Aaron

Why did I choose my programme (and CBS)?
I really appreciated the 2-year intensive syllabus to understand many facets of bioentrepreneurship. The option to combine an internship with the thesis in order to gain practical experience was a definite stand out to me. It was the combination of these two key factors coupled with Denmark being a key player in the life science industry that urged me to choose my programme. I am an international student and I love experiencing new cultures, this was also a key deciding factor in choosing Copenhagen.

What do I like the best?
I liked the concept of reinforcing my scientific acumen first and then gradually transitioning to a more bio-business-oriented course. This makes me gain a good firm understanding of general science although one could tailor it based on their likeness. This flexibility the programme offers in choosing units made this programme a lucrative choice with a good balance of business and science overall to facilitate active interdisciplinary learning among the student body.

How do I experience the difference in academic level between my bachelor and master programme?
The level is slightly amplified due to a difference in teaching patterns and the fact that a block lasts only 2 months makes the experience feel more intensive. The teaching style is vastly different too, with my present program being more grounded in the basics and placing an emphasis on overall learning. This felt like a vast difference initially and can impact how one perceives the difference in the "level" of their previous course to their current course.

What are the biggest challenges in my study programme?
Getting accustomed to the block system and longer than usual lecture durations was a big challenge for me initially as it took a different kind of preparation and planning in advance. This was especially challenging as an international in Denmark as there were requirements to acquire my residence and healthcare-related requirements while balancing my education. This can be overcome but just takes some getting used to. Additionally, the lack of practice in oral exams made the testing of my courses harder as it wasn't something I was used to.

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?
I opted for this program with an open mind willing to experience the challenge of transitioning between professional backgrounds. However, I wish I networked more with my peers from previous batches to understand the complexities of student life with this program and for any tips and suggestions. Additionally, the requirements demanded of the compulsory "Big data in Biotech" module was percieved to be higher than stated, and being the first course was more challenging and confusing than anticipated.

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?
I currently have no solid plans, however, life science-related consulting is a top choice for me at the moment. I aspire to be connected to the Bio-innovation sector that bridges science, innovation and business with the aspects of commercialization. Translating innovation to impact is a goal of mine and is something I aspire to have involved with my career. The purpose of choosing my course was to discover how I can best apply this to a range of professions.

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…
Discovering an effective routine and work ethic even before starting would be ideal to better transition into the work-intensive course it can be. Maybe also establishing strategies to better my work-life balance based on my priorities could have been done in more depth. This would take some introspection so that I stay on top of my work but still establish a good work-life balance and cater well to my hobbies and interests.