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Andrew Jones

Andrew Jones

Fulltime; Graduated 1989

Andrew Jones
A great place to study. A great programme. Informative, educational. A name with a reputation. Always at the forefront.

What led you to choose to do an MBA and why Strathclyde?

I had been working in industrial chemistry largely in South Africa since graduating from my first degree. I had reached a point where I needed a new challenge, a new direction. My father had completed an MBA at Aston in the 70s and, on hearing my desire for something new, suggested an MBA. This sounded like the perfect springboard, so I researched business schools to see what their offerings were. It just so happened that there was an article at that time in a Sunday newspaper listing the Top 5 Business Schools in the UK. Strathclyde was in the Top 5. I knew and liked Glasgow from a previous early life in Falkirk, so I didn’t hesitate to apply.

What are your thoughts/memories of the programme?

There are so many! Intense but full of joy. The camaraderie of my fellow students from all over the world. Learning so much. The sharing and giving. Welcoming and wonderful staff and lecturers. About 15 of us driving up to Gairloch to climb Beinn Alligin on a sunny May Day. Singing songs, playing guitar in the Viccy bar. The struggles with the pesky Management Game! Mr Taggart (Jim?), the Herald and the Press Bar. That first term! Non-stop assignments! But they were never a chore. Always learning so much. Early days with emails I recall. Floppy discs. Presentations - very nervous but oh my, how it built me!

How has the MBA impacted on you since graduation?

Awareness of the business world. Different cultures. Understanding different viewpoints. Sharing and giving. Economics! Philanthropy. Business plans. Budgeting.

What would you say to someone considering doing the Strathclyde MBA?

A great place to study. A great programme. Informative, educational. A name with a reputation. Always at the forefront.

What was the best thing about Strathclyde?

The people I met. The things I learnt. I have so many happy memories.

Loved my year at SBS. It was a joy to meet Hazel (Lamont) again after so many years. And I’m still in touch with a number of my colleagues from the course.