Portrait photograph of: Irene Kovaiou

Irene Kovaiou

Country Of Origin: Greece

Degree: MSc Operational Research and Management Science (Business Analytics), 2017


Freelance Consultant, Self-employed


What was the best thing about your course?

It would be unfair to mention only one. Thus, the best things about my MSc programme was the course content, the teaching quality of the lecturers and the opportunity to apply the newly gained knowledge in a real-life business project. The ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ Operational Research skills, coupled with the constructive feedback I received from the lecturers during the terms, proved crucial to the successful completion of my dissertation project.

What/who inspired you most at LUMS and why?

I was inspired the most by some of my classmates who were bright and fully concentrated on their studies. They have raised the bar high and made me follow suit.

Did you do a project, placement, study abroad? What did this involve and what did you gain?

In term 3, the Management Science Department assigned me a real-life Data Analytics project for a UK Company. This project allowed me not only to practice what I have learnt during the previous terms but also to apply even more advanced techniques under the guidance of my Supervisor. Moreover, I had the chance to experience the British business culture and work with remarkable individuals.

Describe your time at LUMS in three words:

A challenging yet rewarding, milestone experience.

What impact has your Lancaster experience had on your career?

The Lancaster experience has made me more self-aware; it has helped me build on my areas of strength and identify areas I would like to improve. As a result, I have become confident in my abilities to pursue more senior roles that align with my true calling.