Student Blog Collection

Starbucks, NAIC Cafe University of Warwick

Welcome back! The previous post (Part 1Link opens in a new window) consisted all about managing the week long lectures and how to start and effectively write a PMA. But that's not all that will need to be tackled. This Part 2 contains strategies that you could follow to select a project and for tacking job interviews admist lectures.

How to select a project without having any background knowledge?

We were introduced to choose our project on the first month of our course. It sure was overwhelming but with little bit of strategy and research, it is possible to choose a topic of interest.

· Firstly, it is useful to select the project as soon as possible as the competition between WMG students for one project that you might be interested will be high.

· Secondly, Shortlist interesting projects and evaluate them according to your level of interest , feasibility and future career goals.

· Thirdly, approach the shortlisted supervisors one by one for interviews and display your ability and reason for interest on the selected project. Also use the

opportunity to evaluate your connection and suitability with the supervisor.

· Finally, when satisfied with the interview , apply for one project and wait for the response to apply for the next preferred project (As you could get

allocated to the first project you apply). It is also essential to note your preference of supervisor – external or internal.

What are the interview questions to ask at the first project supervisor meeting?

1. Discuss the overall research objective of the project and clarify their expectations and viewpoint to confirm if it aligns with your aim.

2. Discuss their availability and how the intend to provide supervision such as through online/offline meetings, weekly updates, monthly face to face meetings.

3. If there is a plan in mind, consider the methodology - qualitative or quantitative approach to be used in the project and receive their feedback.

4. Ask technical questions to understand their expertise, previous experiences and projects and their affiliation to the selected topic in order to plan where they can provide their highest involvement.

How to handle job interviews and other- non-academic activities during lectures?

In simple words, with determination and hard work and in detail, timing your schedule and dedicating at least 2 hours daily or 4-5 hours weekly in applying, responding to video interviews, submitting psychometric tests, preparing for interviews and assessment centres. This allocated time depends on your high priority activities and deadlines and thus being flexible with tasks throughout the day but making sure all the tasks are completed will help progress each day.

The course is structured to provide ample break in between so getting the most of that time will benefit in the long run. As it’s a one year course, it is expected to be an intensive year, but it is not necessary to get burned out in the process. Focus on taking necessary breaks when needed and binge watch a Netflix series if interested, spend few days to do anything other than work and also explore Coventry. It freshens your mind and keeps you on track before your next module.

Welcome to Warwick and have a productive first term at WMG :)

Janani Alagarsamy

MSc Supply Chain and Logistics Management