Andrew Bloxam
"It was not only the basics such as CVs, LinkedIn, job search etc, but the additional coaching on soft skills, such as public speaking and presenting, that was particularly useful."
Course
Master of Business AdministrationGraduation year
2018Andrew Bloxam, Senior Investment Manager at Foresight Group, shares his experiences studying for a Full-time MBA at Surrey.
Why did you choose an MBA at Surrey University?
I wanted a full-time MBA close to but not in London and, with the University of Surrey’s reputation, the programme at Surrey Business School seemed to offer excellent value for money.
How do you plan to implement what you learned in class at work?
Topics such as digital platforms, innovation and consumer behaviour will be really useful in screening opportunities, and leadership and organisational behaviour will particularly help in being a director on investee company boards.
What is the most useful skill you have learned during your time on the MBA programme so far?
The most useful information I’ve learned is actually about how I contribute in and react to different types of challenges. By working with different people, from different backgrounds on many different topics, I have learned more about my strengths and weaknesses and how I need to adapt to get more from situations in future. Being better able to read and adapt to situations in future, I hope, will allow me to be a more effective leader.
Also it was not only the basics such as CVs, LinkedIn, job search etc, but the additional coaching on soft skills, such as public speaking and presenting, that was particularly useful. I was more confident in my interviews, I gained a job offer I’m excited about, and I believe I can enjoy and be successful in my next role, which is ultimately why I chose to do an MBA.
What new opportunities have you gained being in Surrey?
Having the chance to work with companies on team projects outside of my past experience was challenging and interesting. For instance, a group project in the advanced consumer behaviour module involved applying learnings from class on the principles of persuasion to the health and safety communications of Solvay, the international chemical company. It was really satisfying to provide some useful insights in an area that had been unfamiliar before taking the module.
The careers support provided as part of the MBA was really helpful. From the outset, the careers adviser reminded us not to lose sight of our possible new roles after the MBA. This helped me keep the academic teachings in perspective, and my discussions and assignments relevant to my career.
