When it comes to studying a master’s in the U.K., many international students opt for the likes of London and Oxford. Bradley Grose chose Manchester. The ambitious American explains his decision and shares his experience studying for a master’s at Alliance Manchester Business School.
Manchester is steeped in a history of innovation. It’s a city that has set the agenda, from its days as an industrial pioneer to its status as a modern-day powerhouse of tech and business.
As an old saying goes, “What Manchester does today, the rest of the world does tomorrow.” All of which made it a compelling destination for international master’s student Bradley Grose. Bradley was studying computer science at his home university in the United States. Yet, he decided that he wanted more of a business-oriented approach.
“I had previously studied abroad in the United Kingdom and fell in love with the way that everything worked in the north of England,” recalls Bradley. “So, when I was looking for master’s programs, I wanted to target a school in that region.” (00:26)
After considering programs at various universities, he came across the business master’s programs at the Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS). The AMBS Master’s in Business Analysis & Strategic Management stood out for its blend of in-depth analytics and business management.
He knew he wanted to develop the skills to lead within a multinational organization. What he didn’t know, however, was that he was about to embark on a life-changing journey in one of Europe’s best cities.
For Bradley, the student experience in Manchester was like no other. “There’s always something new to explore … [you’ll find] unique experiences that you wouldn’t have had at your home or university,” says Bradley. “Taking that step out and trying new things [has] been something that I’ve truly enjoyed.” (05:44)
He goes on to explain how the city is teeming with cultural events, with something for everyone. Especially food lovers. “There’s really a restaurant for any type of cuisine you could dream of,” he says. (02:15)
Bradley was also captivated by Manchester’s many coffee shops, as well as the city’s rich historical surroundings. “You could go to a different one every day, and you’d still be finding new places to go. There’s one on campus called Christie’s Bistro, which is in one of these old 1800s buildings … it kind of feels like you’re in some Harry Potter movie,” he enthuses. (06:02)
It’s all part of a student experience that inspires a sense of wonder and instills a better understanding of European cultures.
Research shows that at least 200 different languages are spoken in Manchester. This demonstrates the city’s diverse cultural influences.
“One thing that I found surprising about living in Manchester is how diverse the city is,” says Bradley. “There are different ethnicities [and] different cultures everywhere.” (02:00)
This city’s rich diversity was beneficial from both social and academic perspectives. It enabled him to work with people from different backgrounds and cultures. “It’s definitely helped me grow my social skills of being able to work on a team and gain those experiences that might be impactful [when] working with an international organization,” he explains. (06:53)
At AMBS, students form close relationships with peers from all over the world in class. In addition, the school’s master’s clubs and societies help to cement these bonds.
For a student moving across the Atlantic, it could have been a daunting experience. Yet, as Bradley points out, AMBS made it so much smoother. The school helps students from the very beginning of their academic journey. For Bradley, this began the day he applied to the program, with pre-departure and offer holder webinars.
“Those definitely helped gain a sense of what [goes] on in the city of Manchester, what housing opportunities there might be, what the visa process might be,” he explains. (03:50)
When he arrived, the school quickly helped him settle into student life in Manchester. This help, says Bradley, spanned everything from getting to know the local neighborhood to meeting new friends and preparing for his master’s program.
Manchester’s burgeoning tech and business community makes it ideal to launch a career. What’s more, the city’s business schools provide all the support you need. The AMBS Postgraduate Career Services team offers personalized support for master’s students from the day they arrive. This includes skill-development workshops, one-to-one career coaching, and networking events to help them find a job after graduation.
This support is going a long way towards helping Bradley launch a successful career in the U.K. “I plan to stay in the U.K. and look [for] a managerial consulting role, or some type of strategy consulting [role],” he says. (05:00)
Bradley is looking to combine his tech background with the strategic management and analytical skills he has learned during his master’s. He has plans to work for a top-tier company and make decisions that will shape their future.
A pioneering spirit of bravery and adventure drove Bradley’s decision to study in Manchester. What is his advice for those thinking of doing the same? “Take the leap of faith,” he says. “It’s great to be able to step out of your comfort zone, gain international [exposure], and experience something you won’t be able to in the United States,” he adds. (07:14)
The journey is not without its challenges, of course. However, as Bradley is keen to underline, it’s only by facing these challenges that you begin to evolve.
“It might seem scary at first to travel this far away from your family and friends, but it will be totally worth it in the end,” says Bradley. “You get to learn everything you’re learning through your program, experience a new city and country, and immerse yourself in a culture you’re not previously used to.” (07:25)
As Bradley’s experience demonstrates, Manchester rewards dedication and curiosity. It’s a place where today’s hard work leads to tomorrow’s success.
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