Commuting, collaborating and growing: My first term experience at Cranfield

My first term at Cranfield University has been an extremely positive and rewarding experience. While the course has been intense at times, it has pushed me in the best possible way and allowed me to learn a significant amount in a short period of time.

Looking back, I can confidently say that the challenges of term one have played a major role in my personal and academic development. As a result, I now feel far more confident in my knowledge and understanding of logistics, procurement and supply chain management.

One of the highlights of my experience so far has been the people I’ve met along the way. I’ve met some great individuals on the course, and working alongside such motivated and supportive peers has made even the busiest periods enjoyable. The sense of teamwork and shared ambition has really enhanced my overall experience at Cranfield.

Overall, term one has been an incredibly valuable experience. It has challenged me, helped me grow, and confirmed that I made the right decision in choosing to study at Cranfield University. I’m excited to continue my journey and see what the rest of the programme has in store.

Student life and social experience

Although I don’t live on campus and instead commute daily from London to Cranfield, I’ve still been able to experience and appreciate the student life that Cranfield offers. From what I’ve seen and heard from classmates who live on campus, Cranfield provides a peaceful and enjoyable environment that is well-suited to focused study.

The campus has a strong sense of community, with excellent academic facilities such as the library, study spaces, and tranquil social areas that support both learning and collaboration. Even as a commuting student, spending time on campus during the day has allowed me to build strong connections with my course mates, and working closely together on group projects has helped form great friendships.

Many of my peers who live on campus have spoken positively about the social opportunities available, with the Cranfield Student Academic Support (SAS) and various societies organising events throughout the term. The welcoming and supportive atmosphere is clear, and it’s evident that Cranfield offers a well-rounded student experience for those who choose to fully immerse themselves in campus life.

Alan Harrison Half-Fee Scholarship

Being awarded the Alan Harrison Half-Fee Scholarship for the 2025/26 academic year has been a huge honour and a highlight of my time at Cranfield so far. Receiving this scholarship has not only provided significant financial support but has also been a great source of motivation. Knowing that my potential has been recognised has reinforced my decision to pursue a career in procurement and supply chain management.

This financial support has eased the pressure of tuition fees, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and make the most of everything Cranfield has to offer. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity, and I would strongly encourage eligible students considering the programme to apply. The process was straightforward, and the impact it has had on my university experience has been invaluable.

Looking ahead to Term Two

As I move into Term Two, I’m feeling positive and confident about what lies ahead. Completing term one has given me a strong foundation and a much clearer understanding of both the academic expectations and the subject content. The intensity of the first term has prepared me well, and I now feel more equipped to manage the workload and challenges moving forward.

Modules such as Analytical Techniques for Supply Chain Management (ATS), the experience of physically working with my team on the JIT game during Inventory Operations Management (IOM), listening to valuable information from industry speakers such as Heleen De Clercq and Steve Thomas – Toyota Motor Europe,  Colin Woodland – Secure Logistics Solutions Ltd, and Santosh Tiwari – Wipro.  I have surprised myself by doing things out of my comfort zone such as in-class presentations, which have really helped me to grow and gain confidence.

Applications now open for four half-fees scholarships (2 for Supply Chain MScs and 2 for Management MSc) for Home Fee paying applicants – closing date: 19 June 2026.