Hey there, fellow explorers of opportunity! Picture this: diving headfirst into a realm where challenges morph into opportunities, collaboration sparks innovation, and growth knows no bounds. Welcome to the Real-World Consultancy Programme - a gateway to a world where classroom theories collide with real-life dilemmas, forging a path of experiential learning and personal growth.

Embracing the Real-World Consultancy Programme

As a recent participant in the Real-World Consultancy Programme, I can't wait to share the exhilarating ride it offers. Join me as I take you through the transformative journey of problem-solving, collaboration, and self-discovery.

Throughout the programme, I witnessed firsthand the power of Design Thinking in unravelling complex problems. From crafting innovative solutions to honing crucial Future-Ready Skills like teamwork and time management, every moment was a step towards personal and professional development.

The consultancy team!

And the best part? It's not just about gaining experience - it's about making a tangible impact. As a student consultant, I had the privilege of working closely with clients, pitching ideas, and witnessing the transformation of concepts into reality.

So, if you're ready to challenge yourself, make lasting connections, and pave the way for a future brimming with possibilities, then the Real-World Consultancy Programme is your gateway. Don't miss out, check out MyFuture and apply for the next programme and embark on a journey of discovery, growth, and endless opportunities.

As students participating in this year's Real-World Consultancy Programme, we had the privilege of working directly with a range of esteemed clients. Throughout the programme, we engaged with challenges presented by Aflac Northern Ireland, BDO Northern Ireland, Gig Grafter Limited, KPMG Ireland, The Phoenix Education Centre and SureCert.

Drawing upon the principles of design thinking, we applied innovative tools, processes and mindsets to address the specific needs and goals of each client. This hands-on experience allowed us to collaborate closely with industry professionals, gaining valuable insights and making meaningful contributions to real-world projects. It was an enriching opportunity for us to put our skills into practice and make a tangible impact in the professional arena.

Unravelling the Power of Design Thinking

Day 1

Day 1 of the Real-World Consultancy Programme kicked off with an engaging icebreaker session where students and organisers introduced themselves and outlined the agenda. We were briefed on the Design Thinking process, setting the stage for the days ahead. Through fun activities like drawing portraits of team members with our non-dominant hand and sharing our favourite places and foods, we bonded and formed connections.

The morning session included an introduction to our assigned company and their specific challenges, while the afternoon was dedicated to preparing questions for our first client meeting. This initial client session provided deeper insights into the company's issues and allowed us to ask clarifying questions, setting the groundwork for the days of problem-solving ahead.

Network with real clients and respond to real challenges

Day 2

On the following day, our schedule was packed with various activities aimed at deepening our understanding and refining our approach. We began with a comprehensive review of the previous day's progress, emphasising divergent thinking to explore multiple perspectives. Engaging in the creation of user stories and delving into the intricacies of the identified problems allowed us to gain valuable insights.

Through ideation sessions and brainstorming exercises, we explored innovative solutions while considering the diverse needs of users. Additionally, we had the unique opportunity to interact directly with startup founders, CEOs, and top management, providing invaluable entrepreneurial exposure. This interaction enriched our understanding of real-world business dynamics and further fueled our creativity.

As we progressed through the day, we transitioned from ideation to the development of concrete solutions, leveraging the collective creativity of the team to address the challenges at hand.

Brainstorming sessions allow you to explore innovative solutions

Day 3

We delved deeper into refining our ideas through engaging activities that fostered creative thinking and encouraged us to step outside the conventional boundaries. Through mind games and exercises designed to stimulate innovative thought, we explored new perspectives and approaches. Following this, we regrouped to discuss strategies for generating ideas beyond the norm and presented our refined concepts to the clients later in the afternoon.

This presentation provided us with valuable feedback, allowing us to make further adjustments and improvements before the final day when we would propose our solutions. It was an insightful process that enabled us to relax, reassess, and iterate on our ideas effectively, gaining a deeper understanding of the core tasks at hand.

Day 4

We seized the opportunity to narrow down our key ideas and swiftly crafted short prototypes, drawing from our collective creativity and insights gained throughout the programme. Presenting our prototypes to the clients was a rewarding culmination of our efforts, where we received valuable feedback and witnessed the presentations of other teams.

Following the presentations, the responsibility shifted to the organisation to test and implement the proposed ideas. Afterwards, we indulged in a delightful hot lunch arranged by the careers cell, providing a well-deserved break to unwind and reflect on the intense four-day journey.

The day concluded with a memorable group dance exercise, themed around the concept of diamonds, symbolising the importance of leadership and teamwork. It underscored the significance of both roles in achieving collective success, emphasising the value of every individual's contribution. Our final reflections, shared on the wall, encapsulated the leadership lessons and key takeaways from this enriching programme.

The programme takes place inside the One Elmwood Student Centre

Reflecting on Growth and Achievement

We, the students, kicked off our journey with a FourSight mindset reveal, using the valuable insights into our individual problem-solving approaches to assemble diverse, interdisciplinary teams for each challenge. Engaging in a series of activities designed to stimulate creativity, collaboration, and curiosity, we embarked on an enriching exploration.

From crafting self-portraits to brainstorming ideas for a new animal kingdom, we eagerly embraced every opportunity to expand our horizons. As the programme drew to a close, we culminated our experience with an electrifying diamond dance, symbolising the importance of leadership and teamwork.

It was a privilege to support each other's growth in creative confidence and self-discovery throughout this transformative journey. We extend our heartfelt wishes to all fellow participants for continued success in their academic endeavors and future careers. Finally, this programme qualifies for a single route Future-Ready award which I am proud of.

A rewarding experience

Ready to take the plunge? Head over to MyFuture for more details and apply for the next Real-World Consultancy Programme. Your adventure awaits!

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Real-World Consultancy Programme

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Study MSc Business Analytics at Queen's

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Madhurya Jagadeesh MSc Business Analytics | Postgraduate Student | India I am a dedicated Business and Data Analyst with a strong academic foundation and a history in various analytical roles. My educational journey includes a Master of Science in Business Analytics from Queen's University Belfast and a Bachelor of Engineering in Information Science & Engineering.