Three MBA students from the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management chose Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS) for their international exchange.
Naba Yunas, originally from Pakistan, has pre-MBA experience spanning the banking and non-profit sectors. In Manchester, she took courses such as Business to Business Marketing and Negotiation Skills.
Ori Abara was working in planning and real estate development alongside her MBA in Toronto, but paused her work to join us in Manchester for her exchange. While here, Ori participated in one of our live consultancy projects, the Social Impact project.
Archie is studying the Part-time MBA at Rotman alongside a full-time job as a Senior Data Analyst within the Telecomms industry. Archie took Practical Investing and Venture Capital and Private Equity Electives.
The three students' journeys to Manchester offered immersive coursework, cultural exploration, and transformative connections - reshaping their career perspectives and personal aspirations.
Beyond the classroom: a holistic MBA experience
The exchange has been a journey of personal and professional growth, fuelled by new challenges and opportunities for all the students.
"The MBA encompasses more than just what's taught in a classroom. It's about the people you meet, the competitions, and the experiences that make every day unique," Archie reflected.
Ori echoed these sentiments: "networking with people from all over the world has been the highlight for me. Everyone brings a unique perspective, making learning dynamic and engaging."
Clarity of purpose was key to navigating the MBA experience. "Having a personal 'why' acts as your compass. The journey is demanding, but knowing your purpose helps you stay focused amidst assignments and networking," said Naba.
Why AMBS?
The city's energy and diversity stood out for Naba. "Manchester's spirit of resilience and innovation, combined with the diversity of the students, was irresistible," she shared - adding that learning alongside professionals from varied industries was particularly rewarding.
Archie was captivated by Manchester's unique blend of culture and innovation. For Ori, it was "the programme's high ranking, English-speaking environment, and career opportunities made AMBS the perfect choice."
A vibrant academic and social environment
For Naba, working in diverse teams sharpened her communication and analytical skills. "The programme encourages you to think critically and adapt quickly," she said, noting how the fast-paced environment enhanced her ability to manage challenges.
Ori enjoyed the sense of camaraderie among MBA students and found joy in exploring Manchester itself. "Walking back from campus through the streets of Manchester became a cherished ritual," she shared.
Archie highlighted the hands-on approach of workshops and lectures. "Practicing real-life business cases with students from around the world was an incredible bonding experience," he shared, emphasising the collaborative nature of the programme.
