BusinessBecause caught up with George Watson, a current MBA student at Cass Business School in London, and the winner of our future of the sharing economy competition.More than 120 mostly MBA respondents to our survey answered the question, “What else will we be UBER’ing by 2050?”
George’s entry, “Department Store Drone Club”, centered on the idea that technology can enable underused resources to be utilized more efficiently. It left our panel of judges, from Facebook-owned Instagram to parking space app JustPark and P2P property rental platform FlatClub, hugely impressed.
George secured a strategic mentoring session with Bain & Co, as well as $1,000 in prize money, which he looks forward to spending on a wine-tasting holiday in France.
Prior to his MBA, George worked for a decade as a proprietary futures trader. Yet as the world of trading grew increasingly automated, he decided to move on, armed with an exceptional GMAT score of 750.
After graduating from the Cass MBA, George hopes to pursue a career in consulting. Would he work with a sharing economy firm? Definitely!
What are your thoughts on winning the annual BusinessBecause competition?
I was absolutely thrilled to win the competition! I’m really looking forward to the mentoring session with Bain. I’m hoping to get some tips on what I can do next to further my career options.
I’m also looking to write my dissertation on the sharing economy or disruptive business models, and I’m hoping to get some really good advice moving forward in that area.
Why is the sharing economy on the rise?
Technology is enabling us to utilize underused resources a lot more efficiently. I started thinking: What else in my house do I have in a cupboard, which I almost never use? And what technology will allow me to utilize that more efficiently?
Thirty years ago, you had to go to physical shop to rent an item. Now, you have an app on your phone.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m aiming to end up in some kind of consultancy [firm]; something more client-facing than what I was doing before.
I think finance may be where I have to go first, and then [I will] move into strategy consulting. But we’ll see. I’m open to offers, if they come in!
Does a career in the sharing economy appeal to you?
Definitely! But I would prefer to do it from a consultancy point of view, rather than actually work for the [sharing economy] company.
Companies like Airbnb are only disruptive for so long. They offer a lower-cost service to niche parts of the market.
Personally, I would get more enjoyment helping them move on from an outsider’s point of view.
Why did you decide to pursue an MBA?
I’ve spent the last 10 years trading in financial markets. Everything is going quite automated in that world. It got to the point where I was either going to have to learn a programming language or do something different. I fancied a change and an MBA seemed right.
Why did you choose to study at Cass Business School in particular?
I nearly came to Cass 10 years ago to do my master’s, so it’s kind of always been in my thoughts.
I applied for both Cass and Imperial and got accepted by both. At Imperial they do Skype interviews, which I found impersonal. At Cass, I met quite a few people during my interview, and they gave me a feel for the place. That’s really what swung it.
Cass is a bit more finance related as well, and I thought that was a sensible thing to leverage.
What tips do you have for taking the GMAT?
I used a forum called GMAT Club which was really good. They have loads of math tests, which you can buy for around $70, which really helped me.
Student Reviews
Best Journalism school in Europe
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.
The Journalism program was kind of a big deal. Rumour was that we were the best in Europe!
The lecturers were not just experts in their field; they’re practically journalistic royalty. They were invested, passionate, and had a knack for turning the most flat press release into a riveting news story. With their guidance, I’ve learned to navigate the chaotic world of media like a pro.
The campus was a melting pot of every culture, being that we had such a diverse international crowd.
Being in the heart of London, I had the world at my fingertips - there was always a new corner to explore, a hidden gem of a cafe to discover, or a street performer!
City, University of London wasn't just a university; it was a chapter in my life story that I’ll never forget.
Learning environment
The teacher-learner ration is manageable, giving each learner a chance to gain personal attention. It is also easier following up on the progress of a student, as the numbers per class is not large. the conducive environment for learning includes clean classes, standard desks, world class instructional facilities and the opportunity to engage lecturers even after their sessions. The team spirit at City is above board, with learners getting chance to learn both from instructors and colleagues. This is the university of choice; the place to be.
Classes
I liked that each class had a manageable number of learners, making the professor-learner ratio favor knowledge acquisition. I also liked that study schedules were manageable, and not overwhelming. The focus on talents and gifts even within the learning environment makes it possible for learners to achieve the best of their potential, and this has worked to the advantage of those that have schooled at City, University of London
Classes
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.
professors
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.
Rather interesting
The academics are tough, but in a good way. The professors are experts in their fields, so you know you’re learning from the best. They push you to think for yourself and really dive deep into the subjects. But it’s not all about hitting the books; London itself is like an extension of the campus. You’ve got museums, galleries, and just the general buzz of the city to keep you inspired.
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
