Ho Lam Chung (Caspar): international student profile

Caspar came to study at Manchester from Hong Kong as an undergraduate student, before continuing on to his MSc Business Analysis and Strategic Management with our Alliance Manchester Business School. As part of his course he is currently undertaking a client-facing project. He has found that the skills he has learnt over the past few years are enabling him to feel confident in his work and to look forward to his future career.

“Alliance Manchester Business School is really strong in terms of its reputation and network, with close links to industry. One of the main strengths of my programme is the client-facing project – an extremely practical part of the programme. Students have an opportunity to work with a real business organisation, in order to provide the company with business consulting services.

“This is something really unique and special that students may not be able to find elsewhere.  I’m working in a real business environment and face various challenges just like a normal employee – it is going to add a lot of value.

“I’ve not only gained extensive academic and theoretical knowledge from my course but also other skills like teamwork and organisation, which are all essential for securing a job after graduation. The University also provides us with career consulting services, where we can receive professional feedback for CVs, personal statements and cover letters. I feel I’m well supported, and discussions are structured in a way to guide me to think, rather than giving me the answer – which is a learning process I really appreciate.

“Manchester always gives me a warm feeling. I think that’s because of the people here. When I first arrived in the campus, everyone – including staff and student ambassadors – was so welcoming. I was invited to join a peer mentoring session in which second and third-year students shared their experiences in Manchester, which helped me to get settled quickly. I became a mentor after finishing my first year of study – the experience was extremely positive.

“I am currently working part-time as a team leader for the telephone campaign in the International Office of the University. We contact international students holding offers of study at the University and encourage them to ask any questions that they may have. I started as a calling assistant and developed advanced communication skills from the numerous practices. I was promoted to team leader and have taken on more responsibilities.

“I also joined Enactus when I was in my second year of study as an undergraduate student. I worked with a local charity in southern Manchester called Carisma, as a student consultant. The project was extremely exciting as I got involved extensively in the hands-on work, such as analysing the charity’s performance, and predicting the future market movement – which allowed me to come up with solutions for the client. The experience was truly rewarding, as I could empower those people in need and improve their lives.

“At the moment, working on my client-facing project, I am using all the skills I have learnt so far. I’m in a really good position to perform as a business consultant. Afterwards, I’ll start looking for a job for when I graduate – it will be a busy time, but I’m confident everything will go well!”