Geoff Gerschke used the Business Mastery Project on the Cass MBA to gain the experience he needed to transition into a consulting role in the heart of London
Geoff Gerschke grew up in the state of Wisconsin, where he spent his childhood and adolescent years before enrolling at the University of Wisconsin-Madison to study a bachelor’s degree in business. He was following in his parents’ footsteps, who also attended the university.He says he doesn’t regret the time he spent there for a second, but on an exchange to Hong Kong during his degree he was given a glimpse of a completely different world. He’s adamant that opening his eyes to that world was the catalyst for him craving an international career.
“I always knew I wanted to try and get back into an international setting, whether professionally or for school, so that was one of my motivations for doing the MBA in London, at ,” he explains.
Based in the heart of London, Cass offers MBA students exposure to “one of the true global cities”, Geoff says. Indeed, it was exposure to the hustle and bustle of the UK’s capital that persuaded him to stay after graduating—he’s just launched a consulting career with a boutique consulting firm, Q5, in the city.
By doing so, Geoff, who graduated from the Full-time Cass MBA class of 2018, has completed the fabled MBA career triple jump—changing industry, role, and country. Before he enrolled at Cass, he was working as a banking analyst for JP Morgan in Chicago.
Switching from JP Morgan to Q5 wouldn’t have been possible without the Business Mastery Project (BMP), though. The project, at the end of the Cass MBA, is an opportunity for students to put their MBA knowledge to the test and take control of their own, independent consulting project.
Students can either produce their own academic white paper, use their connections to source a project with a company of their choosing, or go through the Career and Professional Development Team, who source BMP-calibre projects for students.
Geoff went with the latter and ended up working with O2 on a project as part of the sales innovation team. He says that the BMP played a direct role in helping him secure his new role after graduating.
“To show that you can work in that kind of [environment] with a company across different functions shows that experience I might not have had from my previous professional life, but I can do as a result of the BMP and what I was working on,” he explains.
He also says that because the nature of the MBA at is very team focused—which helps develop vital collaborative soft skills—it’s nice to be given the opportunity to own your own work, to also develop the ability to work independently when the need presents itself.
“It was very rewarding for me,” Geoff asserts. “Being able to apply everything I’ve learned over the course of the year into a kind of capstone project, it culminates into a nice ending.”
The BMP also allows students to build proficiency to successfully work in today’s fast-paced, innovation-demanding business world. Geoff, who says he’s always sought to bring high energy and a positive attitude to any project or group work he’s undertaking, implies that skill is indispensable for MBAs today.
“Creativity and innovation are important for a variety of reasons, and I would argue that a key one is due to the pace of change that is being seen across a variety of industries at this time,” he says.
While creativity and innovation have connotations with today’s startup economy, they are equally as paramount among already established, multinational companies, Geoff explains. Thinking about creativity, he adds, is key for any role—a mantra, for him, that was highlighted during the BMP.
“O2 is far from a small startup company, but the primary question I sought to answer was built around creativity, in an effort to innovate their sales channels,” he explains. “I think the project itself is a good example of why creativity and innovation will be important for MBAs in the future.
“If you are not thinking this way now, then there is a strong chance incumbent and new, challenging competition will leave your company behind due to the pace of change!”
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
