Curious about how to find a degree that balances both analytical thinking and creative problem-solving? Wondering what it’s really like to study Management Science at UCL as a second-year student?
In this student blog, BSc Management Science student Sofia Kalaykova shares how the UCL School of Management helped her find the perfect balance between her analytical strengths and creative interests. From hands-on projects like Scenario Weeks to networking at major industry events, Sofia reflects on the skills she’s developed, the lessons she’s learned from collaboration, and how she’s shaping her future career path. She also offers a candid look at student life, societies, and making the most of London as your campus.
Want to ask Sofia more about the Management Science programme or her experience balancing creativity and analytics in a business degree?
Reflections of a UCL School of Management student
Hi there! My name is Sofia Kalaykova, and I’m a second-year student studying Management Science at UCL.
I’ll start with a bit about my background. Ethnically, I’m Polish and Bulgarian, but I’ve lived in London all my life, so I’ve experienced both village and city life. I studied Maths, Psychology, and Art for my A-Levels, which is what led me to choose Management Science at university.
Why choose the Management Science programme? A current student’s perspective
The Management Science BSc was the only programme I came across that provided a balanced blend of analytical and creative modules, which aligned well with my A-Levels: I was hopeful I’d find the content interesting. A lot of the content also seemed really applicable, providing a broad skillset I’d be able to build on as I figured out what I wanted to do.
I was already leaning towards business and finance-related fields, but I didn’t have a clear idea of what careers I was interested in pursuing; I knew I wanted a solid programme which gave me room for exploration and access to a variety of future career paths: that was Management Science at the UCL School of Management.
Developing essential skills in management science
Now that I’m actually studying the programme, I’m glad that my expectations were correct. I’ve enjoyed building on my quantitative skills in maths and programming, as it’s helped me feel confident in my ability to think analytically. On the other hand, I’ve also discovered how much more I enjoy collaborative, interactive work, such as during scenario weeks and modules such as Design and Entrepreneurship.
Collaborating with different people really demonstrated how people’s strengths lie in different places, and that when people tell me ‘It’s fine if other people are doing better at this, you’ll be better at something else’, it’s true and not just a cop-out. It’s helped me understand that it’s okay if my interests don’t align with those of my peers, as I’d feel and perform better in careers that are suited for me rather than the most common paths graduates usually take.
Learning and connecting beyond the programme
I’d say my future aspirations align with that sentiment: developing my skills and interests to reach a career in which I can truly excel. I’d like to keep learning and developing my network, something which I realised was important to me through attending the UK AI Summit and other networking events.
One of my favourite things during my time at university was how much insight I gained into a variety of different fields by attending talks and events I initially didn’t know much about. Speaking to people and hearing about their interests, perspectives, and insights was very eye-opening and reassured me that learning and connecting with people is something I’d like to continue doing well after university.
Real projects with real executives: the Management Science Scenario Weeks
My highlight of the Management Science programme so far has been the Scenario Week we had with DHL. We were given a real consulting project to work on, where we had to consider the real information and the readability of our solutions for all stakeholders.
I remember the pressure we were under all week, knowing we’d have to present our deliverables to C-suite executives of DHL Supply Chain and be prepared for any concerns they may have regarding it.
The power of teamwork: a lesson learned under pressure
However, the moment that I remember most vividly was when my co-presenter and I were asked a question I had no clue how to answer, and he responded immediately on an area I hadn’t even thought about. It felt like I had prepared myself for everything except that one question, but without him, I would’ve been in the deep!
This was the moment that really made me realise how important it is to let yourself rely on others, it’s not realistic to be able to do everything yourself, so you need to have some faith in the competence of your peers to support you.
student life is more than just academics
I’ve also been part of multiple societies at UCL, including tennis, dance, Polish, Bulgarian and art, and ’ve been considering joining volleyball, as well. You might be wondering how I balanced all these societies with the rest of my commitments at university, and the short answer is: I didn’t. I probably attended dance the most out of all of them, but I focused my studies and plans with my friends rather than societies.
That being said, I have many friends for whom societies are a massive part of their lives, and they really are an amazing place to meet people and build your interests, but if after having tried out a couple, you still don’t feel like any clicked for you, that’s also totally okay. London is full of inspiring and fun places, people, and things to do, so no matter what you like, there’ll be something to do and someone to share that with!
Read more student and alumni blogs or check out our alumni activities.
UCL School of Management Student Recruitment: Additional information
Are you interested in one of our programmes? We want to hear from you!
We’d be happy to discuss your fit and aptitude for our range of programmes - including the ways in which the School can help you to develop the skills necessary to fulfil your career potential and set yourself up for a thriving career as a future business leader. Interested in exploring other pieces from Ruoyu? Check out his profile on the UCL School of Management website. Alternatively, read more student and alumni blogs or check out our alumni activities.
This is your exclusive opportunity to outline your education and career aspirations, your background and suitability for your programme of interest, and discuss any questions you may have about UCL, the School of Management, student life in London, our campuses, careers, applications, and more.
Meet the Student Recruitment Marketing Team at an event near you.
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The UCL School of Management Industry Advantage
Taking advantage of our global network and strategic campus location in London’s financial and business district, the UCL School of Management recently launched three new speaker series.
Our speakers come from a range of industries and backgrounds to showcase their experiences and skills. Explore what you can gain from our Speaker Series below:
Business Leaders Speaker Series
