Suraiya Ramkissoon a MSc Quality Management student, discusses her decision to study at RGU and shares her experience studying the course online.
Tell us about yourself
I am a Guyanese woman who is passionate about quality and intrigued by the concept of standards. I was first introduced to ‘quality’ during my time working within a regional Caribbean conglomerate. I was greatly enthused by the application of the ISO 9001 Quality Management System Standard and its diversity across different industries within my country, as well as the practicality that it brought to operational efficiency and effectiveness. After gathering experience over the years, occupying several Quality Management roles, I decided that I wanted to further my studies in this exciting field.
Why did you choose RGU?
RGU offers an appealing MSc Quality Management course that is flexible. By studying via online learning I could work and study at the same time. Additionally the course content included modules in operations management and supply chain which made the programme very well rounded and an ideal fit in my opinion.
Tell us about your course experience?
I started the journey to complete my master’s in September 2018 via the online learning route. RGU’s course content presented topics that were relatable and relevant to my work experience and future goals. It also allowed me to proactively apply what I learnt in the course to my working endeavours at the time.
However, my journey was not without its challenges. With the COVID-19 pandemic and a coincidental job change that required both travel and onshore activities, I was fearful that I would not be able to complete the course as I intended. Thankfully, the flexibility of RGU’s programme allowed me to complete my studies regardless of these career changes or the effects of the pandemic. I successfully fulfilled my master’s journey and graduated virtually in July 2021.
What part of the course did you enjoy the most?
Naturally, the quality specific modules were my favourite. I was exposed to some of the underpinning fundamentals of quality, theories, perspectives and case studies. I believe the knowledge I’ve gained has added value to my work and altered my approach to problem solving solutions, scenarios and analysis. The “Mindfulness” topic in BSM 160 has also impacted me as I found it to be very relatable. It highlighted the metaphoric “mindful over mind full” and set an effective tone for the course.
How did you find studying your degree online?
It was difficult at first to adjust to the distance learning platform, and it called for a lot of self-discipline. However, weekly CampusMoodle activities did help to digest the course content and lecturers were responsive to questions. RGU’s online library was a great help in finding relevant material for assignments and general course reading.
Any piece of advice for future students?
Do not underestimate your coursework, be realistic in your time management and disciplined in your studies. BSM 160 provides tools that are very useful in staying on track. Participate in weekly CampusMoodle activities as much as possible as this can help you to digest the course material and better conceptualise the work. You may encounter unexpected challenges, RGU’s staff are there to guide you on how to manoeuvre these. If you feel like giving up, think about why you chose to pursue your course of study initially, focus on your achievements thus far and think of solutions to your challenges.
Suraiya Ramkissoon
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