Shradha
Shinde

What route did you take into postgraduate study?

I completed my Bachelors degree in Management and International Business at MITSOM College Pune and then progressed to the MSc Management and International Business at NTU.

Prior to starting my course I completed a three months internship as an Assistant Store Manager at New Poona Bakery, Pune. My responsibilities included monitoring stock levels, handling complaints, meeting business KPIs and liaising with my line manager.

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

For me it was recognised accreditation, work-based learning and work opportunities (placement), all of which were offered by Nottingham Business School. The fact that the MSc Management and International Business course is CMI accredited was also a real attraction to me.

Why did you choose to study your course and what did you enjoy about it?

As I've always had a passion for business, my vision comprised of exploring and discovering new techniques in which businesses can adapt and thrive when faced with economic changes.

The most memorable experience for me was the fresher’s week where there were a whole bunch of induction events dedicated to international students. I really felt that NBS made me feel welcome as a new student.

In addition, I enjoyed the International Experience module which I studied in semester two. We went to Greece and worked in a diverse team of five (mixed between local Greek students and NBS students) on a project for a Greek company called Metabio Biobank. The business was looking to expand their profitability by investing in different international markets and wanted a set of viable options.

We worked together as a team, to research the business and potential markets around Europe that suited the business objectives and vision. We then presented our findings back to the business leaders at the end of the project. In total, we spent 15 days in Greece consulting, building our business network and making new friends. It was a fantastic experience.

What are the key skills you have developed during your time at NBS?

I can confidently express that NBS has inculcated me with strong communication, team working and critical thinking skills.

Constantly working in different and diverse teams taught me to communicate clear and concise information to team members, adapting to different communication approaches where necessary.

How has the masters degree differed from your undergraduate experience?

I gathered practical experience rather than just theoretical knowledge during the course. All of my modules were different and there was always something new and exciting to learn at every stage of the study process. The classrooms were lively, full of interaction with very modern facilities.

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

The paid placement opportunity, International Experience module, CMI certification and the MSc Management and International Business combination will definitely help me to stand out.

My course provided me with a wealth of relevant knowledge and invaluable practical experiences, which really have boosted my confidence and skill set.

What do you think sets Nottingham Business School apart from other business schools or colleges?

The masters degree comes with a placement opportunity and crucially, an opportunity to work and travel internationally. NBS has a philosophy of personalising experiences and study routes, allowing you to really get what you want out of the degree.

How have you found moving to and living in Nottingham? Is there anything that surprised you?

Nottingham is an extremely safe city, fun and well connected city to live in. There are lots of pubs and local places to spend time with your friends and class mates.

Nottingham is well known for having a young population and being a lively place for students from all over the world. One of the events I loved was called Goose fair which is held every October in the city; be sure to check it out.

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

I highly recommend students to apply for the course which interests them because they will receive a life time opportunity to gain an international experience. I have had such a positive life changing experience since being in Nottingham and I want others to have the same. In fact, I recommended NBS to a couple of friends and they are set to join for postgraduate study!

What are your career plans?

The sky is the limit! In the future, I see myself as a successful entrepreneur who owns a global chain of restaurants. NBS has really helped me to broaden my horizons and boost my independent thinking.

What company do you work for and how was your overall experience finding a placement?

I work as a Postgraduate Recruitment Assistant for Nottingham Business School. The role is based in the marketing and recruitment department where I help prospective students apply for their course of interest at the Business School and help them get in touch with current students and alumni to share their experiences on the course and their time in Nottingham. The role is very diverse as I have been speaking and meeting students from all across the world.

Finding a placement in the UK whilst studying was challenging, however with targeted networking, making use of NTU’s dedicated Employability Team and of course, perseverance I was able to secure a year-long, paid placement here in the UK.

Finally, in one sentence, how would you describe your experience at NBS?

I simply had the best experience and I wish I could do it all over again.