My Cranfield Journey: A Global Product Development Adventure

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!