International electives at Cass Business School have proven a hit with their MBA students
In spite of the well-publicized events of Brexit, London continues to retain its status as one of the world’s most globalized cities. The city's top business schools admit that international exposure, whether at home or abroad, does wonders for their MBA cohort.No institution is more aware of this than City University’s Cass Business School, which offers an impressive nine international electives, including their acclaimed new excursion to Cuba, as well as consultancy trips to exotic locations such as Vietnam and Iceland.
Cass students have the chance to visit Silicon Valley to learn about entrepreneurship or digital strategy, can venture on international study tours in China and the UAE, and explore themes from sustainability to strategic marketing in Las Vegas, Cuba, South Africa, and Israel and Palestine. There’s also the London Symposium, which explores the city from an international business perspective.
What’s more, the application process is as easy as choosing a location that interests you, and every effort is made to get students onto the elective they select. There’s even the option to select more than one when designing the second half of your MBA.
We talked to four Cass MBAs about their respective international electives, what sort of specialized knowledge and contacts they gained, and how they benefited from such unique cultural experiences.
Kathleen Edmondson (Full-time MBA) - Former PR Account Manager, Citizen Relations
My experiences on the Innovation & Technology study tour in Israel and Palestine taught me not to pass judgment before reading the full story, and that both sides of the story should be heard.
Israel’s characterization as the "start-up" nation is, from my perspective, very fitting. It is very apparent that Israelis create their companies with the focus on solving a strategic issue that their country or their countries residents' face, which I feel is quite unique.
My impression of Palestinians is that they truly embody innovation, pursuing all avenues and possible solutions to overcome problems. I think because comparatively, they have so little, Palestinians think outside of the box when it comes to facing adversity. It was an illuminating and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
One of the many beautiful beaches to be found on the Israel and Palestine elective
Felix Hieronymus (Full-time MBA) - IT Services Entrepreneur, apreet
During the design thinking elective in Silicon Valley, we visited the Institute of Design at Stanford and learned to apply design thinking in workshops at the SAP innovation center and with the innovation team at Salesforce.
It was a very enriching experience for me, and I gained valuable insights for my MBA dissertation, which I undertook in cooperation with a design thinking consultancy in London.
The most interesting observation I made was that even though the companies in the Valley differ in size and scope, they are all born out of that unique culture of risk-taking forged there in the 1980s.
Lawrence Jewkes (Executive MBA) - Investment Manager, WH Ireland
The Vietnam consultancy trip was a brilliant experience. We were broken into groups and assigned to everything from breweries to banks, airlines to scooter manufacturers. We spent a week working closely with these companies on their strategic issues.
Given the timing of the trip in the context of the degree, I felt it was a brilliant opportunity to put into practice what I’d learned on the Cass MBA.
One of the world's fastest-growing emerging markets, Vietnam provides unique contextual learning
Speaking to business leaders and entrepreneurs in both Israel and Palestine provided unparalleled access to a complex and fascinating region, and was brilliantly organized to ensure we had exposure to a wide range of companies as well as academic institutions. We even had dinner one night at the British Embassy in Tel-Aviv, where we met with venture capital funds and start-up accelerators.
It also provided me with a far better understanding of innovation and how it is crafted by regional dynamics. It has historically been fostered out of hardship, which is certainly the case in that region. That said, it would also have been amazing to visit Silicon Valley and get insights from leaders in the world’s top start-up hub.
Eric Kardonski (Full-time MBA) - Project Manager, Marine Engineers Corporation
Cass’s London Symposium examines how business is done in the city and situates it in a global context. I had the unique opportunity to hear from and interact with an amazing roster of speakers, including the former Lord Mayor of London, the Chairman of PwC, and the first British astronaut.
I also had the opportunity to go to Iceland to consult for Vivio, a video sharing platform catering for student communities, and I was tasked with developing an entry strategy for international markets.
Even though I hope to start my own company, I had no previous experiences with start-ups, so Iceland provided me with a fantastic learning opportunity.
The Israel and Palestine elective gave me the opportunity to visit two fascinating countries and provided unique cultural insights. It also gave us exclusive access to inspiring businesspeople and the projects they’re undertaking, such as the billionaire Bashar al-Masri, who created the first planned city for Palestinians.
In Israel, innovation is driven by a combination of government incentives and military factors which have lured hundreds of venture capitalists. In Palestine though, it is driven by the need to survive and provide. All in all, it was a fascinating place to visit.
Find out more about the Cass Business School MBA here.
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
