MBA students at Cass Business School, Oliver Yogananthan and Lina Rahmanian, say choosing London was a no-brainer
After graduating from his bachelor’s in International Relations from George Washington University, Oliver Yogananthan wanted one thing: an invigorating, interesting career outside the spectrum of your regular nine-to-five.He perused the market, looking at the United States Marine Corps and the US Navy. He chose the latter and spent the next four years in various roles, first as an analyst at The Pentagon, and then an officer on two US Navy vessels.
Through his time in the Navy he says he honed his technical skillset but felt it could be put to stronger use in a different role. It was then that he began to look toward the business world, and an MBA at Cass Business School, in London.
“I wanted to come to London as I wanted to broaden my horizons,” he says. “It’s a competitive and dynamic city.”
Oliver (pictured below, right) says he is the only former military professional in the current MBA class at Cass. He brings to the class a skillset that revolves around meticulous time management, leadership, and inspiration when pushing teams to achieve.
One of the key benefits of the Cass MBA, he adds, is being able to conduct group work and learn from a diverse set of peers—the current MBA class at Cass Business School is made up of 64 students represented by 29 nationalities.
“Cass brings out my passion and adaptability to work with people with various skillsets and motivations,” Oliver explains. “Cass taught me to become a better leader in the business world.”
He hopes that the MBA will allow him to transition from the military into the oil and gas sector, and a mid-level manager position.
London, he adds, is a city that allows Americans to thrive.
“London is suited for Americans because you don’t have to learn a new language, there is a lot of diversity, and there isn’t one group or culture that is peripheral; everyone, from everywhere, is in London.”
A nation state of affairs
Does Brexit worry him at all?
“Not particularly,” he states. “Ideally I’d stay in the UK for between two and five years. I might benefit from staying longer term, so I consider that part of the coin too.”
Lina Rahmanian, a classmate of Oliver’s, admits that the ambiguity around the UK leaving the European Union was a concern, but at the same time it is her goal to return to the US when she graduates.
She worked as a market associate then finance analyst for the Expedia Group for just over three years before moving to London for the MBA.
Lina explains that an MBA was something she had always wanted to do, as she was after career flexibility and the ability to move between industries and roles.
She adds that the care Cass Business School took during the application process to get to know her more and to explain what the school was all about made the difference when it came to pick the right program.
“Because I come from the service industry, how you treat people is very important for me,” she says.
#UStoo
Cass also offers an atmosphere on campus that promotes gender equality in the workplace, and aims to act as a catalyst for the future female leaders of business—Lina herself is the president of the Cass Women in Business Society.
“We get to learn how to work with each other more, and to look at each other as equals. I think it’s a really great starting point,” she says.
“It’s called the Women in Business Society, but my ultimate goal is to include men as well. If men are not supportive then we’re not going to reach the goals that we have.”
These changes, she admits, come slowly. But, the men and women who partake in the society will take the mentorship on offer with them when they graduate—“The next generation,” says Lina (pictured below, right), “will educate the next.”
After the MBA, Lina wants to take her knowledge into the consulting or technology sector. She explains, though, that the diversity of the Cass MBA has given her a wealth of exposure to a variety of industries which has shown her the multiple doors she may walk through after her degree.
London, too, offered her all she was after.
“Location is a huge factor,” she concludes, “It’s [Cass] in the heart of the city, close to major banks, consulting firms, and the tech hub in London.
“It’s so diverse, I could not have chosen a more suitable city for my MBA.”
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
