What was your background before starting our Liverpool MBA?
Working in the hospitality industry as a third-generation pizzaiolo I have grown up learning in my family’s businesses and completed a specialization in Neapolitan Pizza through Michelin-recognized Chef Enzo Coccia’s Pizza Consulting in Naples, Italy.
My undergraduate education was in English with a concentration in creative writing from the University of Maine at Machias.
Why did you decide to study for an MBA?
I decided to pursue an MBA because while I have a great deal of culinary and management experience.
What do you feel has been the most rewarding element of the course so far?
The most rewarding element of the course so far has been meeting my professors and classmates. I am surrounded by so many incredible individuals.
My cohort is made up of a variety of different backgrounds, and everyone is so kind and willing to help you in any way they can. I learn so much from each person, both academically and culturally.
What do you do when not studying?
The MBA is an accelerated program and thus studying takes up most of my time when not in lectures. However, when I do have free time I love exploring the city of Liverpool.
From the city centre to the Albert Dock to the many wonderful restaurants, there is always something fun to experience.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of studying for an MBA?
The MBA program is a giant commitment, not only financially but also in terms of time and the amount of work involved. My advice to an applicant would be to first make sure they 100% want to undertake it, as it will ask a great deal of them.
Also, consider taking a quantitative course or two before starting the program, particularly if they have been away from academia for a while, to get off to a good start.
Lastly come in with an open mind, ready to absorb all the different benefits the programme offers!
Why did you choose the Management School?
The University of Liverpool was my dream School and the only one I applied to. I loved the fact that they are triple-accredited, a member of the Russell Group.
The ability to complete their programme in half the time it would require in the United States and the fact that they were very generous with scholarship money was also influenced.
And, of course, Liverpool is one of the world’s most unique cities, so their location was a major selling point.
What have you learned from guest speakers so far?
The guest speaker series is something I look forward to each time. It is so inspiring to meet successful business leaders and alumni!
They bring a mix of practical business advice as well as important mindsets that they have developed throughout their careers.
Combining their lessons with our module coursework has been great for my development.
What skills and knowledge do you feel you have developed?
I have already learned so much in a short period of time. From fundamental skills such as how to interpret a company’s balance sheet or apply market segmentation to a marketing plan, to interpersonal skills aimed at improving my managing style.
What aspects of the programme have you enjoyed most?
The quality of the professors makes each module a pleasure. I have particularly enjoyed modules on managing financial resources and marketing/supply chain management.
Additionally, having the Brett Building exclusively for MBA students has really facilitated learning as well.
Did you receive a scholarship, if so, what impact has receiving a scholarship had on you?
I was fortunate enough to be offered a scholarship. This made it financially attractive to study here, but more than that it signified that the Management School and the University were investing in me.
That was important while making my final decision to earn my degree and motivated me to prove they made the right decision.
What are you enjoying most about living in Liverpool?
Liverpool has quickly become one of my favourite places. It is bursting with history and culture!
My favourite aspect of living here, though, must be the friendliness of the people.
The city has made my transition to the U.K. very smooth and memorable.