Maria de la Luz Lino

Why did you choose to study at Kent Business School?

After several years of working in the logistics sector, I wanted to deepen my knowledge and expand my expertise. The challenges I had faced at work made me realise the importance of quickly adapting to the ever-changing world and how important it was to implement innovative ideas and optimal solutions into a business. After carefully examining different programmes available in the UK, I found that Kent Business School was a leading institute that not only taught interesting modules, such as strategic and sustainable procurement, big data or supply chain modelling, but also focused on real-life business problems.  

What attracted you to your programme of study and why?

The MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management programme was attractive because the modules are not only theoretical, they are also practical. The different modules gave me the tools to solve real logistics and supply chain problems. Also, there is a field visit to a relevant company making the programme more exciting. In my case, I visited the Eurotunnel Shuttle facilities which allowed me to learn how this unique and complex transport company works from a logistics point of view. The programme itself is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). As a member, I had access to workshops, received news related to the field and was able to attend events such as the 16th edition of the CILT Student Conference: Innovation in Logistics and Transport, held at the University of Greenwich.

What support do you receive as a student at Kent?

Kent Business School and the University of Kent support their students at all levels. In case we are going through a difficult time in terms of learning, our mental health or even professionally, such as writing a CV, there is always someone who is glad to help. In my experience, Unibuddy provided great support when I joined the University. It allowed me, as a new student, to talk to senior students about the student environment, what it’s like living in Canterbury and job opportunities.

How does a postgraduate degree differ from your previous studies?

A postgraduate degree is more specialised and provides a more advanced level of knowledge. I found that my postgraduate studies enabled the development of certain skills that will benefit my professional career including critical thinking, self-discipline and time management.

What areas of study have you most enjoyed?

Logistics and supply chain planning was one of the areas I enjoyed the most because it covered many different aspects of the industry. These included: the applications of optimisation techniques, inventory controls, implementation of different forecasting methods and various strategies in the global supply chain.

What are the facilities like in your School and on campus generally?

The University of Kent is well equipped, and the facilities are in excellent condition. Kent Business School’s facilities are incredible. The Bloomberg suite, computer labs and lecture rooms are bright, modern, and spacious. Perfect for studying and working on assignments!  

Have you used any of the resources provided by the Graduate and Researcher College?

I attended some of the Graduate and Researcher College workshops and I believe they offer valuable support to postgraduate students who will soon be looking for a job. The workshops discuss interesting topics related to improving professional competencies such as presentation skills, networking and writing skills, among others.

What are you planning to do next?

Even though my professional career has been related to logistics and in particular focused on imports and exports, I want to work in a company based in the UK and develop my expertise in the supply chain management area.

How do you think your studies at Kent will affect your career prospects?

My studies at Kent will make my professional profile more competitive and visible and will enhance my job opportunities. Thanks to the MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management programme, I have gained the ability to work with multicultural teams and achieve the same goal while appreciating the vision and ideas of everyone involved. I also enhanced my presentation skills in front of large audiences.  

Any advice for those thinking about taking a postgraduate degree at Kent?

If you are looking for a programme that focuses on real-life challenges while providing you with the tools to be professionally competitive, and also helps you to become employable in the UK or other parts of the world, do not hesitate to apply to the University of Kent.