Nana
Yaw Nkansah Oduro

What route did you take into postgraduate study?

I graduated with a BSc Administration from the University of Ghana Business School. Upon graduation, I worked for a year as a Research Assistant at the Ghana Business School for my national service requirement. As a research assistant, I focused on the field of corporate social research and ethics, assisted my supervising professor with lecture duties and undertook various administrative tasks.

When choosing a Masters degree, what did you consider it important to have?

For me it was a multicultural environment, work placement opportunities, scholarships and a good ranking. I found all of these at NBS.

What were your reasons for studying a Masters degree and why did you choose Nottingham Business School?

The main reason why I chose to study in the UK was the prospect of getting international exposure for not only future career opportunities but also increasing and specialising my knowledge.

I was really attracted by the international scope of the course modules and the NBS learning structure. In addition, NBS offered a generous scholarship package which I applied for and was successfully awarded! This made a big difference to me in making the decision to make my dreams a reality of studying at NBS.

What did you enjoy about studying MSc Management and International Business?

My course incorporated an International Experience module which took me to Greece! Here I acted as a consultant for a small company (Moovin) to advise them on entering the Maltese and Bulgarian markets.

In addition, I conducted research for Moovin in the transport industry to help it develop its gig platform that facilitates the supply and demand for safe, affordable land travel through a mobile app or online. The International Experience module had a great personal impact and helped me gain exposure and understanding about real, competitive business environment in Europe and the wider world.

Another aspect of the course which will really help in my career development was the APCD (Academic Personal Attribute Development Program) which enables you to understand more about yourself as you progress through the degree and to work on developing your weaknesses into strengths.

I believe I made the most of the opportunities available from the academic side, to my social life as well as networking. I have made a big transition personally as I am now able to network and communicate through expressing myself confidently.

What was your Major Project choice and why?

I chose to do the Business Research Project as I wish to pursue a PhD as the next step of my career.

Describe what your seminars are like and how they differ from your undergraduate experience?

Seminars at postgraduate level are really intensive compared to undergraduate level. We have three days during the week allocated for seminars which run from 9:00am until 4:00pm. There is also a big difference in terms of delivery and the practical interaction in the seminars through board games, videos and other methods which made the theoretical concepts of the studies easier to understand.

What are the key skills you have developed studying at NBS?

The key skills I developed were in the areas of research, communication and networking skills. This was possible through the academic support system for research in the form of library bookings on how to develop research skills in data analysis, regression and other skill development programmes. In the areas of communication and networking I developed these through the various societies, volunteering opportunities and clubs that I was involved in during my time at NBS.

How has the Masters degree differed from your undergraduate experience?

The major change is that NBS gives you the exposure to the practical application of theory. In addition, it has to be the intimate student to tutor ratio which enables you to build a strong relationship with your professors and have a lot of contact time which is really amazing.

Do you feel that your overall experience at NBS will make you more competitive in the job market?

Having a Masters degree from NTU, an accredited university in the UK will definitely make me more competitive in the global job market.

What do you think sets NBS apart from other business schools?

In my opinion, what distinguishes NBS from others is the genuine concern and support it provides towards its students. NBS truly offers support systems which enhance both the academic and social wellbeing of its students. A prime example is the job opportunities provided by the university for its students which I was a part of working in NTU’s International Office.

Would you recommend studying at NBS to prospective students?

Definitely. Reflecting and recognising on my own personal and professional development, there is absolutely no doubt about recommending Nottingham Business School.

Have you benefited from the services provided by the Employability Team?

The Employability Team was of great benefit to me. They helped with everything from structuring my CV, cover letter to interview and assessment centre preparation.

What clubs, societies or other activities have you been involved in at Nottingham Trent University?

I was heavily involved in the Ghanaian society, I was also a Student Ambassador, took part in the Thinkubator Challenge and volunteered in the Click Silver event organised by Capital One Ltd. Here I served as a mentor to the older population, teaching them how to use computers.

I also had the opportunity to work for NTU’s International Office as a Social media Ambassador giving me valuable UK work experience.

How have you found moving to and living in Nottingham?

Living in Nottingham was a smooth transition for me. Initially, it took me a month to adjust to the culture and get used to the city. Nottingham really is an international student city, so settling in isn’t really an issue!

Student life is always interesting and there are loads of opportunities to meet new friends and take part in any activities which suit your particular lifestyle. Living and studying in Nottingham has been a superb and wonderful experience

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about applying for the degree?

Personally, I found the whole experience is 100% beneficial whilst meeting and exceeding my expectations. Looking back, I couldn’t have chosen a better place to be other than Nottingham. I really benefitted a lot in terms of developing a strong group of friends, including academics and the opportunity to develop myself into the person I am today.

What are your short term and long term career plans?

My short term objective is to further my studies and obtain a PhD in the field of corporate social responsibility, sustainability and ethics. My long term career plan is to start my own consultancy firm and I believe Nottingham Business School has given me the edge in terms of achieving my career objectives.

Finally, in one sentence, how would you describe your experience of studying a Masters degree at NBS?

It has been a fulfilling experience bringing me closer to my career goals.