Imperial College Business School and Discover Economics are working together to increase the diversity of economics students.  

The Discover Economics initiative is aimed at students from state schools and the workshops are designed to inspire young people to consider economics as one of their post-16 or post-18 options, whether that is at university or through an apprenticeship. We offer one-off workshops, bookable by teachers/school coordinators for groups in Year 10 and Year 12 – scroll down to find out more!  

What are Discover Economics workshops? 

Discover Economics workshops are interactive sessions designed to introduce students to the world of economics in an engaging way. The workshops aim to break down the barriers that often make economics seem intimidating or irrelevant. By focusing on real-world applications and issues, the workshops help students understand how economics impacts their daily lives and understand the global issues they care about such as climate change, inequality and the cost of living. 

Who leads our Discover Economics workshops? 

Our workshops are led by BSc Economics, Finance and Data Science Student Ambassadors. Our ambassadors are knowledgeable about economics and passionate about sharing their interest for the subject with younger students. Student Ambassadors are provided with the subject content beforehand, and they have all the essential training like presenting information and safeguarding.  

What do the workshops cover? 

Each workshop is carefully crafted to be both educational and engaging. School or college coordinators can select their preference of subject areas that they feel their students would find interesting. This includes topics such as: 

• Climate change,  

• the cost of living,  

• wealth inequality,  

• the gender pay gap,  

• panic buying,  

• and video games and violent behaviour. 

Our workshops include a short introduction of Student Ambassadors, real world applications and issues in economics, and information about careers in economics. The workshops last about 1 hour and are interactive, so students participate in discussions and problem-solving exercises.  

“The session went down well with our students and the Q&A at the end was really useful as they had a range of questions such as 'how does technology affect the validity of data when looking at causality' to 'How quantitative is the course?'. The three students did an excellent job answering each question in details.”   Teacher from St Mary’s and St John’s CE School  

Stella Dourtme, Global Online MBA student and a recipient of the Imperial Women’s Scholarship, shares her top advice for securing this prestigious award. The Imperial Global Online MBA Women’s Scholarships are awarded to women showing exceptional academic achievement and professional excellence, as well as a commitment to supporting women in business.

How did it feel when you found out you’d secured the  Imperial Women’s Scholarship?  

I was extremely excited and honoured to have been selected for this prestigious award at such an acclaimed institution! I felt empowered to pursue my dream and to be part of this amazing community of women leaders at the Imperial College Business School during my time as a student and beyond. 

What motivated you to apply for this scholarship at Imperial College Business School? 

In addition to providing financial support, scholarships offer an excellent opportunity to network with high-achieving colleagues and enhance one's competitive profile. Personally, I was particularly interested in the Imperial Women's Scholarship. This interest arises from my background in humanitarian work with UN Women in New York during the emergence of the MeToo movement where I met many influential businesswomen who are committed to women's empowerment. Additionally, my experience working with Zaha Hadid, a highly influential female architect in a predominantly male-dominated industry, further fuelled my advocating for more women in leadership and interest in this scholarship. 

To increase your chances, it is important to apply early and dedicate enough time to prepare.

What does this scholarship mean to you in terms of your academic and personal goals? 

As I pursue my MBA while working and facing the challenges of being a new mother, I represent a significant portion of applicants who are highly passionate about advancing their careers. However, it would have been impossible for me to be here without the financial support of the scholarship. Studying the Global Online MBA  programme will equip me with the knowledge and skills I need to achieve my goals of becoming a leader in the built environment design, technology, and real estate development sectors

What advice would you give to students who are aspiring to earn a scholarship? 

To increase your chances, it is important to apply early and dedicate enough time to prepare. Consider the full range of your skills and interests to effectively advocate for your candidacy. Engaging in activities outside of work is a great way to demonstrate leadership skills and personal interests beyond what you can achieve within your company or organisation. 

Saina Kalra is currently pursuing an MSc Strategic Marketing at Imperial College Business School. She has transitioned into this programme in London, blending innovative marketing strategies with advanced business insights. Join us as we explore her journey, the challenges she faces, and the triumphs she achieves in this exciting new chapter of her academic career.

I never imagined I would one day be shaping real marketing strategies in one of the world's most dynamic cities. My journey has been a whirlwind: a Global BBA across Singapore and France, stints at luxury powerhouses like LVMH and Estée Lauder, the fast-paced energy of Crocs, and advising giants like HSBC and Google Pay at the WPP group. But I felt something was missing; I wanted to be at the forefront of where marketing could make a real difference. Impact was my driving force and when I discovered Imperial College Business School, with its cutting-edge MSc Strategic Marketing,  I knew it was the perfect fit.
London swept me off my feet. It's full of history, innovation, and is a kaleidoscope of cultures. South Kensington, our campus location, is close to grand museums such as the Natural History Museum and Science Museum, bustling cafes, and Hyde Park's, offering a moment's respite.

Being embedded in a world-leading STEM institution, Imperial College London, infuses everything we do with a spirit of innovation. Imagine brainstorming sustainable packaging solutions fuelled by insights from our Materials Science department, or working with engineers on the next generation of AR-driven retail experiences. Those cross-disciplinary connections aren't just a perk; they're integral to the Imperial way of thinking.

The programme at the Business School itself is the perfect counterpoint. One minute I'm dissecting the psychology of consumer behaviour, and the next, I'm building data-driven digital strategies. We have electives on everything from Luxury Brand Management to the intricacies of AI in marketing. If there's a niche that sparks your curiosity, chances are there's an expert here to guide you.

There are many Clubs and Societies to participate in beyond the classroom. As President of the India Business Careers Club, I'm bridging the gap between theory and the vibrant Indian business scene. The Dean's Advisory Council lets me advocate for student well-being alongside some of the sharpest minds on campus. And through my role as an Imperial Move & Athletes ambassador, you're as likely to find me cheering on our sports teams as debating brand strategies in a seminar.

My time at Imperial is still unfolding, but the change is already palpable. It’s an ecosystem that champions ambition, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This isn’t just about securing a fancy job title (though those opportunities are abundant). It’s about becoming a leader who understands the intricate dance between business and the betterment of society.

What sets Imperial apart is the sense of a larger purpose. Our professors aren't just academics; they're leaders who've shaped global brands and advised governments. This exposure, coupled with the cohort that hails from all corners of the world, has fundamentally altered my perspective on what marketing can achieve. No longer is it just about selling products; it's about driving sustainable consumption, about ethical communication, about using business as a force for good.

So if you're like the younger me, a dreamer with a hunger to make your mark, know this: a top-10 global university like Imperial doesn't just give you a degree. It gives you a launchpad to redefine what's possible – both within you and in the world.

Our MSc Strategic Marketing leverages the Business School's top marketing faculty and experts in strategy, entrepreneurship, and technology. The programme uniquely integrates marketing fundamentals with cutting-edge technology and data-driven decision-making. Suhani Gupta, a MSc Strategic Marketing student, shares her reflections on the enriching journey of studying this dynamic programme.

The MSc Strategic Marketing programme has given me a global perspective and showed that possibilities are endless, so keep on expanding your horizons.

London, a city rich in history and innovation, where cobblestone streets echo with countless tales. Just as Arthur Conan Doyle brought Sherlock Holmes' adventures to life on these very streets, my own journey began when I joined Imperial College Business School.

Choosing Imperial College Business School

With an engineering background and a stint at a top management consulting firm, I felt there were still missing pieces in my career puzzle. It became clear that marketing was the key to completing that picture.

Applying to the MSc Strategic Marketing at Imperial was a clear choice. It has turned out to be the ideal blend of everything I had envisioned. While the prestigious ranking and the Imperial's esteemed reputation are significant draws, what truly sets this programme apart is its comprehensive approach. It’s not merely marketing; it’s a fusion of strategy, entrepreneurship, and innovation. As I look back on my journey so far, here are my reflections. 

Embracing the unknown

Embrace the unknown there and take risks. Initially daunting, I had to step out of my comfort zone to improve in areas where I felt less confident. The programme has helped me enhance my presentation and time management skills and take on leadership roles, fostering personal growth and newfound confidence in my abilities.

I always thought marketing was just about creativity, but as I near the end of my programme, I realised it’s much more layered. MSc Strategic Marketing has taught us to think strategically and adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, preparing us to be future leaders. It has made me even more curious and observant. Staying abreast of industry trends and continuously learning new skills is crucial to staying ahead in our careers.

 

Learning at Imperial

There will be opportunities for you to choose your electives, to fill gaps in your knowledge. I thoroughly enjoyed electives like Effective Crisis Management and Market Decision Making which were different from what I had studied and gave me an insight into what goes behind building a successful business. Apart from this, it is imperative to make the right choice for the summer term. I opted for a consulting project from the other options available because I wanted to apply my learnings to a practical setup and working with a client like Pladis, one of the largest biscuit manufacturers in the world has been one of the most rewarding experiences. 

Learning at Imperial goes well beyond the classroom. Since the beginning, I have been actively involved in various clubs, holding positions such as Chief Marketing Officer for the India Business Careers Club and Head of Retail for the FMCG, Luxury, and Retail Careers Club. I also dedicated time to volunteering for Imperial-supported events and social causes. Additionally, I enjoyed the opportunity to choreograph for the annual cultural event of the Indian Society. This involvement has not only enriched my educational journey but also equipped me with leadership skills and provided invaluable exposure to diverse aspects of student life, making my experience fulfilling.

Team work

We’ve all heard the saying "Teamwork makes the Dream work," a significant portion of the coursework here revolves around group projects but experiencing it first-hand was more challenging than I expected. Collaborating with students from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a unique perspective, has been both intellectually stimulating and humbling. It required mastering the art of unlearning and relearning, more than just dividing tasks—it’s been about leveraging each person’s unique strengths to achieve a common goal. And, in this journey, you come to realise that your team members often become lifelong friends.

Value of Networking

You quickly learn that "one's network is their net worth." The programme provides countless avenues like Career fairs, and guest sessions, allowing you to forge strong relationships with leaders you look up to. A standout experience for me was the CMP lectures delivered by the industry experts that helped build a deeper understanding of several topics and breakfast with board events during the Woman@Imperial Week, where sessions offered the chance to engage in profound conversations with trailblazing women. 

The MSc Strategic Marketing programme has given me a global perspective and showed that possibilities are endless, so keep on expanding your horizons. Don’t come here only for just world-class rankings, groundbreaking research or industry-rooted courses, Imperial is about a transformational journey that prepares you for life and this journey for me has been the culmination of a childhood dream and I would do it all over again.

The part-time MBA class at a glance 

This year 85 students have joined the Weekend MBA; the cohort (33% being female) has an average of eight years' work experience and counting. The part-time format of the programme means they will continue to work in their current roles and apply what they learn in the classroom from the outset.  

The majority of the cohort hail from Europe and the UK (33% and 29% respectively) and one third of this year’s class are from further afield, committing to the Weekend MBA from Asia/Pacific (22%), Africa & the Middle East (9%), and the Americas (7%).  

The diversity continues to trickle down into the industries that our students have built they careers in. While the three most common industries are IT/tech/telecoms (24%), banking/finance (17%) and consulting (14%), the remaining 45% have experience in a vast range of areas like engineering, pharma/biotech/healthcare and energy. This diverse range of experience is bound to bring unique takes in every class and discussion! 

What lies in the years ahead?  

After establishing a foundational knowledge through their pre-study modules, the students kicked off the start of their programme with an induction week on campus. This consisted of a variety of introductory lectures, meeting faculty and socialising with fellow students.  

The programme then begins with core modules that focus on key management theory. Each module provides an in-depth foundation of business theory and practice, with opportunities to test understanding through case studies and simulations throughout.  

Once the foundations have been laid, the students will choose six electives. This freedom to tailor their programme means they can specialise in the following areas:  

• Analytics and Operations  

• Entrepreneurship and Innovation  

• Finance   

• Leadership and Organisation  

• Marketing   

• Strategy   

Developing an international outlook is crucial for students who want to become future leaders. Therefore, exploring global markets is a core element of the programme. The Global Experience Week is an opportunity for Weekend MBA students to discover a new business market, learn from innovative businesses and explore a different culture. Past Global Experience Weeks have included the Nordics, Brazil, and Kenya, where students explored how businesses can be transformed to tackle climate action. 

An individual final project at the end of the second year marks the end of the programme. Students can put what they’ve learned into practice and create real strategic value for their employers.   

By the end of the programme, the cohort will have transformed personally and professionally, armed with an extensive toolkit that will allow them to enact impactful change throughout their careers. 

In 2023, I decided to study MSc Business Analytics as a part-time online student at Imperial College Business School. I have a passion for numbers and have been honing my analytical skills as a consultant in logistics for several years. When I first pursued my studies, data science did not exist,. I found this programme at Imperial and saw it as a great opportunity to reconnect with student life, learn new skills, and prepare myself for future professional challenges. 

I also want to improve my digital skills as I was born in an analog world; I aim to enhance my understanding of the technologies around us and connect better with younger generations. As a consultant, I encounter many young professionals, and it is important to understand their motivations to drive performance in a consulting environment. 

My on-campus experience  

At the start of my journey at Imperial, our cohort was the first to come to London for Induction Week instead of just for exams at the end of the term. When I arrived in London, I was excited to meet my cohort but also a bit nervous due to the age gap, but it was an amazing experience. The week in London was wonderful for bonding with classmates and learning from each of them. They are a great group of people with diverse backgrounds, eager to learn, share, and enjoy time together. It was mentioned that we would learn from each other as much as from the programme content, and I couldn't agree more. 

Imperial prepared a wonderful week for us, covering every detail with great care; it was very useful to be introduced to the various tools we would be using during the term. As a newcomer to various programming tools and environments, having this introduction surrounded by professors and Teaching Assistants (TAs) helped break the ice and ensured a smooth transition when we returned home. The events were designed to allow us to explore the campus, learn about the services provided, and get to know our fellow students better. I found it particularly valuable that Imperial showcased former students who led some of the sessions, providing insights and allowing us to envision our futures through their experiences.  

We left Induction Week eager to continue, full of energy, and with new friends. I also took the opportunity to meet some professors and start discussing my Master's project. The professors are approachable and supportive. 

My online learning environment  

Back home, The Hub - our online learning environment - is great. It contains all the information we need, including materials, reading articles and books, and online classes. It is a comfortable and safe space. The activities are organised to support the learning journey, fostering the exchange of information and learning from others. One of my favourite features is the ability to see other students' answers to questions, providing different perspectives and feedback from tutors, which enhances the learning experience. This incremental knowledge-building prepares us for more challenging activities. 

The course balances teamwork and individual work, which I believe Imperial masters. In a technical programme, it is important to craft course material that develops one's abilities while also incorporating teamwork. Teamwork is both challenging and rewarding; we work with bright minds with diverse backgrounds, enriching the experience. Learning each group's dynamics and ways of interaction is relevant and supportive to daily working life. For me, it has been particularly interesting to work with a younger generation and bridge this gap. The Business School helps by placing us in teams within similar time zones, and people are flexible and willing to participate. So far, I am very happy with the collaborative learning - we have accomplished many tasks together, developing trust and companionship. Group members become a safe port to share information, ask for support, and help each other. 

My flexible study schedule  

While studying alone, I prefer to stay at my workplace, which is quiet after most people leave, this allows me to concentrate. We also have a WhatsApp group for the entire cohort and use Microsoft Teams to stay connected and reach the TA team. This allows us to discuss and continue learning together. My study routine involves extending my hours at the workplace to balance work and study.  

The programme is challenging and interesting, and as I might be a bit rusty, I need to study for a significant amount of time. On weekends, I combine studying with rest and go to the gym, which is essential for maintaining my energy. 

Teresa Gomes, Full-Time MBA student shines a light on her experience attending the MBA Tournament (MBAT) at HEC Paris. The MBAT offers – an exciting multi-sport event that brings together MBA candidates from top business schools across Europe and beyond.

Hosted annually at the HEC Paris Business School campus, MBAT is a celebration of sportsmanship, diversity, and friendly competition. This year, Imperial’s MBA cohort participated in the tournament for the first time.

“The whole experience was about much more than just winning medals. It was a truly immersive experience that started even before the tournament began. As the competitions unfolded, our Imperial candidates poured their hearts into every event, showcasing their skills, determination, and teamwork.”

With over 100 different events spanning physical sports, e-sports, cultural showcases, and intellectual challenges, MBAT caters to a wide array of interests and talents. From traditional sports such as football, rugby, and cricket to gaming competitions such as Mario Kart and FIFA, there was something for everyone to encourage maximum participation from students of diverse backgrounds. Not just that, art lovers could showcase their skills in dance competitions and fashion shows, while musicians could battle it out in the Battle of the Bands.

Our cohort embraced this diverse range of events with enthusiasm, competing against some of the finest athletes and artists from prestigious institutions such as London Business School, HEC Paris, Cambridge Judge Business School and Oxford Said Business School.

Our journey kicked off with a delightful Eurostar train ride to the enchanting city of Paris, where we had the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe. Upon arrival at the HEC Paris campus, we were immediately captivated by the lush, green surroundings and the breath-taking lakeside chateau. We registered for the event, collected our wristbands, and downloaded the MBAT app, which provided a comprehensive schedule, transportation details, and even a "connect" feature that facilitated networking with students from other schools based on shared career interests and preferred markets.

“The best part about MBAT was that it presented a celebration of diversity and inclusivity.”

Throughout those 3 eventful days, the air was filled with competitive spirit, with the top three schools receiving coveted awards based on their cumulative performance across all events. But the whole experience was about much more than just winning medals. It was a truly immersive experience that started even before the tournament began. As the competitions unfolded, our Imperial candidates poured their hearts into every event, showcasing their skills, determination, and teamwork.

While some battled on the fields and courts, others served as esteemed jury members, judging events like the dance competition and fashion show. The best part about MBAT was that it presented a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. Our students proudly participated in the PRIDE parade, demonstrating their support for the LGBTQ+ community and promoting a spirit of acceptance and unity.

Earlier this month, my Global Online MBA cohort gathered in London from all over the world to complete the Capstone module, a pivotal part of our MBA journey designed to integrate everything we have learnt over the past two years. Over an intense seven-day period, our team logged almost 100 hours of brainstorming, planning, interviewing, and refining our ideas.  

Pre-Capstone week  

In the lead-up to the Capstone, our first task was to form groups of up to six people, consider several problem statements faced by our companies, and conceive a corresponding innovative solution that was both feasible and socially impactful. Forming the group was straightforward for me, as I had the opportunity to reunite with my first-year syndicate group members: Padma, Brandon, Sebastian, James, and Yuko. We had an excellent group dynamic and agreed to put our minds together for the Capstone week (and of course go out and hit the town!).   

Day 1  

Arriving on Sunday at Scale Space, located in Imperial’s White City campus, after a 30+ hour journey (not to mention the time difference and jet lag!) from Australia was a challenging start to the week. However, seeing everyone from our cohort once again after a year-long hiatus was truly a highlight, and I had the opportunity to catch up with my peers from around the world over lunch and an opening ceremony of sorts.  

Day 1 was also the day we settled on a project. Our group chose to enhance WHILL’s “mobility for all” mission. WHILL is known for its innovative mobility devices (particularly electric wheelchairs) designed to improve the lives of people with mobility challenges. Our proposed solution was to build on their existing technology to create a solution that would be even more inclusive and accessible.  

Day 3  

One of the most demanding aspects of the week was the sheer volume of work and the need for constant iteration. Receiving feedback from multiple coaches was a challenge, as we had to consider various aspects of our solution and balance the technical feasibility, financial costs, and meaningful social impact. In fact, to quote one of our professors, the job of the coaches was “to confuse you!” However, what stood out most was the camaraderie within our group. Our familiarity (having worked together for most of 2022-23) really helped us get through the continuous pivots we had to make. More importantly, we also had a “brainfood” sharing session, where we shared snacks from around the world: Australian biscuits, Swiss chocolates, Singaporean crispy skins, Japanese Kit Kats, and British flapjacks. These snacks encouraged us to take much-needed breaks and helped us bond even more (until the snacks mysteriously disappeared one night!).   

Day 5  

After several days of intense preparation for our pitch, we were rewarded with a cohort social at a nearby pub. We were treated to plenty of food and drinks and had the opportunity to unwind and connect with peers outside of our Capstone groups. Through this, we had an opportunity to listen to what other groups had been working on, and in some instances, were able to exchange ideas and offer insights. The diverse backgrounds of the cohort meant that we could leverage the expertise of medical professionals, frequent flyers, and other professionals in testing the viability of our solution, and vice versa.    

Day 7  

The week culminated in pitching our solution to an esteemed (and intriguing!) panel of judges comprising a former princess, a former United Nations representative, and a senior employee from a major video game company. It was a nerve-wracking yet exhilarating experience as our team conducted multiple dress rehearsals and prepared for a gruelling question and answer segment. Given we were the first group to present, expectations were sky-high – but we succeeded in the end. We received insightful feedback from the panel, which was invaluable for refining our approach as we put together our final slide deck for submission.   

The Global Online MBA Capstone was undoubtedly one of the most intense weeks of my life, but also one of the most rewarding. I learnt what it means to be truly resilient in an academic sense and appreciated the value of diverse perspectives as our cohort collaborated across all our different projects. The real-world challenges we all tried to solve did test our limits, and there were certainly more than a handful of instances where we all needed to take a breather. However, this experience just demonstrates the passion and high calibre of Imperial students, with whom I have had the privilege to work. A special thank you to the Imperial College Business School staff who made this week possible – it was truly a fantastic opportunity to make use of the facilities across the South Kensington and White City campuses.