It was the beginning of 2006 when I felt the need to enhance my skills. By then, I had completed my bachelor’s programe in commerce and worked for Jet airport services and Singapore Airlines in Ahmedabad for a year-and-a-half. I decided to pursue a postgraduate certificate course in tourism at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow. After almost 11 years in Glasgow, I am glad I made that decision.
After completing the programme in 2007, I secured a job at one of the best travel consolidators in the U.K.
While working in the travel industry, I came across some data mining and database management work which was quite new to me. I found it really interesting, so I learned more about it on the Internet.
Branching out
This was the moment when I found my way forward to a new career. I started looking for the best database management master’s course in Glasgow. I looked at four different universities in the city, and couldn’t find a better place than the University of Strathclyde. I received a prompt response for my application and joined the the MSc Information Management programme.
The course includes subjects such as database and web development, data analytics, business analytics and information system architecture, among others. The most interesting part of the MSc programme is the fantastic opportunity to work on group projects. For information systems architecture, business analysis and project management classes, I was asked to undertake a group project where one is assigned to a group and given the chance to work with fellow students from different nationalities and work cultures.
These group projects helped me improve my collaboration skills which are important in the IT industry.
The MSc also offers an optional industrial placement for three months during summer. This gives you hands-on experience in the information technology industry in the U.K. and provides a platform for future job hunting, too.
Once you complete your summer industrial placement, you can proceed with your dissertation. The university has strong industry and business links.
Another good thing about the university is that it is centrally-located and within walking distance to many lively places in Glasgow. Amenities such as shops, restaurants and pubs are located nearby.
University of Strathclyde is the complete package if you are looking to pursue a career in information management. After completing my MSc in August 2017, I will have several exciting career options as a database developer/administrator, data analyst, database/information system architect, web developer, e-commerce developer, cyber security analyst and business analyst.
Bhaumik Nayak is studying MSc Information Management at University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, U.K.
