Fionella
Simbi

What made you decide to do a Masters degree?
Pursuing a Masters degree was always my plan from the beginning. I wanted to gather some work experience before applying for the course so that I can relate the theory learnt in the class with my past experience.

When picking a university to study a Masters what do you consider it important to have?
The course structure, accreditation and scholarships were the key influential factors in my decision of choosing NBS. The other factor that motivated me was the Pioneer Class which focused specifically on Project Management students. The experience gained during this class was also my biggest motivation in choosing NBS to study a Masters degree.

What do you feel is the best aspect about studying at Nottingham Business School?
Based on my experience, the students experience is the best aspect of studying at NBS. Additional, various innovative workshops and practical learning experiences taught me to apply project management techniques in real projects to achieve success. There is a great balance between the student experience and experimental learning which I found the most attractive during my time here.

A few years of work experience gave me a competitive advantage in terms of being able to connect the dots of the practical and theoretical side of project management. The Masters programme has definitely added value and knowledge to my experience and enabled me to further develop my skills.

Can you explain a little about your course? What do you enjoy?
I enjoy my course the most because, the classes were always interesting, innovative and challenging. I feel my course is full of opportunities, all the modules are unique and there is always something new and exciting to learn at every stage of the study process.

I also have a personal academic mentor who always equips me with the skills and experience to help me to achieve my career aspirations. My Mentor always supports me to achieve my full potential in my studies and future career. Working as part of the team during the course has enabled me to develop strong professional and communication skills. I personally feel that the course is the process of continuous personal development throughout the year.

What key skills have you developed during your studies?
Constantly working in different and diverse teams has developed my critical thinking, communications, team working and networking skills. Additionally, the individual course work, enabled me to develop strong academic writing skills, which further helped me to reflect on the theories learnt in the classes making me adaptable to the assessment writing standards of NBS.

In Semester Three, what option did you pick to do as part of your ‘Experiential Project’ and why?
Consultancy Project interests me the most because it will provide me with an opportunity work as part of the diverse team and undertake a focused research to manage a complex project. This will also gave me an experience of working on a project with a real company.

My experience on the consultancy project will also provide me an opportunity to prepare myself for the professional working world. The main reason for me choosing this project is to gain valuable experience and build strong business networks.

Do you get involved with any other activities in Nottingham Business School?
I was involved in Thinkubator challenge, where we worked as part of a creative team, to a tight deadline to give suggestions to the local businesses by providing free, personalised expertise to businesses, further developing my consultancy skills.

Additionally, I also participated in CPD events, global week workshops and Business leader lectures.

How does Nottingham Business School provide you with support, advice and guidance?
Support and guidance is provided to me throughout the course. The Employability Team provided me advice and guidance with the writing CVs, cover letter, practice assessment centres, practice interviews and helped making job application.

I enjoy guest lectures the most because the professionals share their knowledge and expertise about project management in professional world.

My personal mentor provided me help with academic as well as my career goals. Help was provided in terms of creating a development plan for myself to achieve my career aspirations.

What do you think about Nottingham as a city for students?
It is a great student city with numerous employment opportunities, student activities and accommodates international students easily because of its diversity and rich culture.

How has the course influenced your future plans or career aspirations?
The course has positively and objectively influenced my career plans. It has enabled me to learn the importance of networking to achieve career goals, being proactive, flexible, and hardworking. I have developed my existing skills and learnt new skills that will further lead to development in my career.

What advice would you give to students considering studying at Nottingham Business School?
I would say seize the opportunity and make the most of the time you have with NBS. Manage your time properly as the time passes by quickly during your time here. Your outlook and goals will determine your experience. Each day counts from the day you enrol.