stroll around campus, namely to the Dreadnought Building, to stay updated on campus activities and grab lunch.
Beyond academia, my university life involves various roles such as being the Student Representative for my programme and the Director of Finance at Enactus (a student society). I ensure I am responsive to any tasks or updates related to these roles, such as coordinating with professors on student feedback and assisting peers with academic queries or concerns. Within Enactus, I oversee financial matters and contribute to managing the society's activities, including meetings and media coordination.
In the evenings, I check if there are any workshops organised by the Generator (enterprise hub). If there's an event scheduled, you'll find me there, enhancing my business development skills and engaging with industry professionals. Throughout the day, I prioritise updating my LinkedIn profile with key activities and milestones, reflecting my ongoing growth and contributions to the university community.
A typical day at Greenwich is a blend of academic learning, practical application, and active involvement in extracurricular activities. It's a fulfilling experience where effective time management is crucial in balancing coursework, entrepreneurial endeavours, and university commitments.
Social scene at Greenwich...
The social environment at the University of Greenwich is vibrant and inclusive, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds. Global Greenwich plays a pivotal role, constantly bringing exciting cultural events to campus that celebrate diversity and promote understanding among students. From engaging in indoor games and utilising the campus gym to socialising at various cafes and the Lower Deck club, there are ample opportunities for students to connect and unwind. The campus's picturesque location along the Thames River adds to the charm, providing stunning views and peaceful spots for relaxation. Overall, Greenwich offers a dynamic social atmosphere where students can both thrive academically and enjoy a diverse and welcoming community.
Extracurricular activities and the university experience...
I am actively involved in various extracurricular activities and student organisations at the University of Greenwich. As the Director of Finance at Enactus Greenwich, I oversee the society's financial management and am a key member of the committee. We collaborate on diverse social projects, holding regular meetings to plan and execute initiatives aimed at creating positive community impact.
Beyond Enactus, I participate in a range of activities facilitated by the Business School and Generator. This includes long-term engagements like the Enterprise Challenge, which spans several months, as well as workshops, hackathons (#GreHacks), and startup events (Grestart). Additionally, I'm developing my startup venture, leveraging opportunities I discover through proactive use of my university Outlook email and staying informed about ongoing activities.
Moreover, I recently had the opportunity to share my experiences on a podcast with the Business School, where I discussed various aspects of student life and about my course. These extracurricular involvements significantly enhance my university experience by providing practical insights, fostering networking opportunities, and allowing me to continually learn and contribute to the community.
Most rewarding experience?
One of the most rewarding experiences at the University of Greenwich has been winning a competition that led to an offer to work as a consultant with a real company like Facework Group (a social enterprise dedicated to transforming the workplace through skills training and collaborative workspaces). I participated in an intense hackathon event organised by Generator, where my team emerged victorious. Winning this competition opened doors for me to work directly with Facework as a consultant, an opportunity I had never expected to explore while still studying.
Additionally, through another significant achievement, I had the privilege to further develop my consultancy skills during the AWS GreHacks workshop. Our approach earned us the "Most Viable Idea" award, and we were invited to present our solutions at AWS's prestigious Holborn office. This opportunity allowed me to visit their office, interact with their team, and explore potential career paths within such a renowned company.
Future plans?
My career aspirations revolve around becoming a leader in management consulting, with a strong emphasis on business and entrepreneurship. The university has played a crucial role in preparing me for this path through its educational framework and hands-on learning opportunities.
One of the standout experiences in consultancy has been the Global Integrative Project 2. This module immersed us in real-world consulting scenarios, where we addressed business challenges and developed strategic solutions for Electrosonic company. This practical approach not only sharpened my consulting skills but also grounded them in the theoretical knowledge gained from our coursework, directly aligning with my career goals.
My entrepreneurial journey has been greatly enriched by the Generator. Here, I've nurtured two start-up ideas and learned the intricacies of creating and validating business concepts through events like GreStart. During summer breaks, participating in Generator's summer acceleration programmes further propelled my entrepreneurial ventures. Also, competing in the Enterprise Challenge with one of my start-ups propelled me to the semi-finals, reinforcing my growth as an entrepreneur.
The support and resources provided by the both the Business School and Generator have been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory. They have equipped me with the practical skills, industry insights, and networking opportunities essential for pursuing my aspirations in consulting and entrepreneurship.
Would you do anything differently?
If I could restart my university journey, I would reflect on my positive experiences and consider enhancing my journey even further. Firstly, I would prioritise seeking mentors early on, as having guidance from someone within or associated with the university who shares my interests could simplify my path and accelerate my growth. Learning from those who have already navigated similar journeys could provide invaluable insights and streamline my efforts.
Additionally, I would aim to engage more actively in freshman events and activities right from the start. Building a broader network and forming connections with fellow students earlier in my university life would have enriched my experience and potentially led to lasting friendships and collaborations throughout my time at Greenwich.
Another adjustment would be to participate in a summer school abroad during my first year. Although I eventually took part in one during my second year, starting earlier would have allowed me to explore different academic environments sooner and broaden my international perspective earlier in my university career.
Overall, while I am satisfied with my journey thus far, these adjustments would have made my experience even more fulfilling and diverse from the outset.
Advice for new students?
My advice to incoming students is to embrace every opportunity that comes your way and take calculated risks to explore and learn. The first year of university offers ample time to experiment, make mistakes, and discover your path. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone, whether it’s engaging deeply with your studies, participating in extracurricular activities, or pursuing internships and placements. Remember, "your network is your net worth". Building relationships early on, whether through networking events, industry conferences, or mentorship programs, can significantly enhance your university experience and future career prospects.
If your course allows, consider taking advantage of opportunities like summer schools abroad, applying for early placement years, or seeking internships from your first year onwards. Securing an internship during my first year proved advantageous, as I avoided the intense competition that arises later in the academic journey.
Utilise Outlook and other university platforms diligently; they are treasure troves of opportunity, from internships and workshops to networking events and academic resources. Establishing a routine of checking university emails and social media handles can keep you informed about everything happening on campus and beyond.
Seeking mentorship early on can be transformative. Connecting with someone who has walked a similar path can provide invaluable guidance, simplify decision-making, and accelerate your personal and professional growth.
Above all, prioritise your subjects in the first year. The foundational knowledge gained during this time sets the stage for more advanced modules in subsequent years. Understanding the basics thoroughly can make a significant difference in your academic journey. Make time to explore interests, connect with fellow students, and immerse yourself in campus activities, competitions, and societies. Whether it’s joining a sports club, participating in cultural events, or getting involved with the Generator at the Business School, actively engaging with your university community enhances your overall experience.
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 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. You can find an index of all our subject areas, within which you will find the individual course pages, at: https://www.gre.ac.uk/subjects
