Global Experiences

I thought one year at 51�Թ�� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

Khadijah Dowin — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:39:01 +0000

I thought one year at 51�Թ�� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

Khadijah Dowin Thu, 06/02/2025 - 10:39

12 March 2026 Student blog

I thought one year at 51�Թ�� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

The Extended Global Exchange at 51�Թ�� offered Frank Yang the chance to develop his technical business knowledge and immerse himself fully in a new academic and cultural environment.

21 January 2026 Alumni

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Student blog

We believe that a Master’s degree at 51�Թ�� Business School should be flexible, enriching and a chance for students to immerse themselves in environments that they might not otherwise have access to. That is why we offer the Extended Term as an option, allowing students to extend their programme duration to 16 months to commit to a longer Work Placement or Global Exchange.

For Frank Yang, a recent MSc in Management (MiM)* graduate, the Extended Global Exchange was the perfect opportunity to explore technical business roles, deepen his knowledge and immerse himself fully in a new academic and cultural environment.

Completing a full term at one of our partner institutions in Madrid, Frank was able to immerse himself more intentionally in this global learning environment, creating a richer, more transformative Master’s experience. He completed his Master’s at 51�Թ�� feeling confident and equipped with the knowledge to tackle tech-oriented business roles. In the below blog, Frank shares his experience on the exchange in his own words.

*previously called MSc International Management or MSc Management

Pivoting careers through 51�Թ��

I initially moved to London for my undergraduate degree in Educational Psychology at 18. As I progressed through my studies, I realised that I wanted to pivot into the technology sector and take on some more tech-heavy business roles. This is what drew me to 51�Թ��’s MSc in Management (MiM) programme for my Master’s studies. The cutting-edge ecosystem and strong reputation in STEM-related disciplines felt like the ideal environment to support this transition.

Supporting my career goals with global opportunities

From the very start of my Master’s, it became clear that there were numerous ways that I could tailor my learning to suit my career goals. During Induction Week, the Extended Term, and specifically the Extended Global Exchange, was highlighted during a conversation with the Global Student Life Manager. Having lived in Beijing, Singapore and London, this immersive experience presented a chance for me to expand my horizons further.

Practically, the Extended Term advanced my graduation timeline, enabling me to access a broader pool of internship opportunities for my Work Placement. I leveraged this opportunity to try out more technical business roles, allowing me to test and refine my career assumptions as someone seeking to pivot between fields.

Researching partner institutions

After expressing my interest in the Extended Global Exchange, the Business School provided a well-structured website with detailed information on each partner institution, including brochures and contact points. This gave me a comprehensive overview of the available opportunities and helped me shortlist potential destinations early on.

The exchange team also maintained an open-door policy. Booking calls was extremely straightforward and staff were consistently responsive and transparent. Any unanswered questions, such as exchange timing details, were clarified as soon as confirmed information became available. This allowed me to evaluate my top choices thoroughly and with confidence.

Choosing IE Business School in Madrid

Specifically, I chose to undertake the exchange at 51�Թ��’s partner institution, IE Business School. There were several reasons why I chose this institution, including its beautiful Madrid location, its growing reputation in digital innovation, finance and entrepreneurship, and its focus on highly applied pedagogy, which is a personal interest of mine after studying education. Having also studied Spanish since middle school, it’s long been a wish of mine to live in Spain, so I had to go for it.

The most decisive step was a call organised with the Global Exchange staff at IE Business School. The session provided clarity on academic structure, course delivery and student life. The insights shared during that conversation ultimately confirmed that it was the right fit for me.

Applying MSc in Management (MiM) learnings to a new academic environment

From the outset, my studies on the MSc in Management (MiM) programme set me up for success on the exchange. As a highly international cohort, I worked in diverse teams at 51�Թ��, which trained me to communicate effectively across cultures and different working styles. Being able to navigate multicultural environments was invaluable at IE Business School, where classrooms were similarly global and collaborative.

Academically, the technical grounding and applied problem solving on my programme translated directly to the classroom environment at IE Business School. Concepts and approaches developed during 51�Թ��’s Marketing Analytics elective gave me the confidence to contribute meaningfully to IE’s FinTech module, especially around applying machine learning algorithms to emerging financial technologies. Bringing this knowledge into group work at IE Business School sparked engaging in-class discussions and added depth to our projects.

Together with my 51�Թ�� classmate, Umang, who was also on the exchange at IE, we achieved the top score in the class.

Representing 51�Թ�� in a global competition

A personal highlight for me was attending the Tech Venture Bootcamp by the IE School of Science and Technology, a university-wide start-up competition. We formed teams on the spot, defined users and pain points, devised business strategies, developed a technical product and pitched in 10 days. I joined the team as the developer, as I wanted to try something new, and learnt how to build a full data engineering pipeline. This was the perfect learning opportunity to extend the skills I had developed at the Business School.

While we did not win the grand prize, we were a finalist for the Sustainability Award out of 20 teams. I made great friends that I keep in touch with, and with sharp contributions, I hope we represented 51�Թ�� in a positive manner.

Academic and cultural growth in Madrid

Beyond the curriculum, the exchange offered moments that challenged how I learn and engage. One standout moment was when a senior leader from McKinsey & Company came to deliver a guest lecture. Through clarity and presence, he demonstrated what elite communication at the highest level looks like during a live Q&A.

Living and studying in Madrid for an extended period also pushed me to adapt culturally. I joined a mixed martial arts gym in the local community with my course mate and regularly took the opportunity to develop my conversational Spanish skills.

The benefits of an Extended Global Exchange from my experience

For me, the defining feature of this initiative was its duration. Studying for a full academic term allows students to move beyond the novelty and tourist phase and genuinely experience daily life in another country. It creates the space to establish important routines, build deeper friendships and engage meaningfully in academics.

Whilst short-term exchanges compress the experience into a tight window, a full-term exchange offered me a chance to find a more balanced rhythm. I was able to focus on my learning, whilst also integrating into everyday life in Madrid. My experience wasn’t a rushed one, but a chance to intentionally live an international study experience.

As a result, it has significantly enhanced both the value and enjoyment of my Master’s experience. Not only was I able to fulfil my dream of living in Spain whilst continuing to develop specialised knowledge in finance and technology but also see how the knowledge built on the MSc in Management (MiM) programme can be applied to a global learning environment.

Enhancing my CV with the Extended Global Exchange

The exchange expanded both my technical exposure and project portfolio. The 51�Թ�� ecosystem is rife with opportunities, so by extending my studies with the Global Exchange, it meant that I had more time to dive deeper into my areas of interest.

As a result, I now have tangible technical projects that demonstrate my ability to operate at the intersection of technology and business. In addition, developing conversational Spanish strengthens my international profile and supports long-term global mobility.

Together, the Extended Global Exchange enhances both the depth and breadth of my CV, complementing the strong analytical foundation developed during my studies at the Business School.

Going forward, I plan on exploring tech-oriented business roles such as AI transformation or product management, utilising everything I’ve learnt across both 51�Թ�� and IE.

Why you should consider an Extended Global Exchange

This is almost a risk-free opportunity to explore somewhere new in a fully immersive manner. You should definitely consider an Extended Global Exchange if you are:

Naturally curious and open to new environments
Willing to step outside of your familiar routines
Intentional about immersing yourself in the local culture.

Approaching the exchange with openness and flexibility will lead to both a rewarding academic experience and a fulfilling personal one.

51�Թ�� Business School did an all-around brilliant job in making the whole experience extremely smooth and enjoyable, including helping to make visa arrangements. To be extremely frank (no pun intended), this was a top highlight of my life thus far … life is short - say yes when you can.

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Frank Yang, an MSc in Management (MiM) student, reflects on his experience on the Extended Global Exchange in Madrid

7 minute read

My Executive MBA International Residency experience: Doing Business with China

Rebecca Pike — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:38:42 +0000

My Executive MBA International Residency experience: Doing Business with China

Rebecca Pike Wed, 20/11/2024 - 16:38

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Student blog

Stuart Beards, Executive MBA alum (2023) reflects on his experience on our one-week residency in China. The purpose of this residency is to enable students to appreciate what it takes to do business there, to work with Chinese companies and to develop supply chains. Stuart shares his key takeaways from the trip and offers advice to Executive MBA students embarking on the residencies.

International residency recap

The week-long residency at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School was an unforgettable experience. From engaging lectures to eye-opening site visits, the international residency provided me with the opportunity to explore the intricacies of operating an international business in China. Standout moments for me included site visits to ByteDance, BGI Group, and Guangzhou Xiaopeng Automotive, offering valuable insights into the dynamic business environment in China. Additionally, the residency featured an overnight stay in Shenzhen, China, providing us with the chance to witness classroom learnings in action.

Overall, my international residency in China was more than a learning experience, it was a transformative journey that expanded my global perspective, enriched my network, and left an unforgettable mark on my professional and personal development.

Developing a global perspective

The residency significantly broadened my understanding of global business and leadership. Immersed in the vibrant Chinese business landscape, it deepened my awareness of Chinese culture, providing a crucial cultural context for future global engagements. Additionally, the experience enhanced my knowledge of the Chinese economy, revealing its complexities and future growth prospects. The insights gained into strategies for external companies engaging with the Chinese market and suppliers were invaluable, offering practical knowledge that I believe will greatly benefit my career. Overall, the residency provided me with a well-rounded perspective essential for navigating the complexities of international business and leadership.

Key highlights

One standout session was the lecture by Professor Howard Lam, offering insights into how foreign companies access the China market. Professor Lam's wealth of experience at P&G, McDonald’s, and Coca-Cola brought marketing theory to life, connecting classroom learnings to real-world applications. Practical examples from Professor Lam's professional career also offered insights into the cultural awareness needed when operating a business in China.

The second notable lecture focused on Emerging Technology in China, presented by Dr. Toa Charm. This session provided an in-depth review of major technology players in China compared to their US counterparts, illustrating the momentum and strength of China’s Tech Start-up Ecosystem. Dr Charm’s personal insights from his senior management positions in business was a key takeaway for me.

Apart from the educational experiences, my most significant memory was strengthening friendships with classmates and immersing myself in the unique business culture of Hong Kong and China. It was not just a professional journey but a personal one, fostering lasting connections.

Exploring Hong Kong

The decision to travel early allowed me to explore Hong Kong and China with fellow EMBA22 students. CUHK curated an exceptional itinerary, seamlessly blending business and cultural experiences. From the vibrant streets of Hong Kong to the tech hubs of Shenzhen, the trip offered an all-inclusive view of China's diverse landscape.

Standout activities in Hong Kong included hiking up Victoria Peak, immersing myself in the vibrant markets, and visiting Tian Tan Buddha via a glass-floor cable car! In China, the key activities included a well-organised cultural tour along with exploring Shenzhen.

Advice to Executive MBA students

Seize the opportunity fully. Go early, stay late. Immerse yourself not only in the business aspect but also in the local culture. Be open to new ideas, diverse ways of working, and embrace the trip as a chance for both personal and professional growth.

Overall, my international residency in China was more than a learning experience, it was a transformative journey that expanded my global perspective, enriched my network, and left an unforgettable mark on my professional and personal development. As we continue to navigate an interconnected world, these insights will undoubtedly shape my approach to international business.

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My Global Immersion and Global Exchange journey at 51�Թ��

Rebecca Pike — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:04:03 +0000

My Global Immersion and Global Exchange journey at 51�Թ�� Rebecca Pike Mon, 22/04/2024 - 15:04

Global experiences are an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in business settings, facilitating both personal and professional growth. They’re an invaluable part of the learning experience, equipping students with the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to succeed as a business leader in this interconnected world.

Elisabeth Zlatkin, a MSc Management (now re-purposed as MSc in Management (MiM)) student from Germany shares her experience undertaking both a Global Immersion and Global Exchange during her time at 51�Թ�� Business School.

“When applying to 51�Թ�� Business School, I carefully considered all of the international opportunities available to me. The international cohort and global network at 51�Թ�� is invaluable, and the immersion and exchange modules offer practical, hands-on experiences and the chance to study in different international contexts, enhancing my learning and broadening my global perspective.”

Global Immersion: Singapore

Our Global Immersion modules are week-long international experience trips that includes visits to companies representing a diverse range of sectors. They provide an opportunity for students to travel across the world and gain a unique perspective on global business practices.

This year, our MSc Management cohort explored Singapore as a Smart City, looking at how local innovations make it unique. Below, Elisabeth tells us a little more about the week.

We had the opportunity to speak to many exciting professionals; one of them was Chris de Lavigne, a partner at Deloitte, who revealed how Singapore evolved from a fishing village to a global energy hub, emphasising sustainability through district cooling systems, solar panels, and underground infrastructure. We also met many start-up founders and innovation hubs and understood the infrastructure for emerging start-ups.

The experience broadened my understanding of global industry trends and the importance of public-private partnerships in innovative city initiatives. I built a strong network with industry leaders and peers, which has been instrumental in my professional growth.

Exposure to Singapore’s dynamic business environment honed my leadership and strategic thinking skills, preparing me for any future challenges I may face in my career.

Our Global Immersion 2024 cohort in Singapore

Global Exchange: Paris and Switzerland

Over a one-month period, Elisabeth undertook a Global Exchange at both HEC France and EHL Switzerland, focusing on Luxury Hospitality Management.

New challenges

There were over 200 international students from around the world participating in various programmes at HEC. Studying abroad meant that I was navigating a new environment outside of my comfort zone.

Being immersed in a new and international environment, meeting new professionals, and learning new things resulted in a steep learning curve and prepared me well for the future steps in my career.

The small class size on my exchange helped foster a close-knit community. I learned so much from my peers, gaining international insights into luxury hospitality management from like-minded individuals.

My personal highlights

The Global Exchange has made me more open-minded. I had the opportunity to meet so many incredible people. It reinforced that networking is one of the most essential skills in the world of business. The connections I made and the insights I gained during this experience are invaluable.

A highlight was all the interesting conversations I had during my time in Paris and Lousanne. Meeting professionals from different fields sheds a different light on the same topic, making it much more interesting to discuss.

Learning about both the operational and financial aspects of the hotel industry was incredibly insightful. It gave me a deeper understanding of the different international practices and the complexities involved in managing luxury properties.

Embracing opportunities outside of my learning

This was my first time living in a dorm, and the EHL dorms exceeded all of my expectations with their amazing amenities and facilities. The first days are the ones where you create those long-lasting friendships through all the incredible experiences you get to have together. I was the only German on my course, and our class was wonderfully diverse, with no nationality repeated.

Social events were planned by both course management and the students themselves that enriched the overall experience. Every night, we had an activity ranging from BBQs at the lake to wine tasting sessions.

Choosing 51�Թ�� Business School

Before applying to 51�Թ�� Business School, I spent a lot of time browsing through the modules, electives, societies, career services and international exposures offered to students.

This was when I decided that should I get accepted, I would apply to the Global Immersion trip and the Global Exchange module, as I knew these would be once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Having been accepted to both, I cherish these experiences the most.

While London is my favourite city, I wanted to gain international exposure during my master’s programme. These experiences are invaluable—they not only lead to new friendships but also broaden your horizons and deepen your understanding of specific topics.

Growth happens outside your comfort zone. These global learning opportunities have been an unforgettable part of my learning, fuelling significant personal and professional growth.

16 September 2024

Explore our MSc in Management (MiM) programme

Global Experiences

I thought one year at 51�Թ��� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

I thought one year at 51�Թ��� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

I thought one year at 51�Թ��� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

Alper Barut (MSc Management 2008)

Meet the Management Masters' Class of 2026

Pivoting careers through 51�Թ���

Supporting my career goals with global opportunities

Researching partner institutions

Choosing IE Business School in Madrid

Applying MSc in Management (MiM) learnings to a new academic environment

Representing 51�Թ��� in a global competition

Academic and cultural growth in Madrid

The benefits of an Extended Global Exchange from my experience

Enhancing my CV with the Extended Global Exchange

Why you should consider an Extended Global Exchange

Find our more about extended term opportunities

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Frank Yang, an MSc in Management (MiM) student, reflects on his experience on the Extended Global Exchange in Madrid

My Executive MBA International Residency experience: Doing Business with China

My Executive MBA International Residency experience: Doing Business with China

Developing as a strategic leader through 51�Թ���’s Executive MBA Leadership Journey retreat

The ultimate guide to choosing a part-time MBA at 51�Թ���

Championing women in leadership with the Inspiring Women – Executive MBA Scholarship

International residency recap

Developing a global perspective

Key highlights

Exploring Hong Kong

Advice to Executive MBA students

Explore Executive MBA

Request an MBA Brochure

Admissions

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My Global Immersion and Global Exchange journey at 51�Թ���

Global Immersion: Singapore

Global Exchange: Paris and Switzerland

New challenges

My personal highlights

Embracing opportunities outside of my learning

Choosing 51�Թ��� Business School

I thought one year at 51�Թ�� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

I thought one year at 51�Թ�� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

I thought one year at 51�Թ�� was enough – until I discovered the Extended Term

Pivoting careers through 51�Թ��

Representing 51�Թ�� in a global competition

Developing as a strategic leader through 51�Թ��’s Executive MBA Leadership Journey retreat

The ultimate guide to choosing a part-time MBA at 51�Թ��

My Global Immersion and Global Exchange journey at 51�Թ��

Choosing 51�Թ�� Business School