Elena Martens
MSc Management (2019 – 2020)

I began my academic journey studying Psychology at University College London. After deciding to further focus on Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources, I came to Warwick Business School to study MSc Management. I specifically chose this degree, as opposed to a specialised course in Human Resource Management, as I wanted to gain a holistic understanding of the business world. The MSc Management course at WBS initially offers a broad overview and later allows you to specialise through elective modules. Through electives such as Marketing Analytics and Digital Marketing Technology and Management I have found another business field in which my psychological research background is highly applicable and relevant. I’m grateful for having made these choices, as I have since developed a passion for Marketing and decided to change my professional pursuit. 

What first attracted you to WBS, why did you choose to study here? 

Although I loved University College London, I quickly realised I was not the biggest fan of the city. I had always hoped to enjoy a typical campus lifestyle at some point in time. Whilst I was in London, many of my friends studied at the University of Warwick. During my visits I fell in love with the countryside, the campus and, most importantly, Warwick Business School.  

What would you say are the key things that sets WBS apart? 

I think what sets WBS apart from other business schools the most, is the fact that it is university based. This played an important part in my decision process. I knew that it would offer an integrated university experience and I definitely was not wrong. Many of the other business schools I had considered worked independently from other institutions, but considering that business itself does not work independently, I knew that an immersive Masters experience would be more rewarding. During my time at WBS, I have not only profited from the excellent teaching and curriculum, but the many events, talks and summits held at the university itself. The insights I have gathered there have helped me develop a stronger sense of direction and opinion, both in my academic work and my professional career.  

What is the best thing about your course so far?  

The events and trips organised by the MSc programme team at WBS have made my MSc experience and course truly unique. The university offers a variety of excursions, company visits and trips to deepen the students’ managerial understanding. The trips are embedded into the course or can be attended voluntarily. These include visits to the Ricoh Arena, Jaguar Land Rover, Amazon and a study trip to one of four international business schools across the globe. WBS has a strong practical focus and uses these experiences to accelerate and consolidate our learning and understanding.   

What is your favourite module? What do you cover on this module? 

My favourite module has been Marketing Analytics, an elective module I chose in Term 2. I wanted to try something completely different and push myself to develop skills I would otherwise not have the opportunity to develop. Marketing Analytics explores the statistical methods and softwares used to undertake and produce market research. Throughout the term, we learnt to run regressions, cluster analyses and decision trees using R Studio. I have never coded before and, quite honestly, never expected I ever would. The module and the incredible teaching ignited a new interest, and hopefully a new passion, that I am excited to explore further in the future. 

What has inspired you most throughout your studies at WBS?  

The biggest difference I noticed when moving from undergraduate to postgraduate study was the people that surrounded me. Each student has a strong purpose to be here and brings with them a unique story and perspective. Their drive and ambition has been the most inspiring element of my studies. From day one it pushed me to think outside of the box, question my own pursuits and motivate me in my academic work. Together we have moulded each other in our ambitions. I have especially been inspired to consider alternative career paths, industries and countries to work in, as a result of testimonials, personal experiences and aspirations of my course mates.  

Do you use the sports centre, visit the Arts Centre, attend club nights on campus, or have any hobbies you enjoy? 

I was never much of a gym person before coming to WBS, however the proximity and the amazing facilities offered by the Sports and Wellness Hub on campus have completely transformed the way I work out. Living in Heronbank East I could not be closer to the Sports Centre and therefore try to visit once a day. However, this is not the only way I have benefitted from the on-campus lifestyle. I enjoy watching plays and musicals at the Warwick Arts Centre, grab lunch at the bi-weekly street-food market and get a drink with colleagues at T-Bar after class. Living and working on campus has been such a unique experience that offers a convenience that has truly enriched my time here.  

What do you aim to do once you graduate?  

I am currently applying to a variety of graduate schemes and entry-level positions in management and marketing and have primarily focused on companies in the UK and Germany. During my job search, I am not only targeting certain industries of interest (incl. Fashion, Luxury, and Video Gaming), but I also focus on the nature of the position. I am eager to continue developing my cultural understanding and am therefore considering schemes which offer the opportunity for international rotations within the first few years. 

What are your tips for getting the most out of an MSc for those starting in September? 

I previously studied in London and found it extremely difficult to engage with many of the university events, programmes and societies, due to the long commutes. A campus university, such as Warwick, has so much to offer its students. In order to get the most out of your one-year MSc at WBS, I highly recommend students broaden their horizons by taking advantage of what the campus and the university has to offer. Whether this means joining relevant societies, visiting events or attending summits, there are so many opportunities for students to develop and deepen their managerial interests. WBS and Warwick University make this as convenient and fun as possible. 

What top tips would you give to prospective MSc students who are deciding if WBS is the right place for them? 

I think the most important thing prospective MSc students should consider during their decision-making process is how they envision their university experience. Having experienced both the city and campus university life, I can confidently say that they are distinctly different. Some people may already know exactly what they are looking for, but for those who do not, I can only recommend visiting the university open days. I strongly encourage you to not only explore WBS, but also the university, the campus accommodations, Leamington Spa and Coventry. The reputation of WBS truly speaks for itself, however students should explore what environment they would like to live and work in. Having fallen in love with the campus myself, I understand how much the environment you are living and studying within, can contribute to your overall experience.