After studying Economics in Greece, Konstantinos decided to join Strathclyde for our MSc in International Banking & Finance. Read on to find out what he thinks of the course...
What made you take the programme? Why choose Strathclyde?
Studying Economics I have gained a deep understanding of the fields of economics, management, accounting, and finance. As a child, I often liked to watch movies and read books about stock exchanges and financial institutions. As I grew up, I gradually came to appreciate the importance of finance in the modern world. Finance professionals have a unique responsibility of managing assets and analysing risks to ensure the future success of a company or organization. It is difficult to overstate the importance of this role, as the financial crisis of 2008 showed. It is due to my understanding of the importance of finance and investment, coupled with my longstanding interest for this subject that I decided to pursue postgraduate studies in International Banking and Finance at the University of Strathclyde.
As for the University, it is an award-winning university that is also ranked highly for the Department of Accounting and Finance. The reputation and the ranking of University were crucial determining factors in choosing this University.
Furthermore, Strathclyde Business School is recognised as the best in Scotland and is included in the British top 10, and it holds triple accreditation. All of the above pushed me to select this University for my MSc programme. It was an easy choice.
What has been your experience of the classes?
MSc International Banking & Finance was an amazing opportunity for me to deepen my understanding of financial markets and banks, and gave me a singular life experience. Group projects and teamwork with people from different continents helped me practise skills which are very important in a modern banking setting.
What I found unique about this programme was the broad range of topics, from Corporate Finance to Security Analysis, from Derivatives and Treasury Management to Risk Management. The broad range of courses helped me understand how the fixed income and derivatives instruments work and provided me with the best tools to analyse and evaluate the risks in banking sectors. Quantitative courses entered me to techniques and approaches that are widely used in the modern industry.
Additionally, access to the Bloomberg Terminal was a great opportunity to monitor and analyse real-time financial market data. Tutorials and discussion in the class with professors and classmates were useful opportunities to improve my oral skills and broaden my horizons.
Where do you see the course in fitting into your longer aspirations for study/career in the future?
Earning a Master degree in International Banking & Finance ideally complements my undergraduate degree in Economics. As for long terms career plans, I hope to be in an impactful role in the financial services industry such as investment bank, and my choice to pursue the MSc programme has been a vital step towards it.
Unfortunately, the situation of Covid-19 has impacted financial institutions and the economy. For this reason, the available positions for fresh graduates are limited this period, but I hope that having an MSc degree from this leading university will help me to the next step in my career. Currently, as a fresh graduate, I am seeking for a job in investment banks, asset management and hedge fund companies.
Is there anything you would especially recommend about the course/classes?
The lecturers and staff are friendly, always supportive, and very responsive to student feedback. There is a close relationship between students and lecturers, and they are always willing to help you both in your academic and personal career. Besides the dignified learning atmosphere, students also get to enjoy great facilities on campus, including a notable gym, a number of societies, a student union, and each student can participate in different sports clubs.
What is it like to be a student at Strathclyde and in the city of Glasgow?
Being a student in Glasgow was a fantastic experience. There are so many places and monuments in and around the city, including lots of museums and castles to visit, and sports teams to support for the football fans. Additionally, the River Clyde adds extensive beauty in the city. Traditional streets in the heart of Glasgow show the beauty of Scotland. The location of the campus in the centre of Glasgow adds convenience and safe student life, with all necessities available in proximity. Glasgow is a unique and student-friendly city, and is quite a treat over the year. Visiting the north of Scotland (Scottish Highlands) was a great pleasure during my stay here.
What advice would you give to prospective students?
My advice for any student considering studying at Strathclyde is to absolutely do it. This University offers an extensive learning experience with students from all over the world. This course is intense and you are required to complete assignments and projects, but do not forget that if you manage your time well you will succeed, and you will be appreciated for this success.
Furthermore, speak and make friends with students from different countries than yours. It is an amazing experience. I have made friends from Scotland to Portugal, from Spain to India, from USA to China. This year I feel that I gained knowledge and experiences that I need to continue my career, and all thanks to the Department of Accounting & Finance, the University of Strathclyde, and certainly my professors.
