Students should lower their expectations says Cass Business School careers manager, but many of them disagree
This year's MBA graduates will find it tougher to make a sought-after career “triple jump” according to a senior career manager at City University's Cass Business School.The definition of a post-MBA triple jump, according to Cass’s Caitriona Conway, is when an MBA student makes three jumps in one go post-graduation: “Changing to a more favored location, switching job sectors and moving into a different function.”
However, the cooling job market has made the triple jump a lot harder than it was a couple of years back. Conway advises students to think long-term: “You need to be equipped as much as possible, because you can't make all three jumps in one go. So be realistic.”
Cass Business School's Caitriona Conway, Business Development Manager for Careers
Some current MBA students remain optimistic about making the triple jump. The quality of a summer internship plays a big part in your chances of success says Abhishek Banerjee, an Indian student from Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University: “I think having internships made us very, very happy.”
Banerjee is doing an internship at DSM Venturing, a Netherlands-based firm that invests in start-ups in the Life Sciences and Materials Sciences sectors. The 28-year-old is working as an investment strategy associate in the firm's branch in Delhi, India. He trained originally in computer science and worked for Oracle and Canon before coming to Rotterdam for an MBA.
Though some aspects of his new role are challenging, particular cold-calling high-end business clients, he is looking forward to changing his function from business consulting to investment strategy.
“The bottom line of any good business is to add economic value to the organization without compromising human ethics. Hence, as long as one is able to highlight relevant skills... these kinds of jumps can be made,” he says.
When his internship with DSM Venturing ends, Banerjee is set to go on exchange to Duke University, where the medical school runs classes on commercializing and sustaining small businesses.
Hussam Masri, a former product manager for a leading international technology vendor, is one of the lucky few to have made the triple jump. Masri originally trained as an engineer in his native Jordan and worked there until he came to Cass Business School in London.
Having graduated with an MBA this summer, the 26-year-old has the option of leaving his previous engineering function to join an MBA leadership scheme at a healthcare multinational elsewhere in the Middle East.
Of the three jumps, Masri says the industry jump is the hardest of all: “Because you'll not be using the vertical knowledge that you had before, your next role can be more challenging.”
The Chevening Scholarship-holder, who is part- funded by the King of Jordan Fund for Development, has ambitions to make another triple jump in the future. Masri is determined to take part in the social and political development of his country and envisions setting up a Jordan-based firm specializing in social entrepreneurship projects some day.
However, a triple jump may not interest everyone. Charles Xue, who is studying Risk Management and Financial Engineering at Imperial College Business School, reveals he has never heard of the term career “triple jump” and doesn’t consider it a “serious life goal”.
Xue, 25, from Shenyang, China, plans to “try his luck” in the UK after next month’s graduation but “probably will settle in China in the long-run”. His dream job would be working in a “world-leading bank as a risk-management specialist,” and Xue has little interest in moving into a different job sector or function: “To me, every big bank is pretty much the same.”
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
