My decision as an executive of a middle-position in the beginning of the 21st century to invest in a postgraduate diploma was challenging, but not an easy one. The work intensity combined with the anxiety of fulfilling successfully my educational responsibilities, long time after I completed my 1st degree, summed up to a rather stressful mix. In contrast, studying at the postgraduate course in Marketing & Communication for Executives at Athens University of Economics and Business, proved to be two wonderful and truly revitalizing years that helped me develop a new perspective on business, entrepreneurship and the markets, and gain considerable added value from exchanging knowledge and experiences with my fellow students then, and friends today. It was an unforgettable experience!

Though it has not been my first postgraduate diploma, I had the opportunity to be part of the first student intake of the MSc course in Marketing and Communication with New Technologies, in 1999. There are two memories that spring to mind with great clarity. At first, the truly remarkable team of course instructors, who were well educated, impeccably professional and full of passion and desire to turn the program into a success. I remember each one of them with love and respect. Secondly, the standard of my fellow class-mates. They were a truly wonderful group of individuals that brought to the course a range of highly valuable work experience from a variety of business sectors. I still remember our first meeting with Professor George Avlonitis, pointing out amongst other things, that our combined work experience exceeds 300 years! This kind of experience exchange, in combination with a finely tuned academic curriculum helped us gain invaluable knowledge as well as practical skills that proved of paramount importance for my professional development, since.

My studies in the MSc course in Marketing & Communication will always be an important stepping stone in my life. In contrast with the working arena where you sometimes win and other times you loose, this MSc course is only a winning game. Firstly, because you expand your theoretical knowledge, through a very well structured academic curriculum. Secondly, because you come across new and powerful challenges and at times difficult decisions, that help you develop a stronger personality. Thirdly and most importantly, because you get the chance to build up new relationships and make valuable friendships that can have a very positive effect on the way you approach life in general. Unfortunately time does not go back.

If I had the chance though, I would definitely repeat this fascinating journey with the same group of fellow students (MENT Class 2012-13).