International Student Advisor Travel Blog

I’m into the last few days of the tour now and have arrived in Dubai. It was a nightmare getting in, taking more than 90 minutes to clear immigration at 11pmThis was longer than the flight time from Kuwait to Dubai.

This has been a great trip visiting more than 20 schools in the region and having the opportunity to talk to Year 11,12 and 13 schoolchildren about the variety of undergraduate programmes available to obtain Plymouth University degrees here in Greenwich. Most children and counsellors alike were amazed at our three semester year, allowing students flexibility on start dates as well as the opportunity to graduate in 2 years. Of particular interest here of course is our BSc in Oil and Gas Management. If anyone reading this hasn’t checked it out download the undergraduate prospectus.

Going back to my frustration of the arrival reminded me of frustrations that can so easily occur in the application and admission process particularly with so much the overseas student has to do , not only to satisfy the requirements of the school but also the immigration authorities. Patience and perseverance are required. Start the process early to allow for little frustrations along the way. Delays may occur. In my case it was because of a large influx of people for the golf, cricket, a conference and the Dubai Marathon ,all taking place as I write this. Yours maybe, funding, transcripts or ELP (English Language Proficiency). I arrived at my hotel with enough time to sleep and make my first appointment. Make sure you make it to school on time. It’ll be worth it!

No sooner had I returned from a very interesting trip to Ghana and Uganda than I was preparing to travel out again on a Gulf Tour. The relationship built up in Uganda was instantaneous and I managed with Geoffrey to see influential people in Government and within the Education industry. GSoM have agreed to run a seminar in Kampala in co-operation with Makerere University. This is on 28th/29th of February and will be displaying the depth and quality of Oil and Gas Education in GSoM.

For now though I’m in the middle of our Gulf Tour. (When it was first mentioned to me I thought it was Golf Tour so I volunteered immediately!). The purpose of the tour is to introduce GSoM with Plymouth University to Year 12 and Year 13 children, so the focus is primarily on our undergraduate programmes. As usual in all the places I visit the reception given to me has been warm and friendly and the quality of the students very high. I started in Muscat, Oman, where I was introduced to students and academic counsellors. Of particular interest in this region, not surprisingly, is our Oil and Gas Management BSc and the 2 year accelerated programmes. Currently I am writing this from Doha, Qatar and I have already had two productive days here.

I move from here on Saturday to Kuwait before going to Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Anyone reading this from the Gulf States who wishes to meet me please mail me, I’ll be happy to help.

Hello and Happy New Year from Kampala. This is my first visit and as always I have had a fantastic friendly welcome. As I have previously said we have a good number of Ugandan students at our Greenwich campus. I have come to establish relationships with schools and universities to make a smooth transition for those wishing to further their studies in the UK with us. Added to that I am talking to people about a GSoM presence here similar to the ones we have in India, Nigeria, Ghana and Thailand. This demonstrates our continued commitment to overseas students and our desire to help those who want to come genuinely to study in England. Watch this page for more details.

Hi, I wish you all a Happy New Year and hope that all your educational goals can be achieved during this year. I have travelled around Ghana and everywhere I go, education matters. I have been privileged to meet far sighted people that are looking beyond their locality in search of education and an edge that will help them succeed. This Christmas we have been helping those whose primary concern is survival, education seems a distant dream. Those for whom the dream is within reach should grasp it so that they can make a difference not only in their lives but to put that dream within the grasp of others. My next stop is Kampala, Uganda. It is GSoM's first official visit there and I'm looking forward to meeting potential students as well as members of the Government and prominent business people. We have a number of excellent Ugandan students on all our programmes and we look forward to increasing this number through 2012 and beyond.

Today 25th December 2011 GSoM was the major sponsor of an event in Efua Sutherland Children’s Park in Accra. The purpose was to feed hungry children and give them a real Christmas. I was there serving orphans and homeless rice and ice-cream and helping them enjoy a day that most take for granted. GSoM and I consider it a privilege to help in this way. Our aim in education is to help young adults to become qualified so they can make a difference when serving their companies or their countries. We hope that in a small way on Sunday we demonstrated our commitment to make a small difference in the lives of those less fortunate materially than we are. MERRY CHRISTMAS

It’s been a long time since I last posted. Things have been moving so fast with new directives on overseas students from the UKBA. Rest assured all of you that GSoM is a Highly Trusted Organisation and is committed to providing first class education to students from all over the world. I’ve been busy setting up offices in many countries so that more help can be given on the ground to our potential students .

We run quality undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and attract many hundreds of students from the UK and all over the world. Our motto is “Education Matters” . This is true now, in this world riddled by economic difficulties, more than ever before. GSoM with its accelerated and extended programmes at BSc level can ensure that it has a programme that will appeal to anyone who has the desire to enhance job prospects through education.

My own motto is “ We care about your success” Each student that comes to us will be given the support that they need to succeed. To demonstrate our caring spirit I’m in Accra all over Christmas. I’ll be working with mylyfline (www.mylyfline.com) they are running feeding programmes for homeless children and also in the constituency of The Honourable Adem Asimah in South Dayi where we’ll be visiting orphanages. GSoM are proud to support these projects and I’m sure others will follow. Merry Christmas, watch this space Andy’s back!

I half promised that my last entry would indeed be my last entry for this trip. However, I’m sitting in Lucknow airport on my way back to Hyderabad via Mumbai. The flight has been delayed meaning for the second evening running we will arrive in our hotel after midnight. I have not visited either Chandigarh or Lucknow before and both have provided delightful surprises. Chandigarh has tree lined streets and green areas everywhere and the traffic is altogether orderly and lacking threat. Our hosts were delightful and the prospects of students good. Everyone is talking of the rule changes of Her Majesty’s Government and my answer is that GSoM is in good position and will continue business as usual giving quality education to dedicated, serious students wanting value for money.

On to Lucknow, where huge development work is being done to improve the environment for all visitors and residents. It seems that the Chief Minister wants to leave a legacy of ornate buildings surrounding open areas for recreation. I’ve not seen ornamental buildings erected on this scale anywhere and once finished it will be truly impressive and an undoubted tourist attraction. The Chief Minister clearly has a dream on a grand scale.

All of us dream I hope that the dreams of those reading this to come to England for a world class education will be realized with GSoM.
Andy Cartwright, 26/03/2011

This will probably be my last posting of this particular trip. I made it back from Vijayawada to Hyderabad by road. It was a long and sometimes perilous journey.

I am now in Delhi so my trip around India is coming to an end. There is just about time to prepare for our June intake and prospective students are frantically collating documents and getting themselves ready. The news from the British Government on student visas has meant that my phone has been ringing even more than usual. Throughout this and all my trips I have emphasized quality and track record of education providers. GSoM has been educating students for more than 35 years. We are a Highly Trusted School and as such are very much open to welcome International Students for a long long time to come. The Government has re-iterated that international students are welcome in the UK but they want to ensure that they study in quality institutions. Their benchmark for that quality is achieving Highly Trusted Sponsor Status by April 2012. Greenwich School of Management is already Highly Trusted.

We look forward to welcoming you to Greenwich very soon.
Andy Cartwright, 25/03/2011

I arrived slightly weary from Chennai to Hyderabad. Now begins a very travel intensive period visiting Vijayawada, Kolkata, Delhi, Chandrighar and Lucknow before returning to Hyderabad on Sunday for wrap-up meetings and the trip to London via Mumbai. During this time I will be meeting many students eager to pursue their education in the UK. I'll be trying to help and give them confidence that GSoM is the place to come. My job is relatively easy as we have 37 years of experience teaching overseas students and we are a highly trusted sponsor as designated by the UKBA. These two facts alone bring confidence particularly to parents who more often than not are the financial sponsors.

Talking of parents I was lucky enough to be invited by parents of one of our current MBA students from Hyderabad to lunch. We spent a very enjoyable time chatting and relaxing. They were delighted that their son was studying with us in Greenwich and that everyone concerned with his admission had been so efficient and friendly. I have been promised a game of golf on my next visit. I hope I will have time.

I am in Vijayawada whille writing this, a city grown on the banks the river Krishna. How often I find travelling that waterways are at the heart of thriving cities. It's my first visit and we travelled by road from Hyderabad, a journey not for the faint-hearted. We return tonight after interviews all day here in three different locations. I'm coming to to the end of my trip notes for this protracted journey.

Remember we still have places available for our June enrolment but time is running out. We need your applications now as there are many formalities to conclude and June is fast approaching.
Andy Cartwright, 22/03/2011

Today was always going to be a long day. I was scheduled to be picked up from my hotel at 8am and driven via Vashu to Pune to address a large gathering of eager final year students on the verge of graduation.

All was going well. My transport arrived on time we made good progress to Vashu picked up my host for the day and proceeded to the Expressway. Right at the top of a severe incline the driver pulled on to the hard shoulder. At first I thought he had stopped so we could admire the view but a minute later the hood was up and steam started escaping. Clearly the engine had overheated. After 5 minutes of aimless prodding a motor scooter parked in front of us and a gentleman wandered over took one look at our plight and returned to his scooter only to come back clutching a small bag of miscellaneous tools.

He explained that the electric fan had stopped working. Within ten minutes the battery was disconnected and bits were piling up on the ground in front of us. I was skeptical even when I heard that he was a motorway breakdown man. Ten minutes later however and bits were being re-instated the fan started working and after handshakes and photos we resumed. Our joy was short-lived and 30 kilometres later the driver slowed and came to a halt. Clearly the vehicle was in trouble so after hurried calls it was decided that a replacement car would come from Pune to fetch us. We needed however to get to the next tollbooth to prevent our rescuers from going many kilometres past us before being able to turn. We limped forward for a few minutes but it was hopeless. Resourceful to the end we emptied the car of luggage and hitched a lift. Very soon a most obliging guy pulled in, the three of us with laptops briefcases and my luggage bundled into the car and we were off. I have to say I felt sorry for the driver who we had abandoned to sort out the doomed vehicle.

We unpacked the car at the tollbooth and waited in the Indian sun to be rescued. Sure enough a car slowed did a very inelegant U-turn and we ran from our resting place and soon we were on our way again. No further mishaps occurred and we enjoyed a very good seminar with eager students attentive and keen to ask questions. It was a good session staff and students were pleased and my hosts delighted.

After a good lunch we ordered another vehicle to make the return journey to Mumbai. It arrived after many phone calls enquiring whether the “ten minutes” promised was about to be over! Soon we were off though, until without warning our driver pulled on to the hard shoulder. We all clambered out to see a puncture to the nearside front tyre. We laughed as this sort of thing doesn’t happen, took more pictures with another spectacular backdrop. The spare tyre had no tread at all but the driver assured me we’d stop to repair the puncture. We did but the repaired tyre was put in the boot!

I’m writing this in Mumbai airport safe and well, it’s 8.30pm and I still have a plane ride to Ahmedabad to make.

Who told you this was the best job in the world? Actually I enjoyed every minute although my hosts were incredulous and apologetic I could always see the entertaining side of it. I have to thank them for a memorable day.
Andy Cartwright, 15/03/2011

One of my tasks as I travel around the world is to meet prospective representatives in various countries and states.

I can then see them in their own offices and train them on the courses and ways of GSoM. We recognize the importance of our “highly trusted sponsor” status afforded to us by the immigration service. We need to be certain that those that represent us understand our philosophy and the way we go about things so that they can better advise our prospective students. In countries where English is not a first language I explain the need for a recognized language qualification. Many of those that I am seeing now have their own facility to teach for these qualifications (IELTS, TOEFL and Pearson Test in English are among the most common). I am in Mumbai (Maharastra) now and before that Bangalore (Karnataka) and Cochin (Kerala). I have met excellent people who will represent us very well in these states and I look forward to welcoming students from them to GSoM in the future.

Mumbai is a bustling city with people going about their business with single-minded determination. It is that very quality that drives people to better themselves through education recognizing, as they do, that an MBA or MSc in a Management discipline opens the door to promotion or interview or to career changing opportunity. GSoM is here to help achieve this for each and every one of its students.
Andy Cartwright, 14/03/2011

Greetings from Bangalore, It's Saturday morning and I'm awaiting my first student visitor of the day. Even by the rigorous schedules I'm used to this one takes in many cities in a very short space of time. I hope to be able to meet many applicants keen to come to the UK for studies.

The one thing I notice about India is that everybody is in a hurry and wants to get places fast and at the last possible moment. This is a praiseworthy characteristic in most things and exhibits drive and determination. When planning an educational future in the UK though one needs to approach it in a more measured and cautious way. One needs a minimum of 3 to 4 months to go through all the procedures necessary to fulfil the requirements of the school and the UKBA (immigration).

My advice is to start planning early. Even if you are thinking of commencing studies in Feb 2012 it's not too early to be gathering transcripts, references and planning your English language qualification. Certainly our October entry candidates ought to be seeing me now ready to apply and for our June entry the process should be underway. remember things outside your control can delay the process so build in some time to take account of these unforeseen circumstances. This is good management.
Andy Cartwright, 12/03/2011

This will be my last report from Africa until my next trip in the summer.

It's been a huge success establishing representation for our potential students in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Bamako with one planned in Accra. GSoM is committed to education of overseas students and will continue to make it easier to get advice on our wide range of management courses. My colleagues and I have been overwhelmed by the warmth of our reception everywhere we visit. We are constantly made aware of the genuine gratitude that people have for our presence in the region.

As I sit this Sunday evening in Lagos airport saying farewell and grateful thanks to West Africa tomorrow I will be saying hello to colleagues and friends in India as my whirlwind trip begins. Please check this site for my itinerary and come and see me you'll be most welcome.
Andy Cartwright, 06/03/2011

Greetings from Bamako in Mali. It is amazingly difficult travelling around West Africa. It is not very far in kilometres from Lagos to Bamako. My trip however has taken me through Togo (Lome) Niger (Niamey) Burkino Faso (Ouagadougou) arriving Bamako some 10 hours later.

On a trip like this you have to follow your itinerary very closely or you can get horribly lost and ultimately fail. In the end the journey is worthwhile. Bamako, straddling the great Niger river which brings life and prosperity to vast chunks of West Africa, is a delight. The people hospitable and warm and with a thirst for education.

This journey reminded me of the journey our students need to make from application to arrival in the UK. You must be meticulous in your preparation and follow the guidance given by the school and our chosen representatives and you will succeed. Go off on your own and the path can be fraught with danger and may lead to ultimate disappointment. I made it to the banks of the Niger I hope you make it to the banks of our great river, the Thames.
Andy Cartwright, 03/03/2011

Those that follow this “blog” will recall that my last visit here was in transit seeing students under a tree at the airport. At the time I suggested that people keen enough to travel to see me there would definitely come to GSoM. I can confirm that all those who came for help and advice there have come back to see me this time in the more comfortable surroundings of the Alisa Hotel and have confirmed that they will be joining our October intake 2011.

We have had exceptionally busy time here with the emphasis on students requiring information and advice on our MSc in Oil and Gas Management. This is obviously a logical choice as recently Ghana has confirmed oil and gas deposits within its borders.

I am writing this at 7.20 am local time having already seen a prospective student on her way to work. It was extremely worthwhile as she possessed a first class honours degree and a host of professional qualifications. She came with copies of all the relevant documents making my task a very simple one. It will be a pleasure to welcome her and all our other Ghanaian applicants to Greenwich for the upcoming entries in June and October 2011.
Andy Cartwright, 28/02/2011

After a very successful visit to Abuja, interviewing some students of very high quality, we travelled early on Saturday morning to Port Harcourt. The Eastern areas have for many years produced excellent students for GSoM. The great thing about Nigeria is the lengths people are prepared to go to in order to meet us.

Two such applicants travelled from beyond Warri in Delta State (a five hour trip) to present themselves for interview. In both cases it required an overnight stay here in Port Harcourt before returning home. One of these will make an exceptional MBA student for our September intake, the other was an Oil and Gas MSc graduate from GSoM who was determined to introduce to us his two siblings so that they could have the benefit of the GSoM experience that he had so enjoyed. It is so gratifying when these things happen and gives me renewed strength on this punishing trip.

Apart from interviewing I took the opportunity to train a staff member here so that potential students from the east of Nigeria can get admissions help. This is part of our overall strategy to ease the path of Nigerians who wish to take advantage of high quality UK education at GSoM.

I’m back in Lagos tonight seeing students in Ikeja and visiting our new premises before flying to Accra on Tuesday evening. More good news is that I have finalized my trip to Mali which will begin on the 28th February (see my schedule on this site). This will be my first visit so please come and see me in Bamako.
Andy Cartwright, 21/02/2011

We arrived in Abuja last night. Our arranged transport had broken down en route so we opted for the airport - city centre minibus (always aware of keeping expenses down).

The back four seats were piled up with luggage and I thought I was the last passenger that had a seat. I was wrong as seats flipped down into the aisles of the bus allowing another five passengers to be accommodated.

The driver then noticed a child occupying a seat so ordered her on to her mother’s lap to squeeze one more in. Finally the ticket collector squeezed through the door to stand by the exit and the laden bus lurched on to the airport road.

I settled back admiring the resilience and patience of the passengers and hoping for a smooth journey into town. I was unprepared for the fact that this was a stopping bus and before long a passenger cried to be let off. Unfortunately he was in the middle of the bus and his luggage was at the back and at the bottom of a precarious pile. The driver scrambled over the seats and opened the back window and searched feverishly for the right bag before thrusting the bag through the open window. This frantic scene was repeated a number of times before it was our turn to be handed bags laden with prospectuses through the window.

The purpose of this anecdote is that the driver, although very willing and extremely cheerful, patient and hardworking could have made his life much easier had he managed his situation or he had a manager to help him. Management is something that is taught and that is the point. I kept thinking how much better off the driver would have been had he been able to come to GsoM to learn the important skills that we teach.

I am writing this BLOG in the office in which we are interviewing. I am not able to access the internet, therefore cannot answer mail and cannot update files. This will have to be done on my return to the hotel. It seems that the internet as with mobile communications are taken for granted around the world. How did we manage a few years ago? The answer is of course that we did manage and the new technology has, far from making our lives easier, just placed added stresses and strains upon us. The change has been so fast that many have fallen behind. One of the key elements of the MBA programme is the management of change, a vital component in this ever changing world.

Make sure you don’t fall behind, think management education at GsoM today.
Andy Cartwright, 18/02/2011

Back in Lagos in the Blue Ribbon Hotel here in Ikeja. It's Sunday morning and it looks like I have a busy day. My first appointment is scheduled for 9am and my last at 5pm.

The great thing about arriving in Africa is the genuine happiness of people to see you. There are huge problems all over but the enthusiasm of the people is tangible. As always I'm looking forward to the interraction and the hope that I can offer to people who have genuine dreams to study with us in the UK.

I'll keep you posted on my progress but as usual it promises to be hard work but rewarding. If you're in Nigeria reading this, phone 08053588797 and let's chat.
Andy Cartwright, 13/02/2011

As you will be aware by now I travel around the world bringing quality students to GSoM for their undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

Sometimes I lose sight of the importance of UK education to our potential students. I was reminded of it this morning. I was calling to follow up an enquiry from Damascus. I introduced myself and there was silence. Sometimes I get bad lines. I enquired if there was anyone there and then I heard a voice it was both excited and surprised. “I never expected a personal call, I’m excited and honoured” the voice continued.

It turns out that this prospective student wants a new educational challenge and is keen to be advised on business education in London. All the way through the conversation there was genuine excitement and disbelief that someone should care enough to call.

I’m sure this young Syrian will try harder than ever now to come and study with us. It’s just one of the many ways that GSoM can make a difference to your educational experience. Try it.
Andy Cartwright, 10/02/2011

The South East Asian leg of my journey is coming to an end.

From the weekend I’ll be in West Africa, Nigeria from 13th then Ghana from 23rd and Mali from 28th. All potential students from these places should contact me by mail Cartwright@greenwich-college.ac.uk or check my schedule on the website.

It’ll be great to see you and help you on your way to a first class UK education here at GSoM.
Andy Cartwright, 08/02/2011

Today is the start of celebrations for Chinese New Year. A time for remembering and renewing all over Asia. I wish everybody A Happy New Year as the year of the Rabbit begins and hope that it’s everything you wish.

As I travel I find it important to embrace the traditions and customs of the people that are welcoming me and showing me hospitality. London as a multi-cultural and cosmopolitan city has so much to offer as people from all over the world meet and exchange ideas and values.

Coming to London for students is not just about sitting in lectures and learning about the ways of international business from books and tutors. This is an important part, but even more important is to learn from fellow students from around the world how they live and do business. It’s about learning new things each and every day from people that you do not meet in your home environment.

In order to get the best from your education you should embrace those new and different ideas and thoughts. This will give you a better understanding of how our world works (or doesn't work). If you do this you will step out of your "comfort zone" and you'll grow as a citizen of the world. Come and join us at GSoM and see for yourself.
Andy Cartwright, 03/02/2011

I’m currently in Thailand . It's a fantastic place with great appetite for education. I am spending some time interviewing and selecting trustworthy organisations who will be able to represent GSoM here.

I know that it won’t be long before GSoM have a point of contact here in Thailand. Once this happens interested students will be able to obtain first - hand information about studying with us in the UK. We have always found our Thai students to be hard workers who have had a desire to achieve . These are the qualities that are essential if you are to make the most of your UK educational experience.

I shall be here combining work with a few rounds of golf over the next week or so. If you want to get in touch with me over the next couple of weeks then please get in touch over the email (cartwright@greenwich-college.ac.uk and hopefully I can arrange to meet you. Look forward to hearing from you.
Andy Cartwright, 28/01/2011

I have been using the first few days of this trip to India to visit our two representative offices in Hyderabad and Chennai and introduce a new face to the team. He is Neil Jones who has recently joined the admissions team at GSoM. He brings with him a great deal of experience of international markets. I’m sure he will be of great help as we expand into new areas and enhance our efforts in areas where we are already strong. The meetings with our representatives went well and all involved understand clearly the way forward. That is, to offer excellent advice to potential high quality students who are interested in following a programme of study at GsoM.

Neil is now on his way back to London, whilst I have travelled on to Bangkok, Thailand. Here, I will be conducting interviews with students and meeting potential representatives. Thailand and the surrounding south east asian countries is an area of the world with a great hunger for international education, so I’m excited to be here and I'm looking forward to the challenge.
Andy Cartwright, 25/01/2011

I’m on the road again, having spent a very cold and subsequently wet Christmas and early January in England. I wish everybody reading this a Very Happy New Year and hope that it will be a year of educational achievement.

I arrived at Heathrow Airport early yesterday morning and was greeted by a very friendly representative from the airline and shown to the relevant line. The check-in process was painless; my bags were checked right through to Hyderabad , India and I got the aisle seat. I was walking away when my greeter approached me and took my ticket, beckoning me to follow. He gave my ticket to a third party who wrote down my seat assignment and returned it.

“What was that for?” I enquired. “upgrade” he replied. Having thanked him I proceeded with the business in hand. When i got to the gate and was handed a boarding card with the number 54C on it I asked if I was indeed getting an upgrade. You can guess the answer. I was in no worse position than if the original conversation had not happened but felt let down and somehow cheated. I had not asked for favourable treatment but was offered it and then it was taken away.

When you deal with GSoM I hope you will always get what is promised and a bit more besides. We offer a quality education at a very reasonable cost.

We will only put you on a course that we believe you will complete successfully with hard work. Your part is to attend classes, do your assignments and work hard. We promise what we can deliver.

On another note, the hazards of international travel were highlighted about 15 minutes out of Hyderabad airport en route for my hotel. The driver seemingly lost control of the car on a sharp bend we bounced in and out of the kerb of the central reservation before coming to an unceremonious stop in the middle of the road. Luckily it was early in the morning and no harm was done except two blown tyres. We flagged down a passing car who delivered me safely to my hotel. The car returned later. Situations like this make one think how dangerous life can be. One must grab opportunities and go for dreams. Tomorrow may be too late! We at Greenwich School of Management can help take the perceived danger out of your overseas higher education experience.

We have more than 35 years experience of teaching international students from all over the world; and as UKBA Highly Trusted Sponsors you know you’ll be looked after here at GSoM.
Andy Cartwright, 20/01/2011

Just a final message of the year from me. Remember if you are preparing for February enrolment you will need your CAS very soon in order to apply for your visa in early January.

It can take 15 working days or more at busy times of the year and we really want you travelling by the end of January so you are settled when term starts.

My plans for early in the New year include Mali, Ghana, Nigeria and India with likely first trips to Uganda and South Africa. Watch this page for my itinerary.

All that remains for me is to wish you all my very best wishes for the holiday season and a Happy New Year.
Andy Cartwright, 17/12/2010

I am now in the middle of the most challenging part of my trip from the physical endurance viewpoint.

We travelled overnight by train from Mumbai to Ahmedabad. We had sleeper accommodation, 2nd class with air conditioning. The constant stopping of the train and changing of passengers in our compartment made sleep fitful at best.

After eight and a half hours we arrived and had time to freshen up and change before making our way to the British Library in Ahmedabad where we were afforded our customary warm welcome (Thank you British Council). Interviewing and counselling began soon after.

When we leave here at 6pm we will go directly to the airport and fly back to Mumbai (there are no appropriate direct flights to Kolkata). We will be in Mumbai airport about 6 hours before connecting to Kolkata in time to interview and counsel once again.

In these situations it is difficult to concentrate and focus but it is the point where focus is most critical so that things do not go wrong.

For potential students reading this there will be quiet times during the application, acceptance and enrolment process. There will also be frenetic times where everything seems to be needed at once, preparation of all documents, arrangement of funding, taking English tests where appropriate, completing visa application forms, organising air flights and numerous other tasks.

You must remain focused on your goal to make sure you get it right and thus avoid ultimate disappointment. Talk to our representatives, check procedures with me or our registration team.

For our February enrollees your challenging time is just beginning. Good luck.
Andy Cartwright, 19/11/2010

I was in a taxi in Mumbai yesterday going from the British Council office to the hotel. The taxi driver had the address and we started out on what we were told was a 20 minute journey.

About 40 minutes later it became clear that although close to our destination we were lost. We stopped and asked directions and people were happy to advise.

We went round in small circles for a further 40 minutes asking different people each of whom gave us different directions with certainty that they knew the hotel. We did make it but the 20 minute journey took nearly 2 hours. A map and accurate advice was what we needed.

If you are in business (either working in a company or for yourself) your map is your qualifications, the things that give you direction.

My belief is that the best “map” that one can have is an MBA/ MSc (management) giving direction in all areas of business.

The accurate advice comes from the one’s you can trust. That is why I travel around the world giving potential students advice on GSoM courses helping to establish a trust that will last forever.

We carefully select our representatives and trust them to help our potential students. With good advice and a good map you will get to your destination on time and hopefully unflustered.
Andy Cartwright, 17/11/2010

I am in India now and rushing from place to place as you can see from my itinerary. Please make an effort to see me here.

I have found that everything is done in a hurry in India. My advice in the case of planning for UK studies is to allow plenty of time as the process can take some time.

For our February intake there is no time to lose at all. Applications should be received by the end of November at the latest with all the relevant documentation. This will enable everybody to work towards getting you in a position to apply for your student visa in early January and allow you to start your studies on time in a relaxed frame of mind.

Remember I will be in Mumbai (16th), Ahmadebad (18th), Kolkata (19th), Hyderabad (20th), Bangalore (22nd), Erode (23rd/24th), Coimbatore (25th), Cochin (26th/27th) and Chennai (29th) where I am looking forward to meeting up with our new representatives.
Andy Cartwright, 15/11/2010

I’m sure you’ll agree not the most conventional way of conducting interviews. However I saw several potential students in this delightful setting.

I suspect that all will come and study with GSoM for two reasons. The first is the very fact that they were prepared to stop everything and travel to the airport to meet me shows a burning desire.

Secondly, the fact that I was prepared to use my transit time to seek them out hopefully made them realise the GSoM commitment to student service. We all had a really relaxed time ending with the students exchanging mobile numbers so they can keep in touch during the application process.

Maybe I should sit under trees more often.
Andy Cartwright, 09/11/2010

While in Accra I was unable to access my e.mail system. As a result a number of interested students were unable to contact me.

I will be returning to Accra on Tuesday 9th of November in transit to Hyderabad via Dubai. I have to be in Accra for about seven hours.

I propose to station myself in the open air restaurant just outside the International Terminal Building underneath the huge tree. I am available to chat informally to those that have missed me.

Since I made this offer by mail I have had 4 who wish to take me up on it.

Again I’m gratified that I may in some way be of assistance.
Andy Cartwright, 08/11/2010

A busy trip to West Africa is coming to an end. Many thanks to all the prospective candidates all over Nigeria and Ghana who made the effort to see me and hear firsthand the great things that together you and GSoM can achieve.

Accra was particularly amazing this time round with so many people visiting.

Thanks to Bayo Orefuwa who organised the entire trip and got you all to me. He will be following up everything when I leave. Apologies to those in Mali for not making it this time around but rest assured I will be there. Watch this space.

Finally some personal reflections. As anybody who has met me in West Africa knows I love the places, the people and above all the spirit here. I have had frustrations with airlines, power , telecommunications, the internet.

These are far outnumbered by the genuine joy of those preparing for their studies at GSoM. I’ll share one comment from a mother of a current student received by text today “ God bless you Andy. You mentored and inspired Ruby without minding. Today she is a success. How can we repay our indebtedness to you”.
Madame you just did.

See you in India.
Andy Cartwright, 07/11/2010

The Nigeria leg of my trip is coming to an end. I’m finishing off here in Lagos and have just got Benin City to go tomorrow.

On Wednesday evening I travel to Accra. I have been really happy with the response of prospective students there. Remember please I’m in the Alisa Hotel(Pegasus) North Ridge interviewing Thursday 4th Friday 5th and Saturday 6th. Thursday is already busy with appointments so those coming without appointments should think Friday and Saturday.

You’re all very welcome.
Andy Cartwright, 31/10/2010

I’m sitting in my hotel room in Lagos, watching the rain come tumbling down and listening to the thunder crashing all around. I’m thinking that this could totally disrupt my day. Interviewees will be delayed, some may not make it at all.

There are always unexpected things that happen in life to divert us from our course or make us review our plans. It’s why I tell potential students that it is never too early to make an application for GSoM courses or start to get ready to travel because one never knows what may happen tomorrow to disrupt one’s schedule.

It’s easy to put things off until tomorrow but better to do them today (even if it is pouring with rain).
Andy Cartwright, 31/10/2010

I’m now in Abuja.

In September last year on my first trip here I met with a gentleman who was full of enthusiasm about the prospect of joining us for the next session. On my next trip he again arrived, this time with less of an excited expression. Things were not going well and he thought he must put everything on hold. I honestly thought that would be the last I saw of him although he continued send me regular e.mails.

Today though, as soon as I returned from breakfast there was a knock at the door the opening of which revealed his beaming face. "I’m ready" he declared as he thrust his application and attachments into my hand.

I am delighted for him and I hope his efforts bring him the rewards they deserve. The gentleman concerned is in his 50th year and he hasn’t given up dreaming of educational advancement. He is not an isolated case either I have seen several who keep in touch in the certain knowledge that one day they’ll make it.
Andy Cartwright, 29/10/2010

Have just managed to get back online again after 2 days of “Internet Service Provider” issues here in Lagos. I spent the day in our office on Victoria Island seeing some exceptional students yesterday.

We had no power all day which made life interesting but it did not dampen the spirits of students or staff. . If you live or work in or close to Lagos then please drop in to our Lagos Office to deliver your application forms and collect our prospectuses.

I had a very exciting “first” for me and possibly GSoM in Ikeja. I interviewed twins who want to study on our BSc programme starting in February. I was particularly pleased , as I am a twin myself and I know how special the relationship between them and how keen the rivalry. I wonder if it could be a first set of twins at the School.

Have now arrived in Abuja and expect a busy couple of days here.
Andy Cartwright, 28/10/2010

Hi, everybody, I’m travelling again! I arrived in Lagos on Saturday night and was hard at work all day Sunday. My colleague Bayo and his team have been busy arranging appointments so I suspect that I will seeing plenty of prospective students here in Nigeria.

I’m in Ikeja and on Victoria Island before flying to Abuja and Benin. Please take the opportunity of visiting me call 08053588797 or 08023913271.

I’m visiting Mali this time. It will be my first time there. GSoM have a number of delightful students from there so I’m looking forward to it.

Nigeria never ceases to amaze me with the enthusiasm and genuine warmth that everybody shows towards me. The people I see have an unquenchable thirst for education which is refreshing. Check my itinerary in West Africa and come and see me you’ll be most wecome.
Andy Cartwright, 25/10/2010

Having been nearly 7 weeks on the road it’s time to reflect.

I have lasting fantastic memories of doing things for the first time, meeting interesting people in many varying surroundings. I’ve learned new things about people and places. The downside is that I’ve missed my family, friends and colleagues and therefore with a tinge of regret at leaving India bound for England I will be looking forward to getting back home again, but eagerly anticipating the next adventure.

Life is an education. It’s never going to be 100% good or bad. One has to grasp opportunities, take chances and battle hard. It certainly gives me enormous strength to listen to the determination of some of our prospective students and I hope sharing with you my experiences makes you more relaxed about coming to the UK.

I’m going to leave you with one anecdote. I was engaged in conversation with a business man who was frustrated that he could not get an overseas partner to help him expand his business. During the conversation he kept saying “I couldn’t get people to realise we don’t do it like that over here.” An international education developing international ideas makes the whole world “over here”. I’m sure that would have made my business friend’s task simpler. Think GSoM today.
Andy Cartwright, 05/08/2010

I am now in Mumbai, home of the “Gateway to India”, a vast city teeming with people and rain as the monsoon season is upon us.

Mumbai may be the gateway to India but education is the gateway to progress for an individual and a nation. GSoM with its 35 years of experience in teaching overseas students can help you walk proudly through that gateway and into a world of increased opportunity.

Our experience has reinforced that small class sizes and personal interaction with tutors breeds success. You too can be part of that success. Contact us here at GSoM and let’s walk through that gate together
Andy Cartwright, 23/07/2010

Arrived safely in Pune after travelling overnight (11 hours) on a sleeper bus from Hyderabad. This was an interesting, sometimes very uncomfortable, journey.

Sateesh and I spent an interesting and productive day at the British Library here. Tomorrow, Wednesday 21st July, we are in the British Council offices in Mumbai and on Friday. We’ll be in the British Library in Ahmedabad. We’d be very happy to see you there.
Andy Cartwright, 20/07/2010

Since my last BLOG I’ve been preparing students for IELTS and putting together partnership arrangements to make it easier for overseas students to come to GSoM. I am now on the road again and I’m currently in Hyderabad having spent three productive days in Manila.

Travelling around the world, working in different cultural environments requires special attributes. I have picked out two that have proved particularly necessary on the latest legs of my travels. As I said I have spent a few days in Manila. After lengthy negotiation over several months I was putting final touches to a partnership agreement. All parties were determined to work through difficulties and come to an agreement. Perseverance was required to make it happen. I am happy that International Student Advisors of Manila, Philippines are now GSoM’s exclusive partners in the Philippines.

I have since moved on to India where I am taking in many large cities on my travels. Patience is required here. Travelling from city to city takes time, meetings don’t always start on time and as a result things cannot be achieved immediately. I profess that patience is not one of my greatest qualities. I am still learning the skill and hope this trip increases my abilities in this area. For most our prospective International students both these qualities are needed in abundance. Patience because nothing ever happens as quickly as one would like and more time needs to be added for preparation. There are many reasons for this including setbacks in making financial arrangements, gaining acceptance from college can take time while qualifications are verified and all documents compiled. Finally applying for a student visa can be frustrating and time consuming and stressful waiting for the outcome. Perseverance too is required to see through all the obstacles that are put in your way on the journey to realise your educational dreams. If you are struggling with things please remember that it will be worth it in the end and all the sweeter for the struggle.

For my part I will try to remember these qualities as I travel to Pune, Mumbai, Ahmadebad, Bangalore, Erode, Coimbatore, Kolkata and Chennai in the coming days and weeks.
Andy Cartwright, 19/07/2010

I have two things to relate to you on my trip into Nigeria. The first concerns a journey of tenacity and resolve. Florence, living in the Far East of Nigeria in Yola could only see me at the weekend( because of work commitments) and therefore had to travel to Kaduna by bus on Saturday. She called me at 6.15am to determine that I had arrived and finding the team already assembled she set off for the bus station. The journey would normally be about 8 hours. It was a very hot day, her bus broke down but she persevered keeping in contact by phone with me to make sure I was still expecting her. She arrived at my door at 9.36pm. She was ready to be interviewed and was grateful that I had waited especially to see her. This young lady will not allow anything to get in the way of her ambition to further her education in the UK and I admire that and know that she will succeed in anything if she continues to strive.

The second is a thought I had while reading an article about Lola Adesoiye, a writer and political commentator educated in the UK and living and working in New York. She was asked where she felt at home and she replied London because it is such a cosmopolitan city that definitely gives you a wider world view. It made me realise that being in London to study does not only provide one with a first class education but gives one a “wider world view” something that cannot be taught but is invaluable to carry into business life.
Andy Cartwright, 18/05/2010

I am in the process of packing up and moving to Abuja this evening. Students are arriving in a steady stream and I have had many enquiries for appointments in Abuja and Benin City. Surprisingly Kaduna enquiries have been slow. I suspect though that by the time I arrive on Friday the phone will be ringing. Don’t forget my number is 08053588797.

It is very interesting visiting different countries how the demand for certain courses differs. In India, for example, it is almost exclusively MBAs and MSCs in Management reflecting the tendency to remain at home for first degree studies. Here in Nigeria there are a far greater number of undergraduate applications as well as, not surprisingly, a huge interest in our ever popular flagship course, Oil and Gas Management. I’ll be back in Lagos for one day only on the 18th May for last minute advice. My next trip will be back to India in July.
Andy Cartwright, 13/05/2010

It seems to have been a busy few weeks since I wrote last. I was caught up in the dust-cloud and my flight from the Far East ended up in Frankfurt and it took four days to get home. I am grateful that I was luckier than some.

We are now moving swiftly towards another enrolment ,our June intake will be arriving early next month and I am back in Lagos giving last minute advice to those about to travel as well as interviewing for September and January. Now that I have been in the job for nearly 9 months and am making regular trips to certain countries I am seeing some potential students for the third time. It is gratifying to know that their application process has been successful and they are ready to travel. This trip I am visiting Lagos and Abuja, regular destinations, and also Kaduna and Benin, cities I have not been to for more than 25 years. All you Nigerians reading please see my itinerary and come and see me.
Andy Cartwright, 12/05/2010

Just to update you all on my activities over the past few days. I have been giving presentations to universities across Tamil Nadu and preparing for IELTS seminars to take place this weekend. GSoM has long recognised the need for good English language skills in order to get maximum benefit from UK education. Now that it has become a requirement by the UK Border Agency for students from countries with English as a second language to display adequate English language ability.

We are showing our commitment to help prospective students by giving seminars in certain locations on the important elements of the IELTS test i.e. writing, reading, speaking and listening. We already have 50 students signed up to attend at the weekend. I am preparing the way for students coming to the UK over the next 2 years. Wherever you are in your current education it’s never too early to start your preparations.
Andy Cartwright, 12/03/2010

I am in Manila the capital city of The Phillipines. The prime purpose of my visit is to attend the EducationUK Exhibition at the Edsa Shangri La Hotel which takes place on Friday 5th and Saturday 6th March.

There will be a collection of educational institutions represented at the fair. They will be meeting people who are interested in fulfilling their educational and career aspirations by studying in the UK for a bachelor or master degree or perhaps a programme of study that is more vocational in nature.

If your are interested in studying a business management programme or indeed one of our professionally related courses, such as the MSc in Oil and Gas Management or a BSc in Management with a Travel and Tourism Pathway please pop down to the exhibition and drop in to the Greenwich School of Management stand.

I look forward to meeting you at the Shangri-La Hotel.
Andy Cartwright, 05/03/2010

There has been much speculation and reporting on the UK Government cutting down on overseas students. The Home Secretary yesterday made it absolutely clear that overseas students were more than welcome to come and enjoy the benefits of the best education system in the world. He stressed the importance of serious students studying in approved Universities and Colleges. In order to ensure this he called on colleges to give regular updates to Government on attendance and he announced an increase in English language skills for students with English as a second language. This new more advanced qualification is the level that GSoM already insists upon.

He did also comment on the ability of students to work. This has been reduced from 20 hours to 10 but only for students on courses below the level of first year degree students. This will only affect a very small percentage of GSoM students. I will be regularly updating you on new developments so keep reading this page. The news is though that absolutely nothing has changed for GSoM’s prospective students.
Andy Cartwright, 11/02/2010

Now the dust has settled on my latest trip and I have time to reflect I would like to make a number of observations.

• The recent closure of High Commissions in Northern India to applications for student visas has highlighted the need for beginning the process earlier, thus being able to iron out any of the difficulties that almost invariably occur and therefore removing the stress involved in waiting for last minute decisions and documentation.
• The hunger for UK education seems to be greater than ever before and we at Greenwich School of Management are well positioned and determined to do our utmost to satisfy that hunger.
• There is no doubt that the British Government are trying to tighten up on immigration into the UK but I must stress that this will only those who are not genuine students. GENUINE students are still very welcome and GSoM is totally committed to genuine students.

I am now looking forward to welcoming all the people who I have met as aspiring students in their home countries as GSoM students in the coming weeks.

See you in London.
Andy Cartwright, 05/02/2010

As usual things have been very hectic. Since my last BLOG I have given presentations at four universities in Tamil Nadu and visited Chennai where I met interested students at the British Council .

Today I fly to Hyderabad to give final advice and encouragement to those who will be travelling to London to start their programmes of study in February.

I want to use this blog to share three things with you. First, whilst in Chennai I met up with two prospective students; one of whom has been following me on my travels via this site. He knew I was in Chennai and he and an (American) friend were interviewed for our MBA programme. Both have excellent English skills as well as good work experience. They are preparing for the June intake . It’s refreshing to know that my blog is helping people to realise that we at GSoM really care about our students. The second thing is that in Erode here in Tamil Nadu we now have a facility to train prospective students for the IELTS examinations and thus give them the required skills to get the best out of their GSoM experience. I will be giving lessons when I am here. Third, I urge students thinking of the June and September enrolments to start early . Our late entries for February are in danger of being disappointed because there is insufficient time to go through the complicated procedures for entry.

So remember, one of the key elements of good management is planning. Start planning now and you will go one step further towards your goal of obtaining an excellent degree in one of the major cities of the world, in a management school that will look after you and do their best to ensure that your stay with us is as enjoyable and as beneficial as possible.
Andy Cartwright, 28/01/2010

I am still in the State of Tamil Nadu, southern India. Yesterday I was invited to a university campus in the city of Erode. I was due to address some final year undergraduate students on the benefits of UK education. The communications lecturer heard of my visit and asked me to give an impromptu lecture to his 2nd year students.

I was met with a sea of eager faces and I talked to the students for about 20 minutes. I outlined how important is has become to be competent in the English language as it is now a worldwide communication system. My audience were keen and attentive; the thirst for knowledge is so great here. One interesting angle that I wanted to stress was that the English spoken in India is often different, both in accent and in vocabulary to the English spoken in the UK, and quite often we find it difficult to understand one another. In fact, even in England people from different parts of the country have communication difficulties at times. That’s the reason we stress the importance of IELTS and why I tell potential applicants to take time out every day to listen to the news on the BBC World Service. It will help you to cope with the transition between English spoken locally and the English that you will hear in your lectures when you arrive at GSoM. Andy Cartwright, 21/01/2010

It’s great to be able to assure all these groups that GSoM has for the last 35 years been able to feed this hunger and is keen to continue to do so into the future.
Andy Cartwright, 14/12/2009

This will be my last entry from Nigeria before I return to Hyderabad. I have enjoyed my short time in Calabar, eastern Nigeria. It is completely different to anywhere else in Nigeria. They are promoting the area as a tourist destination mainly for other Nigerians but also for foreigners. The marina area where we stayed is the centre for this effort. Students travelled for hours to see us; further reinforcing the time and trouble people here take in order to study and advance themselves.

Back in Lagos there was a predictable last minute rush to see us on Sunday morning before we left Nigeria. We are now looking forward to the short 40 minute hop by plane to Accra, Ghana.
Andy Cartwright, 13/12/2009

Hi Sir,

Compliments of the season. Sir i'm grateful to God for all your assistance during your stay in Lagos. Assessing my qualification, advising me and offering excellent advice regarding study in the UK.

I am looking forward to June 2010 when I am believing God that i will come over to your school for my MBA program.

Thank you and God bless
My regard to your family and all your friends worldwide.

It's really good to know that my efforts are appreciated by the students. Good luck, and a Merry Christmas to you all!
Andy Cartwright, 11/12/2009

Two things have happened in the last 24 hours that are worthy of note. The first was an article in the Nigerian paper Business Day that caught my eye . The title of the article was 'Nigerian Child; Today’s Jewel Tomorrow’s Garbage? '. The first paragraph described an eight year old boy who sold sachets of water to motorists on the busy roads of Lagos in order to pay for his education. This made me think of the sacrifices some people have to make to better themselves educationally. We, at GSoM, realise that many of our students struggle financially to come to London that is why we make every pound spent at GSoM work for you with small lecture groups, individual counselling and an administration that is caring and understanding.

The second interesting thing that occurred yesterday was a chance encounter in an African diner last night. I was queuing for my rice, plantain and peppered chicken and I got chatting to a man ahead of me in the line. After some time he recognised me as the senior registrar from GSoM (a position that I held many years ago). Then it dawned on me - I recognised him as a law student from the old days.

Since returning from his studies in England he has become a High Court Judge in the Ekiti region. Imagine the surprise in the the restaurant as a high court judge and an advisor from England suddenly fall into an embrace like old friends. The Judge recounted his happy times at Greenwich and reminded me of some of the lecturers that taught him all those years ago. He mentioned his lecturer, Victor Jordan, who I remembered well. We had a good chat about the old days and about what we are both doing now. It really came home to me why I am here in Nigeria, interviewing and counselling. This man had had a dream and realised it. I hope GSoM helped him in no small part to achieve his academic and career goals.

So I say to all you guys and girls out there; start dreaming and let GSoM do its small part in helping you to make your future dreams come true.

See I told you I had the best job in the world!
Andy Cartwright, 10/12/2009

Last chance this year all you Nigerians to meet and plan your future education. Calabar on Friday and real last minute people Sunday morning in Lagos.
Andy Cartwright, 09/12/2009

We are now comfortably settled into the Rockview Classic Hotel. Students are beginning to visit with questions and problems. Abuja is a fine city, I have some pictures, which I hope the web team will share with you (see below). Thought for the day. Time is running out for those wishing to get enrolled for our February intake. Please make sure you have your deposits paid and your funds in place to make visa application straightforward in January. Remember December is a short working month with Christmas holidays. I’ll write from Ekiti

With this goal firmly in mind when asked, on Friday afternoon, by an applicant to go and meet her sponsor, I agreed as I had no more firm appointments. We set off across Lagos. Two hours, and three mini buses later, we arrived at her brother’s clinic. He is a surgeon and was operating when we arrived. After some time he emerged and was delighted to meet me and affirmed his intention to take care of his junior sister in her studies. She is commencing her MSc in February 2010. He also wanted an application form for his office manager.

The return trip was a little shorter and I arrived back at 6pm. I assure you all of the staff at GSoM endeavour to give you their best at all times. On that subject a big thank you to Chief Bayo Orefuwa, a very old friend of mine, who organises everything I do in Nigeria and accompanies me wherever I go. This trip would be infinitely more difficult without him.
Andy Cartwright, 05/12/2009

He is very bright and determined and his resolve to study will be rewarded I’m sure. Today is Friday and I expect a slowing by lunchtime as many people set off to the Mosque or pack up for the weekend. For me another day in Lagos tomorrow and a short flight to Abuja on Sunday morning. I’m going to Ekiti on Wednesday and we’re trying a slot on the radio to advertise our presence so listen out for that all you Nigerians.
Andy Cartwright, 04/12/2009

Started taking enquiries from early this morning and have already seen three excellent students. Everything is working well internet, electricity etc... Happy days.
Andy Cartwright, 02/12/2009

We duly arrived in Vizag, the 300 miles took eight and a half hours. I’m cursing the damage to the motor vehicle and our UK consular services agent for the drastic change in transportation and schedules. As I arrived 24 hours behind schedule we’ve had to try and catch up. This has proved impossible so I have to re-book to Lagos. As I write the flight 24 hours on is fully booked so I have to go on the earlier night flight with a 6 hour layover in Dubai.

That will be four nights consecutively without sleeping in a bed as tonight we have a twelve hour coach trip to Hyderabad. My job is the best in the world but it gets very tough at times. On the student front we continue to see quality students everywhere and I’m gratified by that. I think that my presence here may just swing the balance when students make their final choice. Continued thanks for the support from London. The people here (as I find all over the world) are friendly and helpful, the food is great and all in all I’m having a terrific time.
Andy Cartwright, 29/11/2009

On our way to Saturday’s venues, Vijayawada and Guntur, we had to go via Warangal by popular demand. En route only an emergency stop prevented us from adding wild pig to our dinner menu. Once safely back in the office I saw several students that I had seen previously. I hope I was able to give them enough guidance and re-assurance about their prospects at GSoM to make them commit their educational future to us. I also saw several other potential students who were disappointed to have missed me first time around. Altogether it was a worthwhile detour. We lost our taxi driver because he had other commitments and as it was a Friday evening we could not find a replacement. Our original vehicle was more seriously damaged than was first thought so it was decided to go by train. The train journey is three and a half hours from Warangal to Vijayawada and we purchased sleeper (first class) tickets on the 11.15pm express. Unfortunately our chosen accommodation was full. The guard would not even allow us in that section. We ended up in a crowded corridor outside the lavatory. (I’m sure that it was only water seeping under the door!) During my three and a half hours I met some fascinating people, some whose English was perfect, others needed hand gestures and improvisation ( and Satish’s help). Some of these folk had a 9 hour journey in these conditions. It was a great experience to look back upon, if less than thrilling to live through. Finally we pulled in to Vijayawada railway station which was heaving with people at 3.30am and checked in to our hotel a 3.45 giving instructions to the night manager for a wake up call at 7.45am.

Today, Saturday, has been quiet from a student perspective just three offers from me and a few timewasters. Tonight we have to travel to Vizag, a journey of 300 miles. This time we’re going by sleeper coach (watch this space for news). Satish is being great although disappointed by today’s turnout and the transport situation. I’m not sure if he believes me when I say I’m loving it. Thanks to all at GSoM who are giving this trip support to make it a success.
Andy Cartwright, 28/11/2009

After a slow start I interviewed some very promising candidates including one University lecturer with an M.Phil who wants to do a PhD. I am pleased to report that the trip seems to be progressing really well. Everybody here is so polite and respectful (more than I deserve I’m sure). Sateesh revealed the full extent of my itinerary today and the travelling between locations is going to be arduous. At 7pm we embarked on another car journey arriving at Karimnagar at around 10.15pm.

At the time of writing I am preparing for the first students of the day. Sateesh tells me we are re-visiting our first destination this afternoon as late arrivals were disappointed not to see me. Obviously good news for GSoM. Then straight to Vijayawada to prepare for tomorrow. Catch you later.
Andy Cartwright, 27/11/2009

I was greeted at 4.30 am by a smiling Sateesh Chowdray (Our agent in this region ) clutching a welcoming bouquet of flowers and whisked one hundred miles to the city of Hanamkonda (India’s roads are quite scary to the uninitiated!).

After half an hour to shower the job began, a constant stream of excited candidates mostly making application to our Wales MBA programme, all ,I have to say, very bright and industrious. Some had the required IELTS level 6 English standard others were awaiting results. Some (around twelve) stayed for the afternoon session when I conducted the GSoM pre-sessional English test. Most did very well and will be an asset to our GSoM Wales programmes.

At the time of writing (5.30 am Thursday) I am waiting for Sateesh to drive me the four hours to our next stop, Nizambad, where the roadshow continues. Thanks to Sateesh’s staff in the Hanamkonda office who were very attentive and efficient.
Andy Cartwright, 26/11/2009

I have just returned from an arduous but most enjoyable trip to West Africa. I visited the cities of Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja in Nigeria and Accra in Ghana in three weeks in the region. It was most productive and I managed to see 116 students. Some of these had already been accepted by GSoM and others who knew of my presence because of this website or as a result of advertisements placed locally. For those already accepted it was useful as potential students have many questions about studying in England. Specifically this time I was able to help with visa issues.

I'm glad to report that of the students who came to see me before submitting visa applications 100% were successful. New prospects were able to get first hand advice and counselling on suitable courses as well as guidance on the entire application and visa process and I look forward to welcoming you all in the coming year. Andy Cartwright