The University of Dublin, Trinity College Dublin

Colin Price, originally from Ireland, is European Business Manager at Rabobank International, Utrecht, Netherlands

"Before the MBA I worked as a Programme Manager for Standard Life, which was my first employer directly from school. I started in a front line clerical position, and over 17 years had the opportunity to take on many different roles.

Nowadays 17 years is a long time to stay with the one organisation! I had a strong sense that there had to be more, and a growing frustration in myself that I wasn’t reaching my full potential, and that if I didn’t do something about it sooner rather than later, I would end up missing some great opportunities, or worse still become institutionalised without the skills necessary to compete in the market place.

The first and most difficult decision was to commit to making a change. Taking on a full time MBA is a big deal, and to some extent a leap of faith with major financial implications.

Though there was a part of me that had always wanted to study at Trinity, I explored other options both in Ireland and abroad. There is definitely something very special about the place… the atmosphere, the history, and the reputation which is reflected in a strong global brand, and an extensive national and international alumni network. However, it was also important that the academic programme was first rate and tailored to my needs.

I was very impressed by the professionalism and personal attention I received when I first contacted the school, and on closer examination the academic programme was first rate. The broad subject matter with a strong strategic management theme pervasive throughout most of the courses really appealed to me. I also really liked its smaller somewhat boutique nature as I wanted to be seen as an individual and make the programme my own!

The final litmus test was that once I had decided on Trinity it didn’t feel like such a big decision afterall! On an emotional level it just felt right, and on an intellectual level it made sense.

Every day I was challenged not only academically but also on a personal level, but like everything in life, the more you put in the more you get back. The smaller class sizes made it easier to engage with other students and forge true friendships.... and the sense of camaraderie and mutual support was nothing short of outstanding. This culminated at the end of the year with our participation in the Cranfield MBA Regatta at Cowes. I was very proud to represent the college and delighted to be introduced to a new sport which I have continued to enjoy.

I honestly believe that every day I draw on something I learned in Trinity, from developing business strategy, driving change, forming and leading teams, to deciphering complexities of corporate finance. And, when I don’t have all the answers or solutions, I am confident that I will be able to find them…. the MBA has set me on a course of life long learning. No matter how busy or pressured work becomes I just think back to my first few weeks and I always have the confidence that I will be able to deliver. "