Andrea Lim
Global Online MBA (2023- 2025)

Studying for an MBA while working full-time initially appeared overwhelming. However, it has proven to be a valuable experience that goes beyond regular education. The Global Online MBA programme at Warwick Business School (WBS) delves deeply into the complexities of company management, offering a comprehensive viewpoint that is applicable both professionally and personally. One of the most important skills I've developed is time management. Balancing coursework, professional responsibilities, and social obligations has taught me how to prioritise and make the most of every opportunity. This MBA is about more than simply learning; it's about applying that knowledge to every aspect of our lives, making us not just better professionals but also higher functioning individuals.

My initial motivation for enrolling in the MBA programme was to expand my knowledge of venture capital and private equity, including evaluating business and financial strategies for startups and companies in which we want to invest. So far, the programme has exceeded my expectations by providing me with valuable insights into the many constraints that firms may encounter. This information has allowed me to ask more specific questions and engage more effectively with potential investment opportunities.

Furthermore, the programme reinforced my desire to not only invest in businesses, but also contribute to their growth and scaling. Each module has been extremely relevant and directly useful to my daily tasks, allowing me to seamlessly integrate academic ideas into my professional life. This practical application ensures that I am constantly contributing value to my organisation and the companies we support.

Balancing work, life, and study is undeniably challenging, especially when starting an MBA programme. Having completed a Master's Degree in Health Administration, I was aware of the time commitment, but the rigour of the MBA's first two modules still surprised me. It was a significant adjustment.

However, I believe in humans' ability to adapt. Adopting a disciplined approach, trusting the process, and managing time wisely have all been critical. Despite the demanding schedule, I manage to carve out personal time for relaxation and self-care. I still enjoy my weekends watching Netflix and maintain a daily exercise routine alongside my professional responsibilities. It’s all about finding that balance, and it's definitely possible. We’ll make it through!