How did WBS CareersPlus and Employer Relations support you during your Full-time MBA?

There are two important pillars to the support CareersPlus and Employer Relations provided to me.

First is the vast number of activities and employer events they put on, from tech fests to company visits, exposing students to all these possibilities. For instance, I’ve never worked in the energy sector, but I was able to attend an energy sector event, which showed me that I could pivot if I wanted to; at the end of the day, your skills are always transferable.  You come face-to-face with all sorts of industries and sectors, gaining real exposure.

I was lucky enough to attend when Team Amex visited campus, advertising their summer internships. WBS were about to launch their Capstone Internships module, and so I applied and was successful! That summer internship turned into a full-time job offer. I’ve been part of this company for over a year now and I love it. Looking back, I am happy that the dots connected this way.

I also gained support on more practical careers elements like improving my CV and practicing for interview. When I was interviewing for American Express, my first interview went well, but I was then invited to interview with a more senior member of staff, which felt more intimidating. I was really grateful that I could turn to my Careers Coach and get some practical tips and encouragement.

What’s changed for your career-wise since completing your MBA?

My background is in consulting, but I felt like I had reached a ceiling at my previous company, and was struggling to make the move from project manager or lead, to management-level.

I needed to get out of my comfort zone, so I turned to the Full-time MBA to help me make a change and gained a core skillset that has set me up with the skills to successfully navigate that jump.

I’m now working as Manager – Strategic Planning at American Express – a pivot in both industry and role. Had I not completed this MBA, I wouldn’t be confident making the strategic calls and speaking up when I think something should change. Without the MBA, I don’t think I would be doing the kind of work I am doing now.

What’s your advice to future Full-time MBAs?

Soak in the experience. Don’t rush in a look for jobs as soon as you land in the UK, absorb the MBA and truly participate in all the opportunities for interaction you have. You’ll never find this time again when you’re back at work.

Take advantage of your cohort; you have so many professionals coming from all sorts of backgrounds, but the beauty of it is that you are not at work. So practice putting yourself out there and building confidence with them.