Once an investment banker with Royal Bank of Scotland, Vaibhav Negi is trying to foster entrepreneurship with a student-run society at Cass Business School in London.
Vaibhav Negi is studying the full-time MBA program at Cass Business School, based in London.A former banker with the Royal Bank of Scotland, he is also the president of the Cass Entrepreneurship Society.
The student-led group aims to foster entrepreneurialism within the leading UK business school. The society had more than 500 members as of September 2014.
One of a growing number of students ditching corporate careers and opting for entrepreneurship, Vaibhav has plans to launch his own business immediately after graduating.
He previously studied aeronautical engineering at City University, Cass’ base, where he was a student ambassador.
After graduating, he engineered himself a career with British Airways, the UK’s flag carrier airline, before moving into financial services at Royal Bank of Scotland, the state-backed lender.
He worked as a business analyst at RBS’ investment bank in London, before moving into a technical writer’s role, and was eventually promoted to investment governance operations lead for RBS Markets’ £440 million investment portfolio.
The former president of the City chess club will be hoping his next move can satisfy a growing hunger to be involved in entrepreneurship.
Why did you decide to begin an MBA?
For many years now, I’ve been nurturing a growing desire of entrepreneurship. I’ve had several failed and part-successful endeavours, and I was confident that an MBA is my ladder to becoming a successful businessman.
My intention is to leverage my learning from the course to start a business immediately after graduation, and I hope to be running a sustainable small-to-medium scale business within five years.
An MBA will help broaden my knowledge of several streams like strategy, finance, marketing, HR and operations. It will make me a more complete person and improve my confidence.
Also, it will allow me to think strategically and manage change better. I knew that during the MBA experience, I would be able to make connections that will last for life.
What made Cass Business School standout?
There were several credible reasons for choosing Cass. Not only is the location unbeatable, but the school has a top-notch reputation of being one of the finest, and certainly the best value-for-money MBAs in London.
After attending the MBA open day at Cass and sitting through finance and entrepreneurship lectures, I was convinced of the facilities and the quality of academia on offer.
I spent considerable time speaking to the current students, and lecturers and found that the culture fit.
Additionally, I’ve a deep personal connection with City University, and fond memories of my time here previously. The love for City University brought me back.
Which aspects of the MBA have you valued most so far?
Academically, I’ve found the subject coverage very good. The MBA puts a lot of emphasis on core subjects like strategy, finance, accounting, marketing, HR, and operations. They are taught well, with plenty of examples and real-life case studies.
There are opportunities to do joint projects with companies, which offer great professional experience. It is not unusual for some of these to end with an offer of employment.
Cass frequently brings in guest speakers to mix things up. There are several networking opportunities, and MBA candidates make great, lasting connections.
There’s a good array of optional electives in the second part of the course, which allow me to customise my MBA – I’m taking a lot of subjects that I believe will help me with my entrepreneurial vision.
There are also plenty of extra-curricular activities that you can get involved in.
There are a few international trips, which are always fun. I’m visiting Iceland next month, and a month later I’m visiting Silicon Valley in San Francisco.
Are there any unique benefits to studying in London?
Where else would you rather be? The networking opportunities here are unmatched. Cass is well-located for the City of London and Canary Wharf – where financial careers are made.
Not only is this one of the biggest financial hubs of the world, but Tech City is around the corner from Cass.
Socially, London is amazing – there’s so much to do. There’s beautiful tourism, fancy restaurants, nice high streets, plenty of sports and leisure centres to keep fit, and more.
What are your goals for the Cass Entrepreneurship Society?
Our vision is to infuse the Cass community with a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. The society believes that inside each budding entrepreneur lies a great idea that could potentially change the world – or maybe just make a lot of money.
The society’s mission is to create a dynamic environment that enables individuals to share ideas, inspire each other and build a diverse network, by connecting with individuals passionate about entrepreneurship.
We deliver this through hosting events, collaborating with other entrepreneurial bodies, raising our profile and building our network.
Why do you think more MBA students are beginning to consider entrepreneurship as a career path?
Most aspiring entrepreneurs like the idea of setting up their own business because they like autonomy, independence, creativity and flexibility, and want to make their own decisions.
An MBA candidate develops knowledge and an understanding of several core areas of business.
Moreover, MBAs usually grow an appetite for making connections and thinking outside of the box. This is key to entrepreneurial success, and hence the MBA candidate finds themselves well-placed.
In which ways can the Cass Entrepreneurship Society help students who are hoping to launch start-ups?
We seek to equip our members with the knowledge, inspiration and support to go out and start their own entrepreneurial ventures. This is done via events, motivational guest speakers and networking opportunities. We ensure that our members are aware of and receive the right support that they seek.
What are your future career plans?
I am working on a business idea. If all goes according to plan, it will take shape this year.
I am also keen to work for an organisation that will allow me to grow as an individual, where I will have some degree of autonomy and be at the forefront of business.
I’m involved in charity work and volunteering. In the long term, I’d like to work for charitable causes full-time. It gives me a sense of fulfilment.
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When I first stepped onto the campus of City, University of London, I knew I was in for a ride - and not just on the Tube! With its vibrant energy and an impressive repertoire of programs, City U became my home away from home.
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The diversity at City University facilitates interactions and is a direction toward the unity of the world. The classes are well built to match the number and needs of all students regardless of the elements of diversity that set people apart. The use of technology in delivery makes learning even more interesting and achievable. At City University there is no distinction pegged on the issues that make people unique.
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The team of lecturers at the Uiversity are well experienced. Their level of insight and the methodologies of delivery works for the interes of the leaeners. My learning experience was largely boosted by the level of knowledge of the professors at the institution, and their passion to transfer the same to learners. I appreciate every class I attended because of the level of insight I was able to gather
The best university I’ve been to
The campus and the people I've met have made it a wonderful experience. I was reared in a small town with a graduating class of only 88 individuals, so moving to City University was a huge adjustment for me. My dorm has more residents than my whole high school combined! I enjoy the atmosphere here, and everyone is so friendly. Outstanding academic options and a stunning campus. Really great from beginning to end. The educators genuinely love what they do, and the students are ready to learn. On or around college, there is always something to do with friends, and the social scene is particularly warm.
Bayes Business School
As a student at City university attending Bayes Business School I would totally recommend choosing this university as the experience is exceptional with great social networking opportunities . Professors are significantly helpful, delivering with excellence and professionalism. Everyone is happy to help and make you feel welcomed in such an esteem university as City, offering exceptional development and guidance through out the course.
Economics and Politics
Incredibly amazing university, the way they polish students and help them boost their morale and think intellectually is worthwhile. Many universities have international partnerships to allow exchanges between their students. The most obvious subjects for these opportunities would be those that involve languages, and the study of people and places.
Clinical biology
I really like it it’s perfect for me with not too many people and not too few either. All the modules are amazing. I love the toy bar. I love all the societies that I’ma part of. Especially the colour Bollywood society
Unlocking My Potential at City University London
My time at City University London was truly transformative. The university's vibrant community and diverse extracurricular activities allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and professional connections that extend beyond the classroom. I was impressed by the university's commitment to academic rigor, character development, and personal growth, which created an ideal environment for me to reach my full potential. The research-driven and industry-relevant curriculum provided me with a solid foundation in international business, while the dedicated faculty and staff offered invaluable guidance and support. I feel grateful for the well-rounded education and holistic experience that City University London offered, preparing me for success in my career and beyond.
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Urban campus life
At the University of London, I have experienced dynamic and diverse academic environment where I was challenged by rigorous coursework. You will have the flexibility to choose from the wide range of courses, participate in numerous extra-curricular activities and take advantage of the many opportunities
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This place is amazing
My experience at City, University of London, has been great. The lectures are where it's at; our presenters are industry specialists who transform complex subjects into captivating narratives that leave you wanting more. They are enthusiastic about teaching and employ novel approaches to bring their subjects to life. I've witnessed firsthand their desire to go above and beyond, whether by staying late after class or sharing additional materials. They are committed to ensuring every student's success, and it is evident that they are invested in our educational path.
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City, University of London, has been a fantastic experience for me. The instructors are specialists in their subjects, and their passion and participation in teaching is encouraging. They are constantly accessible to answer questions and offer assistance, making the learning experience genuinely exceptional. The school and surrounding region are great, with a lot to do and see. I've enjoyed my time here and value the high-quality education I've gotten. The university's commitment to providing entertaining and helpful lectures has made a significant difference in my academic career.
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My experience at City University, London, has been extraordinarily beneficial. The lecturers are kind and actually care about their students' success, going above and beyond to ensure we understand the content. The academic environment is excellent, and the university fosters a strong sense of community. The professors genuinely care about their students, and there are numerous tools accessible to help us throughout our studies and beyond. I am glad for the opportunity to study here, and I value the university's commitment to student success.
