Andreas Schaefers secured a role at PwC as Technology Consultant for Financial Services, Big Data and Advanced Analytics following his graduation from MSc Operations, Project and Supply Chain Management in 2018. Read about his master’s journey…
Why did you choose to study this master's course at Alliance MBS?
“The chance to study at an English speaking university with such a diverse and international community was the main reason.
“Building upon my undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering, I wanted to widen my skill-set by adding on business skills in operations related disciplines. The degree offered three directions of specialisation and a distinct focus on operations management.”
What were you doing before your MSc?
“Before my MSc at Alliance MBS I studied an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering and an additional degree as an international welding engineer (IWE) in Germany. During this 3 and a half year degree, I had the chance to study one year abroad in Hong Kong at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
“As it is very common and expected in Germany, I did several internships during and after my degrees. I gained my first work experience while working as an intern for the Executive Vice President Operations at a subsidiary of Rolls-Royce Power Systems. After being abroad for one year, I did some research and wrote my undergraduate dissertation at the Fraunhofer Research Society in the field of LEAN management and Industry 4.0.
“Besides these very technology-oriented internships, I also wanted to see a wider range of institutions and so I did another internship in the German parliament (Bundestag) and a private equity fund, focusing on market entry and M&A of European and Chinese firms.”
What were the top 3 highlights of your programme?
“Making friends from all over the world was my absolute highlight. Being in a course with students from around 30 countries and living together for one year in our very international accommodation was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
“The freedom to choose from a very wide range of subjects and the ability to tailor the degree, especially the spring term and during the dissertation, was very helpful to strengthen my profile.
“The guidance and advice from my lecturers, getting the chance to work part-time for one of my lecturers and getting further insights into research and the current attempt at getting my dissertation published are also highlights.”
How has your time at Alliance Manchester Business School helped you in your current role?
"The experience at Alliance MBS helped me get my current job. We were required to prepare many individual and group presentations throughout the course, and this was one of the assessments during the interview process.
"Moreover, as I am recruiting people internationally, the course at Alliance MBS provided me with the necessary skills for handling a global workforce with diverse needs and motivations.
“Without the skills I learned during analytics related subjects and my dissertation in machine learning, I wouldn’t have had the chance to start my current role.”
What advice would you give to those considering studying at Alliance Manchester Business School?
“It’s a unique chance to dive into a very open and intellectual world for at least one year. In my opinion, the biggest mistake would be wasting the opportunity by just staying together with peers and friends from your own country and cultural background. Spending time together with people with such diverse backgrounds opened my eyes and widened my personal horizon.”
Is there any other advice that you’d like to give?
“I personally think finding your career and personal path can be only successful by trying out various roles, disciplines and places. Being abroad in China and the UK, as well as doing internships in various cities, organisations and industries helped me finding out more about myself and meeting so many different people.
“AMBS can be a big playground to find out more about yourself, but it is up to everyone to explore it in their own way.”
