Umna Arshad

Masters Business Administration (MBA), 2021

What made you choose to study at Edinburgh Business School (EBS), Heriot-Watt University?
I chose EBS due to the flexible, distance-learning option provided for students who want to study part-time. I was working full-time during my study at EBS; therefore, a flexible mode of study was a critical aspect for me when choosing a school. The high rankings of Heriot-Watt University and EBS also played a key role in my decision to study at EBS. Lastly, the progressive and relevant course material was another reason I chose to study an MBA at EBS.

Why did you choose to study an MBA?
My long-term professional goal is to move into a leadership position within my organisation. I enjoy working in a team and motivating others to perform to achieve organisational goals. Furthermore, no organisation or team can work in silo. Therefore, it was natural for me to study an MBA to further enhance my leadership and people management skills, gain financial/economic acumen, and understand the environment that organisations operate in and how a leader can steer that to the advantage of their organisation.       

What's your favourite / most memorable memory of your time as a Heriot-Watt student?
During my first course, some students and I formed a WhatsApp group to study together. The exam for this course was at an exam centre (pre-Covid). During the day of the exam, there were a couple students who recognised each other from studying together through the WhatsApp group. This connection was uplifting, knowing many of us benefitted from studying together.

How would you summarise your time studying an MBA with the Edinburgh Business School?
Rewarding, Challenging, and Insightful.

Tell us about your career since graduating from Heriot-Watt.
Since graduating with an MBA from EBS, I have rotated my career from Engineering to a Sales and Commercial role. Due to my MBA, I was rewarded with an opportunity to join a leadership program with a multinational Oil and Gas organisation. 

How has your Heriot-Watt University education contributed to your success?
I can confidently say that I would not be in my current professional situation if it was not for my Heriot-Watt University education!

How has your MBA benefited you personally?
The many people skills I learned - such as conflict resolution, working in teams etc., contribute directly to my personal life. Moreover, the indirect skills I learned from working full-time and studying a post-graduate degree (such as time management and prioritisation) have had a big impact on my personal and professional life.

What advice do you have for current students?
Do not be overwhelmed – just prioritise your time wisely to manage deadlines, exam study schedules, etc., to gain the most benefit from this degree program. 

What is your lasting impression of Heriot-Watt University?
I would recommend this degree program to anyone!
There is always support available, be it from Administration staff, Professors, and TAs even through the tough times of Covid.  It is apparent that Heriot-Watt cares for its students.

What are your aspirations for the future?
For your career?
To be a leader in my role.
For your local and wider community?
I would like to give back to my community in any way I can through volunteering, charities, being an alumni member at my universities and schools.