{"id":9687,"date":"2026-01-28T13:58:55","date_gmt":"2026-01-28T13:58:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.manchester.ac.uk\/humanities-blog\/?p=9687"},"modified":"2026-01-28T14:03:25","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T14:03:25","slug":"yash-kant-msc-business-analysis-and-strategic-management-2024-alumni-interview","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sites.manchester.ac.uk\/humanities-blog\/2026\/01\/28\/yash-kant-msc-business-analysis-and-strategic-management-2024-alumni-interview\/","title":{"rendered":"Yash Kant – MSc Business Analysis and Strategic Management 2024 – Alumni Interview"},"content":{"rendered":"

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In this edition, we\u2019re excited to feature the journey of a former international student Yash who graduated from his MSc Business Analysis and Strategic Management (MSc) in 2024 and is currently working as a Commercial Banking Graduate on a graduate scheme at Natwest in Manchester.<\/p>\n

What was your approach to securing a job in the UK? What steps did you take?<\/strong><\/p>\n

My approach was quite structured. I started by identifying the sectors and roles that aligned with both my academic background and work experience – mainly consulting and finance. Then I tailored my CV and cover letters for each application instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach. I also reached out to alumni and professionals on LinkedIn to understand the hiring timelines and what firms actually look for in grads. At the same time, I made sure my story was consistent\u202f- tying my past experience in analytics and strategy to the skills needed in my current role.<\/p>\n

What challenges did you come across?<\/strong><\/p>\n

The main challenge was the uncertainty of the job market for international students -especially with sponsorships and tight timelines. There were moments when things felt stagnant even after multiple interviews. Balancing dissertation work and job applications at the same time was also tough.<\/p>\n

Did you face any rejections when applying, and how did you stay motivated or adapt your approach?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Yes, quite a few. Some rejections came after final rounds, which honestly stings the most. What helped me was treating each rejection as data – I\u2019d note what I could\u2019ve done better, and refine my next application or interview answer. I also made a conscious effort to take breaks and not make job hunting my entire identity; that kept me sane through the process.<\/p>\n

What tips would you share with current MSc students about preparing to apply for graduate schemes, especially things you wish you\u2019d known earlier?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Start early, especially for UK grad schemes – most open in September. Have a strong sense of narrative: why you, why this role, why this company. Practice video interviews; they make or break many applications. Build small habits early on – keeping an Excel tracker, reading about companies weekly, networking with alumni – it all compounds. And most importantly, don\u2019t panic if you don\u2019t get something immediately; sometimes the right opportunity aligns at the right time, not the earliest time.<\/p>\n

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