Opinion on MEL Programme
Good day all,
I've (Indian, 24M) been accepted into the MEL programme at RSM for the Oct-26 intake. I've gone through the course structure and career prospects mentioned on their website, but I wanted more insights from someone who's completed the course.
Here's a little about my background:
Mechanical engineering degree from Tier 1 institute in India with 8.88 CGPA, graduated in 2023
Currently working in tanker operations for a UK refinery (based in India though). I have experience in crude oil operations through US/Middle East to UK coast, clean products from UK Coast to Amsterdam region, and in claims management. I have almost 3 years of total work experience
Actively learning Dutch and IELTS 8.5 band
My career intentions after graduation are as follows:
I want to break into chartering or product trading roles in the EU, preferably Netherlands. I do not have hands on experience with trading but I have briefly assisted in trading for biofuels. For the chartering side, I do not have market presence but I have experience in vessel economics and PnL management.
My queries are:
Are my career expectations realistic? What are the roles that graduates with my level of experience usually get?
Is it possible to land trading roles after 2-3 years at Shell? I checked the IND website and did not see Shell Trading as a registered company who provides HSM visas. Does this imply these roles are not open to foreigners?
What are the expected salaries after graduation?
Can I apply to chartering/trading roles outside the Netherlands but within the EU after graduation?
Looking forward to any discussion on this topic. Feel free to DM.
(Edit: added question 4)