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FROM LBS MiM Admissions Blog: End of Year Reflections: My MiM Journey |
Written By, Selin Spencer Ciloglu, MiM2024 As my Master’s in Management (MiM) programme at London Business School (LBS) comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on an extraordinary year of academic rigor, personal growth, and professional development. This journey has been far more than a traditional academic degree; it has been an all-rounded experience that has reshaped my perspectives, sharpened my skills, and prepared me for the next exciting chapter of my career. Academic Excellence and Intellectual Growth Embarking on the MiM programme at LBS, I was looking forward to diving into a world of intellectual challenge and academic excellence. The curriculum, designed to push boundaries and foster critical thinking, exceeded my expectations. Courses such as Financial Accounting, Marketing, and Strategy were not just about learning but about applying complex concepts to real-world scenarios. The extensive case studies and group projects provided a practical, hands-on understanding of the theories we discussed in class. It was truly fun to have conversations and debates in the classroom. The faculty at LBS deserve special mention. Their expertise, dedication, and passion for teaching have been truly inspiring. Professors not only impart knowledge but also encourage us to question, explore, and innovate. One of the highlights for me was the opportunity to participate in the Global Experience – which is a part of the MiM programme – to Medellin, Colombia. This unique experience allowed us to apply our classroom knowledge to international business contexts, visiting companies in Colombia, interacting with industry leaders, and understanding global market dynamics. It was an invaluable experience that broadened my horizon and gave me a global perspective on business. Collaborative Learning and Networking LBS is known for its emphasis on collaborative learning, and this aspect of the programme has been incredibly enriching. The diverse cohort, comprising individuals from various backgrounds and cultures, created a vibrant learning environment. Working in our study groups was a constant feature, whether for class projects, case competitions, or extracurricular activities. This collaborative approach not only enhanced my learning experience but also taught me the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication. The networking opportunities at LBS were unparalleled. The school fosters and facilitates connections with numerous companies through guest lectures by industry leaders, networking events, and career fairs. Beyond just meeting with recruiters and companies, it was great to be in the same ecosystem with people who share common interests and common career aspirations. Student clubs also played a significant role in my networking journey. Being part of various clubs – Snow Club, Women in Business Club – allowed me to connect with peers who shared similar interests, learn from their experiences, and collaborate on projects and events. Global Aspect One of the most striking features of LBS is its global nature. The diversity of the student body and the international outlook of the programme have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of different cultures and global business practices. I now have friends from all over the world, and this cultural exchange has been one of the most enriching aspects of my time at LBS. The school celebrates this diversity through numerous events that bring together different cultures and traditions. From international food festivals to cultural nights and national day celebrations, these events have provided a platform for us to share and appreciate our diverse backgrounds. This global exposure has not only broadened my perspective but has also taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in the business world. Next Steps: Career in Consulting As I look ahead, I am excited to embark on my next professional journey in strategy consulting at Kearney in their London office. The knowledge, skills, and experiences I have gained at LBS have been crucial in paving my path towards this role. The academic curriculum, combined with the practical exposure and networking opportunities, has equipped me with the tools and confidence to excel in this field. The Career Centre at LBS has been an invaluable resource throughout my job search process. From refining my resume and cover letter to preparing for interviews and connecting with alumni in the consulting industry, the support I received was exceptional. Additionally, interacting – and case prepping – with MBA students and learning from their experiences provided me with valuable insights into the consulting world. My peers have also played a significant role in my career journey. The collaborative environment at LBS fostered a culture of mutual support and encouragement. Sharing knowledge, resources, and experiences with my classmates has been incredibly beneficial in preparing for my role at Kearney. Conclusion As I conclude this reflection, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible journey I have had at London Business School. The MiM programme has been a transformative experience that has not only equipped me with the knowledge and skills to excel in my career but has also shaped me into a more confident and adaptable individual. I am excited about the future and the opportunities that are ahead. With the foundation I have built at LBS, I am ready to take on new challenges, make a positive impact, and continue my journey of lifelong learning and growth. |
FROM LBS MiM Admissions Blog: End of Year Reflections: My MFA Journey |
Written By, Nicholas Jeffrey, MFA2024 Before LBS When I first heard about LBS, I was an outsider looking in. I saw the prestigious rankings, I heard about the incredible diversity, I marveled at pictures of the beautiful campus, and I read about the alumni who had gone to achieve exceptional careers. I began to imagine myself attending such a school, and I embarked on a journey to speak with current and former students there. What surprised me during this process was how friendly everyone was, and how willing they were to help. Soon enough, after a challenging application process, I found myself sitting with an acceptance letter in my inbox, along with a Merit Scholarship. I thought I knew what lay ahead of me – after all, I had done the research. But I was in for a big surprise. Diversity LBS is more than just a highly ranked business school with a prestigious reputation – it is a collaborative community where people come from across the world to learn, grow, and succeed. I knew that diversity was a priority for the school, and this excited me. However, before joining, I was also worried that I may find it difficult to truly connect with my classmates given that everyone was from such different backgrounds. I have never been so wrong. LBS attracts friendly people who are always willing to help others around them, and I was easily able to connect with my classmates from the day I arrived. Throughout my time at LBS I was able to make friends with people from over 40 different countries. Very few places around the world would have granted me such an opportunity. Close-Knit Culture Another feature that stood out to me about LBS is its close-knit culture. No matter how cliché it may sound, being part of the LBS community felt like being part of a big family. My undergrad was done at a university with over 50,000 students. I knew most of my classmates, but the rest of the university remained strangers to me. In contrast, LBS felt completely different. I learnt with my LBS colleagues, I played sports with my LBS colleagues, I visited new countries with my LBS colleagues, and within just 2 months I knew everyone in my MFA program. Following this, it did not take long to branch out. LBS has such a strong emphasis on clubs and extracurriculars, and soon I knew many other students from across the other programs: MIMs, MAMs, MBAs, and MIFs. These new people I met helped me with career advice, interview preparation, new technical skills, and general self-development; and I would never have landed my post-LBS dream job if it had not been for their help. Being part of this school is more than just education – it is about building the most diverse and close-knit network you could possibly imagine. Scholarships & Scholars Network In addition to education and network building, LBS goes to great efforts to support its students, with one significant area being scholarships. Coming from South Africa, the costs of international higher education are extremely challenging, and LBS helped alleviate this by awarding me a Merit Scholarship. Before even arriving this instilled in me a strong sense of confidence, and I was extremely grateful that LBS believed in me enough to offer such an award. More so than just financial support, this Merit Scholarship also granted me access to the LBS Scholars Network – a community of all the LBS students who have been awarded scholarships across all programs. As previously mentioned, I had access to multiple different avenues for networking and building relationships with other LBS students; however, the LBS Scholars Network elevated this to an even higher level. Being able to attend multiple events for LBS Scholars helped me branch out and meet so many more incredible students – an example being my very first event where I met a group of MIFs and MBAs who quickly became close friends of mine for the remainder of my LBS tenure. I later found myself doing the same elective courses as many of these students, and already knowing them from beforehand became a substantial advantage when it came to groupwork projects and general class interactions. LBS continually offers so many opportunities to meet fellow students, and I strongly believe that a wide and diverse network can be formed here without even fully trying – it just happens naturally. Next Steps Now that I have completed my MFA degree, I am moving onto an Investment Banking role in London. The MFA has not only taught me the financial skills required to thrive in such a role – it has also taught me how to thrive within a diverse environment, and this will be extremely useful in the multicultural workplace that London offers. I know that I will continue to stay in touch with all my LBS friends, and I look forward to making use of the incredible network I have formulated at LBS throughout my future career. There is no doubt that we will all go on to achieve exceptional careers, and I cannot wait to see how everyone progresses as alumni of the one and only, London Business School. |
FROM LBS MiM Admissions Blog: End of Year Reflections: My Journey as a MiM Scholar |
[img]https://admissionsblog.london.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Olivia-150x150.jpg[/img] Written By, [b][url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-tapper1/?originalSubdomain=uk]Olivia Tapper[/url][/b], MiM2024 As an English Literature student, I had never considered a career in business. I was passionate about the arts, loved to read and thrived on analysing the works of great writers to construct arguments. After graduating I began a career in marketing – an industry that fosters creativity which felt like a natural transition from my degree. I was surprised to find that I felt unsatisfied in my role and was forced to take a deeper look into what really drives and motivates me in my work. Over the following year I explored careers across various sectors including art direction, tech, and healthcare. In each role I felt most energised when devising strategies, analysing problems, and finding innovative solutions. My curiosity drove me to want to understand the situations I was faced with whilst my analytical approach helped me find considered and practical solutions. I had discovered a genuine passion for the world of business and decided to trust that instinct. Whilst I knew what aspects of work I enjoyed, I still didn’t know what role or industry would suit me best. I determined that a [url=https://www.london.edu/masters-degrees/masters-in-management][b]Masters in Management[/b][/url] would provide me with the necessary foundation to thrive in whatever career I chose whilst enabling me to explore different areas of business and find my passion. [b]Choosing LBS[/b] The key factors I considered when choosing a university were its reputation, its careers service, and the programme’s syllabus. The careers service was a big consideration for me since having access to resources, advisors and a strong network would enable me to explore and eventually obtain my ideal job. The syllabus was similarly important since, coming from a non-business background, I was determined to cover as much material as possible over the course of the programme. For that reason, I prioritised courses that were comprehensive and offered advanced specialisations to ensure that I could accelerate my learning. I also prioritised universities that had a global reputation for excellence. Being half-British and half-Spanish, it was important for me to obtain a degree that would open doors in both countries and wouldn’t limit me in the future. London Business School quickly became the only option for me as it met all my criteria. The School’s stellar reputation as the 3rd best business school in the world, alongside its incredible alumni community and extensive program syllabus made it the obvious choice. However, these factors inevitably combine to make the School highly competitive. I applied nonetheless and was thrilled to subsequently receive an acceptance letter. [b]Merit Scholarship[/b] Having applied to LBS in the third round of applications, many of the deadlines for scholarships I was eligible for had already passed. I was therefore incredibly surprised to receive an email a few weeks later offering me the [url=https://www.london.edu/masters-degrees/financial-aid/search-for-funding/london-business-school-merit-scholarship][b]London Business School Merit Scholarship[/b][/url] covering a third of my tuition fees. The scholarship represented more than just financial relief, it also helped instil a sense of confidence in me as I was rewarded for my ambition and diversity of thought. This helped me realise that my value was not defined by the undergraduate degree I had studied, but rather by what I was determined to achieve moving forward. Stepping so far out of my comfort zone required determination and faith in my abilities – this scholarship served as a reminder of that throughout the year. Part of me had been unsure about what to expect from the LBS community as a competitive, world-renowned institution in the business sector. However, the School’s holistic approach to evaluating applications demonstrated a commitment to open-minded and forward-thinking policies which confirmed to me that LBS was the right choice. [b]Programme Experience[/b] My past year studying the MiM at LBS has exceeded my expectations. The first few months of the course introduced me to new subjects, friends, and possible careers which resulted in a very intense but fulfilling period. My only regret from my first term is not giving myself time to find my footing and discover what I wanted in a career before diving into the job search. Over the rest of the programme, I learnt a combination of technical and soft skills, each of which challenged me in different ways. As the course went on, I gained confidence in my ability to overcome the most complex aspects of the course and became increasingly certain about the qualities I was looking for in my next role. Throughout the year [url=https://www.london.edu/masters-degrees/student-alumni-and-ambassadors#sortCriteria=%40profilesurname%20ascending][b]the Scholars Network[/b][/url] offered opportunities to meet exceptional people on the course, many coming from diverse academic backgrounds like myself. Through these events I was able to connect with people who were at the same stage of their career exploration and who were also evaluating their priorities. This led me to a community of people who kept me grounded throughout the year and helped me explore what path I wanted. I found incredibly supportive people who, after many nights of studying and preparing for interviews, have become some of my closest friends. [b]Looking Ahead[/b] I have now completed the MiM program at LBS and feel very fortunate both for the people I have met and the lessons I have learnt over this year, academic and personal alike. My exploration of different sectors has led me to pursue a career in consulting. As a consultant I plan to further my learning by working across different industries whilst applying my analytical abilities to devise strategies for various business challenges. I am now looking forward to beginning a summer internship at Roland Berger’s London office. LBS has provided me with the resources to explore the roles in which I thrive whilst simultaneously granting me the necessary tools to secure them. The Merit Scholarship helped me begin exploring the unique ways in which I create value beyond my academic background. The education this course provides goes far beyond outstanding academic preparation. LBS grants you the tools to identify “Why you?” but maximising this experience requires utilising the resources on offer to tailor the programme around enhancing your unique skill set. I encourage you to explore what you offer as an individual, use this degree to strengthen those abilities and find an environment which will enable you to thrive. |
FROM LBS MiM Admissions Blog: End of Year Reflections: My Journey as a MiM Scholar |
Written By, Maria Chiara Pacciolla, MiM2024 One year may seem like a short period, but when it’s packed with obtaining a masters degree, planning your future, securing a job, and enjoying the experience, time truly flies. Reflecting on my journey, it’s astonishing to realize all that has happened in just ten months at LBS. LBS is a unique place, teeming with opportunities, stimuli, and challenges. While the sheer volume can feel overwhelming at times, the personal growth it fosters makes every moment worthwhile. Starting as a Merit Scholar Beginning my journey as a merit scholar was both an honour and a responsibility. It brought confidence and a sense of duty to prove that LBS had made the right choice. My initial plan was clear: land a consulting job in the Middle East. Yet, as they say, “Strategy without Execution is Hallucination.” LBS provided me with an extraordinary “learning journey” to turn my strategy into reality. Support to prepare for a career in consulting. The MiM curriculum at LBS provides you with the hard skills necessary for building a solid foundation in management consulting. However, what truly sets LBS apart is its exceptional network of professionals and peers. Engaging with industry experts and alumni provided me with insights that no textbook could offer. Throughout the year, I did countless case studies with my MiM peers and especially with MBA students who had worked in consulting. What surprised me the most was that they weren’t just helping me with practice cases—something already remarkable given that they had no direct benefit—they were genuinely invested in my journey. They offered advice, feedback, and encouragement every step of the way. This level of support went beyond expectations and truly exemplified the strong community at LBS. Every interaction, from formal mentoring sessions to casual conversations, contributed to my understanding of the consulting world. This immersive experience ensured that I was not only well-prepared for my interviews but also genuinely excited about the career path I had chosen. Learning beyond the classroom LBS offers a 360-degree learning journey, and the Global Experience (GE) is a perfect example. For those unfamiliar, GE entails a week-long immersive course in a different city, focusing on understanding its key socio-economic drivers. My Global Experience took me to Cape Town. This trip was transformative. Having never visited South Africa before, I gained fresh perspectives on global economic dynamics and local challenges. During the week, we had the chance to support a local business facing a significant challenge. This gave us a practical learning experience and allowed us to make a meaningful impact using the skills we had acquired. Furthermore, coming together as a team to tackle real-world challenges strengthened our sense of community building strong friendships. Exceptional People: From Students to Professors I cannot stress it enough: one of the most remarkable aspects of LBS is its community. Students, alumni, professors, and the Programme team create a strong support network that is both a source of inspiration and opportunities. The School attracts exceptionally driven students from a wide range of backgrounds, from management to biotech to psychology. This diversity enriches every discussion, project, and interaction, fostering a learning environment that is as global as it is dynamic. The professors at LBS are equally exceptional, bringing a wealth of industry experience and academic excellence to the classroom. Many have worked in top-tier corporations or launched successful entrepreneurial ventures, providing a hands-on approach to learning that is deeply rooted in real-world applications. Their insights, drawn from personal corporate and entrepreneurial experiences, offer invaluable perspectives that go beyond traditional academic instruction. Courses supporting personal growth beyond a conventional management curriculum. Amidst the rigor of the year, LBS offers courses focused on personal development, recognizing the need to balance professional ambitions with life’s simpler, yet essential, priorities. One such elective, “Wisdom and Happiness,” was particularly impactful. The “Wisdom and Happiness” elective was more than just a break from the intense focus on business and finance; it was an opportunity to gain deep insights into what it means to live a meaningful life. The class discussions and reflective exercises helped me understand the importance of balancing my career aspirations with my personal well-being. Giving back as a Student Ambassador Serving as a Student Ambassador at LBS was one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. Throughout the year, I had the privilege of representing the School and connecting with prospective students. This role allowed me to give back to the School that had decided to invest in me as a merit scholar. I participated in campus tours, information sessions, and networking events, sharing my experiences and insights with future students. Being a Student Ambassador also helped me develop my leadership and communication skills. I took pride in helping others navigate their decision-making process and showcasing the vibrant, supportive community at LBS. This experience deepened my connection to the school and reinforced my commitment to contributing to its ongoing legacy. My new journey ahead As my time as a student concludes, I look forward to the next chapter as an alumna and embarking on my professional journey as a consultant in Doha. This year has undoubtedly made me more resilient and, to use a business-trendy phrase, “agile.” These qualities, nurtured at LBS, will be invaluable as I navigate my future career. In reflection, my year at LBS has been a whirlwind of challenges, growth, and satisfaction. It has prepared me not just as a professional but as a person excited to face the world. |
FROM LBS MiF Admissions Blog: I will find a way or make one – an ‘outsider’ making her way in central banking |
By Hinako Kijima, MIFFT2024 Crossing paths with the ‘Rock star’ in international finance On June 11, I had the greatest honour and privilege of organizing and moderating an exchange session with the European Central Bank (ECB) President Madame Christine Lagarde at the ECB headquarters in Frankfurt, as part of the LBS Frankfurt & Paris Global Experience elective course. Students from the Masters in Finance (MiF) programme, Masters in Financial Analysis(MFA) programme, and Sloan programme had the unique opportunity to ask questions about the outlook of ECB’s monetary and macroprudential policies directly to the President. As we shook hands, Madame Lagarde greeted me with a bright smile – “It’s nice to see you again”. Indeed, this wasn’t the first time I had the pleasure of meeting the wonder woman. Our paths first crossed at the G7 meetings in Japan last year, when I served as the liaison officer to the ECB delegation, representing the Bank of Japan (BOJ). Having had the opportunity to meet one’s ultimate role model is the greatest fortune one could ask for. “I am going to be myself and therefore probably different” In early July of 2019, an article in the Financial Times caught my eye: “Female forces are the economic future”. It was reporting the news of Madame Lagarde’s nomination to lead the ECB from November. This news was particularly meaningful to me because I was about to join the BOJ in October, and I knew that central banking and finance in general is predominantly a male-dominated sector. Since then, I started to follow Madame Lagarde’s public speeches and interviews. During her first press conference as the President of the ECB in December 2019, Madame Lagarde told the press: “I am going to be myself and therefore probably different” and “I’m neither a dove nor a hawk and my ambition is to be an owl that is often associated with a little bit of wisdom”. For a fledgling central banker watching the press conference from the far east, it was most refreshing and inspiring. That moment, it became clear what I wanted to be, and what I wanted to achieve. Maybe I can too The gender of the new ECB President was not the only reason why I felt encouraged and empowered by the news of Madame Lagarde’s appointment. It was also her background that was at times described as ‘unique’ or ‘unconventional’ for leading a central bank, being a lawyer by training, not an economist. I too did not have a conventional background for a central banker – I read political science for my undergraduate degree and obtained a master’s degree in education policy prior to joining the BOJ – two areas that I believed were crucial in bringing about change for the betterment of our societies. On top of that, I had spent nearly half of my life abroad, completing my secondary and tertiary education in the UK. So, I guess I always saw myself as an ‘outsider’ in the central banking world and in Japan, someone nobody could quite place. Thus, seeing Madame Lagarde making her way into the highest ranks of international finance and central banking gave me hope and the feeling that “maybe I can too”. This feeling supported and guided me throughout my early years in central banking. True value of an outsider During my time at the BOJ and my studies at LBS, I have begun to grasp the true value and brilliance of diversity and how an outsider can think and act outside the box in a way that benefits the team and to the organization. At LBS, we are assigned to a study group of 6 people with different backgrounds to work on the group assignments – one of the cornerstones of the LBS experience. Working in these groups was very enlightening for me, as it made me realize that with diversity and good teamwork, 1 x 6 does not equal 6, but can have a multiplier effect, achieving more than 100% of each individual combined. I believe that the true value of having an outsider is not only to benefit from the uniqueness of that outsider themself, but also to benefit from the outsider bringing out the hidden (or suppressed) uniqueness of other team members. London Calling So, my message here is a call for ‘outsiders’ to join the finance and central banking sector. Especially those of you who really want to make a change. As Robert Schiller stated in his book Finance and Good Society, “At its broadest level, finance is the science of goal architecture – of the structuring of the economic arrangements necessary to achieve a set of goals and of the stewardship of the assets needed for that achievement. Finance, at its best, does not merely manage risk, but also acts as the steward of society’s assets and an advocate of its deepest goals”. I really hope our paths will cross somewhere someday. Find out more about our Masters in Finance here. |
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