MBA Alumni Profiles

Karla Prime: Full-time MBA

I met some very interesting people along the way. In particular the lecturers were very helpful and showed a genuine interest in the cohort and were available for one-to-one discussions.

Why did you decide to study at Newcastle Business School?

It’s excellent graduate employability statistics was a major attraction. It said to me that employers respect the quality and standard of the programmes on offer. My research also revealed that the Newcastle Business School MBA programme was internationally accredited. It was my hope that the programme would attract more international students, which it did, and that I would be able to learn from their experiences and enable me to network and make new business connections.

What did you enjoy about studying the MBA?

The MBA programme was an intense 9 months. However, I met some very interesting people along the way. In particular the lecturers were very helpful and showed a genuine interest in the cohort and were available for one-to-one discussions.

How do you feel your postgraduate study has impacted upon your career?

This experience has greatly impacted my career. I had embarked on the MBA as a career change from law to business. I had only expected that it would give me better insight into business management, but it has done a lot more. As a result of what I have learned and in particular the style of learning, I have discovered a new passion for research. It has helped to clarify in my mind the direction I want to take my career.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying an MBA at Newcastle Business School?

The programme is intense, but you get out what you put in. It is up to you to decide what you want out of the programme and work towards that. It is a brilliant learning experience, where you get to learn more about yourself and what drives you.

Have you joined any sports teams, clubs or been involved in any volunteer projects?

I am a member of the Music Society, the Classical Choir and I get involved with Volunteer Northumbria. In particular the Music Society has become my family away from home. It has been one of, if not the main thing, that has made coming back to university enjoyable and exciting. The open mic nights have also given me an opportunity to showcase my talents, make some great new friends and collaborate with other musicians and artists.

What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region?

The friendliness of the people has impressed me the most. After spending time in London where the people are not quite as friendly, it was refreshing to come to Newcastle to be greeted by such friendly and welcoming people.

Brian Welsh: Part-time MBA

Good quality teaching staff and the opportunity to debate during the sessions was very positive.

Why did you decide on Newcastle Business School?

Having decided that an MBA was the most appropriate qualification for me, I researched a number of institutions which offered this course. I felt that Newcastle Business School offered the most suitable mix of teaching and learning opportunities.

What was your favourite thing about your course?

Good quality teaching staff and the opportunity to debate during the sessions was very positive.

What was your favourite thing about Newcastle Business School?

Professional and friendly atmosphere, very positive lecturers and staff members, Newcastle Business School was clearly fast-paced.

How would you describe the city of Newcastle as a place to live and study?

As a local to Newcastle, of course I am obliged to say it is the number one city to study in the UK. As a new Londoner, I still have many fond memories of living and studying in Newcastle.

How was your relationship with the tutors/academics during your time at Newcastle Business School?

Very positive – I was nominated as a student representative for our course which brought me more into contact with senior management and lecturers. Whenever there were any issues, our concerns were listened to and acted upon.

Do you feel your postgraduate study has impacted upon your career?

From the very first session I was impressed by the learning experience that I experienced. One of the first modules encouraged a significant amount of self-reflection which allowed me the first opportunity to see myself through others’ eyes.

This allowed me to identify and work on my (business) shortcomings whilst allowing myself permission to not be perfect in every area, and ultimately to accept some of those shortcomings were not going to change (quickly). That has undoubtedly made me a more successful manager and leader and affected my career opportunities positively.