Tom Kouloumas MSc International Management

2017-2018

Read what current student Tom has to say about studying at the Business School and living in Southampton

Through this degree, I have had the opportunity to learn so much and increase my understanding of the subject. I was also a member of the Catalyst Challenge last summer which was an absolutely amazing experience!

Why did you choose to come and study at Southampton?

Having got into Southampton through clearing for BSc Biomedical Sciences, I really liked how the University ran, the support services, societies and the city. I decided to stay in Southampton for my postgraduate degree as I am familiar with the city.

What is it like studying here?

I think the student services are great! The 24 hour library is really helpful, the city has everything you need and most places are in walking distance or not far on the bus (which is very affordable). The campus is great, with many different places to eat and hang out with friends. Societies are also a big factor for me as I am a member of Enactus, and the Southampton STAGS American football team. There are so many societies you can join and most of them expect no previous experience, which is great!

What are you enjoying most about your course?

Having a passion for business and wanting to start a career in consultancy, I previously had little understanding and knowledge. Through this degree, I have had the opportunity to learn so much and increase my understanding of the subject. My favourite module was International Marketing. Learning about the marketing mix and actually applying it in different business scenarios has been a really interesting lesson.

Have you taken advantage of any extra opportunities outside of your course?

Whist at the University, I have joined a sports society, become a member of Enactus and I am also a member of the Fish on Toast society. I also participated in the Business Innovation programme, run by the University in concordance with IBM. I was also a member of the Catalyst Challenge last summer which was an absolutely amazing experience!

How do you rate study facilities at the University?

Great! There is a lot of room in the library with quiet study rooms. Room booking is also really good as it means you can book a room with classmates and discuss various issues. Avenue campus is also great as it has large spaces available for students to study.

What have been your Southampton highlights/best experiences so far?

My friends and I rented bikes out in the New Forest and got to explore in the summer which was great. Joining a sports team was great! Having never played American football before, I got to learn a new sport and also made close friends in the process. I also organised a Casino Jazz fundraiser for Enactus to raise money and this gave me invaluable experience I wouldn't have gained had I not joined Enactus.

What is the city of Southampton like to live in?

The city is great with many nice restaurants, tailoring to all kinds of cuisines. Southampton also has great transport links, which makes it really easy to make day trips to Winchester and even London! The nightlife is great, with a range of different events during the week and weekends. There is something for everyone!

How has your time at Southampton helped you to grow as a person?

Living on my own meant i gained a great deal of independence, with the friends I made in halls, which also helped and encouraged me to grow more confident. During my time here, I also learned a lot about myself, what I am passionate about, what career I want to get into and also how I process, learn and take in new information.

What are your plans and/or ambitions after you graduate?

I would like to get a graduate job or any job in consultancy, particularly managerial consultancy. I would also like to go travelling for a few months hopefully before starting my career.

Are you interested in our MSc International Management degree? Visit our course page