Chris Holmes, a passionate clean energy advocate and Full-Time MBA alumnus from Imperial College Business School, shares his transformative journey. Hailing from a background in engineering and major infrastructure projects, Chris delves into his motivations for pursuing an MBA, his favorite highlights, and the pivotal role Imperial played in shaping his career in renewable energy strategy.
Motivations and Goals: Driven by a commitment to combat climate change, Chris aimed to contribute significantly to decarbonizing energy production. Recognizing the pivotal role of businesses in this transition, he sought an MBA to enhance his financial skills and transition into a role aligning with his clean energy ambitions.
Key Highlights: Chris’s MBA journey at Imperial was marked by impactful experiences, including representing Imperial at the World Government Summit in Dubai and a transformative global experience week in Copenhagen and Helsinki. The Capstone, a leadership development weekend in the Norwegian mountains, provided a reflective closure to the program.
Networking and Career Support: Leveraging Imperial’s strong alumni network, Chris secured a strategic consulting project with SSE Thermal and a summer internship with RWE Offshore Wind. These experiences not only enriched his understanding of the clean energy sector but also facilitated landing a Strategy Advisor role post-MBA.
The Imperial Community: The heart of Chris’s MBA experience was the diverse and supportive cohort of 73 individuals from around the world. Whether navigating academic challenges or organizing events, the sense of camaraderie prevailed. Social clubs, sports activities, and a shared passion for learning created a tight-knit community.
Challenges and Sacrifices: Acknowledging the intensity of a one-year MBA, Chris emphasizes the need for commitment, late nights, and weekends dedicated to learning and networking. Balancing priorities, especially for those aiming for a career shift, requires clear goal-setting and time management.
Advice for Future Applicants: Chris advises prospective applicants to reflect on their goals and consider whether an MBA aligns with their growth objectives. Understanding what each program offers and matching it with personal needs and aspirations is crucial. Research, conversations with alumni, and a deep understanding of the program’s unique strengths contribute to a compelling application.
Imperial’s Worth: For Chris, Imperial’s Full-Time MBA was invaluable. Beyond academic growth, the program provided a global network, exposure to diverse thinking, and paved the way for his dream role in renewable energy strategy. The supportive community, coupled with Imperial’s emphasis on technology and innovation, made the MBA a worthwhile investment in both personal and professional development.
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