My Cranfield Journey: A Global Product Development Adventure
20/09/2024
Hi everyone! My name is Salma Aboujaafar, and I’ve just completed my MSc in Global Product Development and Management (GPD&M). I’m Moroccan, but I’m currently based in France, and my studies and professional experiences have taken me on a global adventure.
I chose Cranfield for its prestigious reputation and its strong industry connections. As a double degree student from IMT Nord Europe, the GPD&M course was a perfect fit with my previous studies. I was particularly drawn to its interdisciplinary nature, combining courses in digital engineering, product development, general management, and more.
The GPD&M course was demanding but incredibly rewarding. I loved the hands-on projects, especially the Group Project, which allowed us to tackle real-world industrial challenges. Working with classmates from diverse backgrounds was a highlight, as we brought different perspectives to problem-solving.
A typical day at Cranfield involved attending lectures from 9am to 5pm. After class, I’d relax with friends or focus on assignments. During study weeks, there were no formal lectures, but the workload didn’t let up. Weekends were more relaxed, and I enjoyed exploring nearby cities.
I’m currently completing my master’s thesis research at SNCF Réseau in Paris, which has been a great opportunity to apply my Cranfield knowledge in a practical setting.
Studying in the UK was a fantastic experience. The people are friendly, and the campus atmosphere is perfect for focusing on studies. I loved the Kings Norton Library and the delicious Kebab Truck!
In the future, I aim to pursue a career in the industrial sector, particularly in product development or operations management. I’m also considering pursuing a PhD in the future.
My advice to anyone interested in this field is to be proactive, build connections, and most importantly, enjoy the journey!
Oh, and one more thing: I’m a huge book lover! The UK is a book lover’s paradise, so I took full advantage. I ended up bringing back around 50 books with me!
Categories & Tags:
Leave a comment on this post:
You might also like…
Referencing the use of generative AI in your work
We recognise that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has, and will increasingly, become a part of our everyday lives and that we need to adapt to it. Hopefully you will have already seen the guidance for staff ...
Finding part-time work whilst studying at Cranfield – is it right for you?
We know that the cost of living in the UK is a real and ongoing challenge for many students. Whether you are still considering postgraduate study or already preparing for life at university, you ...
Leaving Cranfield soon? Have you heard about Alumni Library Online?
We are proud to offer one of the UK’s leading university library services for alumni. Alumni Library Online gives you instant access to thousands of top quality journal articles and the latest thinking to support ...
Want to know more about research methods?
Research methods are the strategies and tools used to gather, analyse and interpret data or evidence to uncover new information or create better understanding of a topic. Research methodology is the theory, justification and assumptions ...
Come for Cranfield, stay for Milton Keynes: how Bucks, Beds and the OxCam region are just getting started
Heard the one about the entry-level job that needed three years of experience? Sadly we all have, and that’s why in a jobs market where practical, hands-on experience is so important, study where collaboration ...
British Standards and ISO standards demystified
We are frequently asked how to find ISO (International Standards Organisation) standards. The best way to find them is to go straight to our British Standards Online (BSOL) service. Why go to British Standards if you ...