Progress to Postgrad: Julian

Posted on: 19 August 2025 by Richard Finch in Class of 2024

Julian Archer holds a BA in Geography and is now advancing his expertise with an MSc in Sustainable Business at the University of Manchester’s Alliance Business School.

How did you hear about your course?

I knew I wanted to do a master's since Geography is quite a broad subject, and I came across the course simply by exploring my options. I saw a master's in Sustainable Business as a logical step to bridge my theoretical understanding of the environment and society at Liverpool with a more corporate and business-oriented lens. I think it gives me the academic rigour to apply complex frameworks to real-world sustainability challenges that pose both opportunities and threats for modern-day business.

How did you get to where you are now?

The onboarding process was fairly simple; you apply directly to the University without going through UCAS. I got my offer relatively quickly but that was down to applying early - there were only 22 spaces for the 600-odd course applicants. The lecturers at Liverpool were great at helping me communicate my motivations and past experiences for the application process in the format of a personal statement and the Geography department itself set up a month-long placement with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority which was definitely attractive to the postgrad admissions at Manchester so there's plenty of help out there if you proactively look for it.

Your favourite thing about your current course?       

We're being lectured by the very academics that I was referencing 2/3 years ago at Liverpool which is great fun but also being around people almost twice my own age who have had 10+ years of experience in banking/ consultancy/ entrepreneurship - you name it, in both public and private sectors has been incredibly valuable to us younger students and of course, it builds connections and widens your professional network.

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

I wish I could say it's light work and all smooth sailing but if I did, I'd be lying. Keeping on top of the workload whilst trying to form networks and apply to roles for after graduation can be difficult to balance. Working out your next steps is a part-time job and the earlier you start the easier it is! The key is to stay organised and manage your time properly while of course having a great time.

Could you share one tip you wish you knew before you started

Say yes to everything! Your degree is only the start line so take every opportunity to gain experience and broaden your understanding of something. Growth lives outside the walls of what you already know and the more challenges you choose to face, the faster you learn. Then, you'll simply be ahead of the curve compared to the rest of your cohort which instantly gives you an advantage.

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