"The flexibility of the programme, combined with the global perspectives of my classmates, has made this a truly transformative learning experience."
—Melina Gkiolma, sustainability consultant and RSM learner
I'm Melina, originally from Athens, Greece, and I work as a sustainability consultant at Kōan, a boutique consulting firm in Amsterdam. For the past five years, I've helped organisations navigate sustainability reporting requirements and adapt to evolving regulations across Europe and beyond. I'm also currently studying the Online Master in Sustainability Management at RSM.
Why did you choose to study an online master through RSM?
I was looking for a part-time, online programme because I wanted to continue working full time while advancing my knowledge and academic background in an area where I can see myself building a long-term career. This programme seemed like the perfect fit because it met all the criteria I was looking for.
How do you approach your studies, on top of a full-time workload?
I admit that returning to academic study after several years in the workplace was a little challenging at first, but I've found a balance that works for me. I try to join the live class every week, and I usually study after work because I'm already in a productive mindset. I also spend some time studying at weekends, although I think it's important to make time to relax as well.
Because the programme is fully online, I've been able to continue learning whether I'm at home, travelling for work or visiting my family in Greece. The programme managers have also helped me stay on top of the workload by sending weekly updates about upcoming activities and assignment deadlines, which has been incredibly useful.
What are the best aspects of the online master?
One of the biggest surprises has been the real human element of the programme. People often assume online learning can feel impersonal, but my experience has been the opposite. Through live classes, discussion forums and informal virtual coffee chats, I've built strong connections with classmates from around the world.
In fact, I would say the international cohort is one of my favourite aspects of the programme. It's eye-opening to hear about people's different experiences depending on where they live and their different professional backgrounds. It makes for very insightful discussions. Everyone comes from a different background, bringing unique perspectives. We have learners from almost every continent, making the programme far more global than I expected.
I've also valued being able to apply learnings directly to my work. For example, recently a new client came to my work asking for help setting key performance indicators (KPIs) for carbon emissions. Earlier in the year in the master’s, we had a similar assignment developing KPIs for a logistics company. I was able to use the information I had studied and researched for that assignment to help set my client's KPIs in real life.
The master’s has also helped me broaden my horizons in sustainability. Because I work in sustainability reporting, there are many topics I hadn't explored in depth before. One module I found particularly interesting focused on ethics and leadership. It made me reflect on what I want to stand for in my work, my moral compass, and the purpose behind the things I do. It really got me thinking.
What’s your advice to future learners on the course?
Be kind to yourself. Working full time while studying for a part-time master is a significant challenge, but you can find the balance that works for you.
And remember, pursuing further education while advancing your career is a major achievement in itself.
Does this sound like a career-boosting step for you? Applications for the Online Master Sustainability Management are open now for our cohorts starting in 2027. Find out more about the programme and apply now.
