Matteo, a law graduate from Italy, tells us about his experience of the MSc Business & Management course at Strathclyde...
What were you doing before the MSc?
I am a law graduate from the University of Cagliari, Italy. Right after completing my studies in February, I started helping a local law firm with reporting processes and international clients’ relationships. During the spring, I travelled to Dublin, Ireland to prepare best for the IELTS exam, and in May I completed some volunteer activity in Budapest, Hungary.
What made you take the programme? Why choose Strathclyde?
I chose the MSc Business & Management for its great recognition and awards. As a top European business school, Strathclyde is triple-accredited by AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB. Moreover, the great pre-managerial quality experience of the MSc is reflected in the rankings. The course has featured in the top 100 Financial Times Masters in Management list for over 10 years. On the other hand, the University of Strathclyde has achieved the title of UK University of the year twice, once in 2012/2013 and once during my academic year!
Last but not least, the University is the place of useful learning. This motto says that learning at school is not just academic, but mostly practical. This is demonstrated by the network of alumni who have achieved top positions, and the high employment rates right after the completion of the course.
What has been your experience of the classes?
Each class is delivered through a blend of academic and hands-on experience. In most of the cases, evaluation is given 50% by an exam and 50% by a group project. Each class lasts around 2 weeks, and lessons are interactive and business-oriented, with teachers coming from all around the world, with a variety of backgrounds. Working with multicultural groups is stimulating and a life-learning experience.
Beyond the curricular classes, the programme revolves around the professional development of the individual. First of all, this is done through a specific and creative class which runs along the entire academic year, “Professional Development Practice”. The class simulates real life situations, asking each student to reflect, developing personal diaries and development plans, making them leverage their top 5 strengths. Moreover, growth is guaranteed by many extracurricular activities, with Strath Union and its hundreds of societies, which guarantee the right fit for each student.
Throughout this blend of curricular and extracurricular activities, students develop managerial, hands-on skills. They increase their capacity to listen, coordinate the work, organise plans, time-manage and maximise each member singular strengths. In a few words, it is a leadership academy!
Where do you see the course in fitting into your longer aspirations for study/career in the future?
I am working towards becoming a General or Sales Manager. I find myself entirely changed and upskilled compared to before undertaking the course, feeling more aware about the business world and myself. The course gives you all the tools to kick-start a career in your chosen field, with the help of a professional Career Service which provides tailored suggestions, and CV and cover letter checks. Together with that, regular conferences allow you to get in contact with professionals in your chosen field, whatever it is, from sales to finance and HR.
There is no doubt that the MSc Business & Management is more than just a great element on your CV, it is the game-changer of your entire career.
Is there anything you would especially recommend about the course/classes?
I think the opportunities given by the final project are endless. You can either work for a company or just develop a more theoretical piece of work, it is up to you. Given the Covid-19 situation, I made the best out of the situation by cold-contacting and interviewing CEOs and CRM’s professionals through Zoom. This helped to improve my communication and conversation skills.
What is it like to be a student at Strathclyde and in the city of Glasgow?
The location is wonderful. Scotland is a must-see place to visit, from the cities in the Central Belt, to the beautiful Highlands in the North. Edinburgh and Glasgow are two of the most iconic Scottish and UK cities, really vibrant with a lot of development and leisure opportunities. Mostly, Glasgow is a town for students. Costs are lower than other places in the UK, everything can be reached on foot, and many different clubs are open during the weekend. During the week, students can choose between visiting the town, taking part in the Strath Union’s societies, working out at the new gym or swimming pool, and at last, relaxing in a typical Scottish pub!
What advice would you give to prospective students?
I would definitely recommend them to join Strathclyde. The University is great and is always looking for improvements. Beyond the recognition, it really is the place of useful learning, helping students to build both academic and real life experience. Take the most out of this experience, it will probably be the most intense and productive year of your life. Tailor your development programme to your specific strengths and needs, making sure each minute of your week achieves your final goal!
