Helen

Why did I choose my programme (and CBS)?
I chose GMA because the programme offers a variety of different theoretical knowledge and capabilities which you can apply to a broad range of future career paths. The competency profile and the acquired knowledge was exactly what I was looking for as I wanted to gain a broader perspective into various business aspects such as management and data analytics. I personally enjoy learning about the intersection between business economics and data analytics, and then applying it in the context of problem-solving and decision-making.

What do I like the best?
I like that the courses we have are a combination of everything, ranging from strategy, analytics courses to finance and accounting. It gives you a broader perspective into different theoretical skills which you can apply to various roles and career paths. Another thing that I like a lot about the programme is the "GMA Society". We are a relatively large programme with a lot of students, so being able to do social activities with everyone where you get to meet students from GMA but who are in different classes is always exciting.

How do I experience the difference in academic level between my bachelor and master programme?
I definitely experience a higher academic level at my master's compared to my bachelor's. Majority of the courses are a progression from the courses I have had on my bachelor's, just more advanced with higher level of expectations for the exams. However, they are more in depth and cater more to my academic interests. There is also a lot more focus on group work compared to at the bachelor's level.

What are the biggest challenges in my study programme?
The biggest challenge is definitely the fact that it's a new programme. We don't have anything to compare it to in terms of expectations for the courses, or any guidance from previous students. Also, as someone who comes from a not-so-analytical bachelor, one of the things that is a bit intimidating for me specifically is the analytics part of the degree. However, that is what I look forward to learning about the most as I can imagine needing this skill for future work opportunities, which makes it quite exciting.

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?
I think because it is a new programme, a lot of the things I would have liked to know before were simply not possible to know, as there hasn't been any students studying this before. It would have been useful to hear more about some great study techniques for exams, hear about the level of expectations and how to manage effective group work, especially when dealing with very different group dynamics. What I was most skeptical about was definitely the study environment and the career path that aligned with the programme once you graduated.

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?
After graduating I want to pursue a career within strategy, or management consulting, combined with business analytics. I know that I want to improve my efficiency in data analytics, which I have the chance to do so on this programme, especially with the options for minors as elective on the third semester. However, I like to keep an open mind when it comes to career opportunities, and I believe that the GMA programme gives me that advantage due to the broad capabilities and theoretical skills you gain after graduating.

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…
Take the time in the beginning of the semester to find a great study group. Especially when majority of the exams and class assignments requires group work. Not only is it an advantage with the reading materials, note taking and motivating each other throughout the semesters, it also makes it a bit more fun. Helping each other out with study techniques and just overall having a group of friends you can rely on and work great with truly makes it feel a bit easier, especially during the "tough" periods.