MSc Information Management Joshua Hunte

"The saying is true: “People Make Glasgow”. Everyone I have met thus far was friendly and willing to help you which made it easy for me to settle here."

What were your reasons for taking on a postgraduate degree?

While working as a Management Information Systems (MIS) Officer, I noticed the IT industry was rapidly changing due to innovations in technology and business domains which required professionals with new skills and knowledge. As a result, to remain competitive and relevant in the future I decided to study an MSc in Information Management from Strathclyde. As Malcolm X said, "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

How did you make the decision to study at Strathclyde?

My decision to study at Strathclyde was based on a checklist which included a university with industry affiliations, an internationally recognised and accredited programme, entrepreneurial development and an excellent student experience.

Firstly, I wanted my chosen course to be developed with input from the industry to help ensure that I am “industry ready” upon completion.

Secondly, my chosen course needed to be internationally recognised and accredited. The MSc in Information Management fulfilled this requirement being internationally recognised and accredited by two bodies - Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), and the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

"The lecturers and staff are very supportive throughout the learning process and will go the extra mile to make your student experience the best while studying at Strathclyde."

Thirdly, I have a keen interest in entrepreneurship. Strathclyde's focus on entrepreneurial development, underpinned with awards such as UK Entrepreneurial University of the Year 2013 and Knowledge Exchange Award 2014, was a great selling point for me.

Finally, Strathclyde is rated high in student experience with a QS 5 stars rating in 2017.

Though there are several universities that match these criteria, other factors influenced my decision. These included living in a city with friendly people, a university with great student experience and fun activities during study breaks like hiking, visiting cities, attending various music events etc. All of this combined made this university my choice.

What do you like about your course?

I like the fact that the Information Management programme is a great mix of business and computer science courses which was developed with input from the industry. Furthermore, it's recognised and accredited by CILIP and CMI which makes it one of the best qualifications for professionals in business, data and technology roles.

Also, the lecturers and staff are very supportive throughout the learning process and will go the extra mile to make your student experience the best while studying at Strathclyde.

What specialist knowledge/professional skills have you developed whilst studying the course?

What's great about studying the Information Management programme is that each course can become a career path. I have developed specialised knowledge and skills in information law, business analysis, web and database systems development, and data analytics/machine learning tools and techniques.

What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your postgraduate degree, and your time at Strathclyde, will help you achieve your goals?

My dream is to use the knowledge and skills learned in this course to improve various aspects of our daily lives, e.g. health care, education etc. I believe Strathclyde has given me a solid foundation to pursue that dream by providing industry inspired courses coupled with a student-focused learning environment and a supportive network of lecturers and staff.

How have you found your time living in Glasgow and what's your favourite thing about the city?

Living in Glasgow is fun. At first, I was a bit surprised with the weather since it was rather cold compared to living at home in Grenada, but I adapted quickly.

The saying is true: “People Make Glasgow”. Everyone I have met thus far was friendly and willing to help you which made it easy for me to settle here. I enjoy hearing music and songs from street performers while walking through the city, discovering Glasgow's murals, hanging out with friends at the park, pubs, movies, museums etc. There is so much to do in Glasgow.

Has anything surprised you about living/studying here?

As I mentioned, the biggest surprise for me was the weather! In one day I have experienced rain, snow and sun in Glasgow. Nevertheless, when the sun is out, Glasgow is one of the best cities to be in especially places such as Glasgow Green, the Necropolis, George Square, Kelvingrove Park or along the River Clyde.

What do you do to relax in your spare time?

During my spare time, I hang out at Glasgow Green, go to pubs, the movies or parties, and visit the gym with friends. I've also visited other cities and places of interest throughout the UK. These include Edinburgh, Liverpool, Manchester, the Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe.

What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to study in Glasgow at Strathclyde?

We all have big dreams and aspirations for our lives, let Strathclyde help you fulfill them.