For Eleni Manioudaki, choosing to study BA (Hons) Business Management at Metropolitan College in Greece, a collaborative partner of Queen Margaret University, was a clear-cut decision. She was attracted by the University’s strong academic reputation and the opportunity to gain an internationally recognised degree, while studying within a supportive local environment.
Why did you choose to study with one of QMU's collaborative partner institutions, and what attracted you to the course?
I chose to study with QMU because of the university’s international recognition and the opportunity to earn a degree with a strong academic foundation. The course particularly attracted me because it successfully combined theoretical knowledge with practical application and was closely aligned with the demands of the job market.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
What I enjoyed most was the journey itself. It was a four-year period full of adjustments and challenges, unfolding during the pandemic and coinciding with significant personal changes. Alongside being a student and a working woman, I also became a mother of two children. This experience gave deeper meaning to my studies and played a decisive role in both my personal and professional development.
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting?
Yes, I found the case studies and research projects based on real-life examples particularly engaging. These activities helped me truly understand how theory can be applied in practice.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this course?
I would encourage them to approach the programme with an open mind and patience, viewing it as an evolving journey rather than a rigid, predetermined path. They should take advantage of every opportunity for participation and not be discouraged by challenges, as the programme can offer valuable skills and clear professional direction.
What’s your ‘top tip’ for making the most of being a student and what was the most valuable lesson you learned?
My top tip is to participate in every competition, individual or group research project, and volunteer activity, and to attend every additional theoretical or practical seminar offered during your studies. Even if there is no immediate recognition or award, the experience gained - exposure to the job market, organising research or projects, and building a strong professional network - is the real “prize” and pays off significantly in the long term.
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation?
My life after graduation is completely different from my life before starting my studies. Previously, I was searching for my professional path; now, I am already walking it with greater confidence and stability. My studies gave me direction, a clear goal, and the reassurance that I am standing on solid ground.
