An Interview with Monica Molesag,
Newcastle University Business School Graduate
Monica is a 22 year-old BA Media and Communications graduate now studying MSc International Marketing at Newcastle University. During her time as a student she has been involved in numerous extra-curricular activities such as a student ambassador, student rep, being part of the TV society and working as an office temp at the university. In addition to these activities Monica has undertaken numerous work experience placements and roles in marketing where she wants to develop.
Why did you decide to study for a Master’s degree?
Applying for further study felt like the next natural step in my development, as I wanted to build on the skills and knowledge gained from my Media, Communication and Cultural Studies degree and specialise in Marketing Communications. Having worked in the industry since my second year, I knew that I wanted to study Marketing more intensely and complement my knowledge of Communications with a strong expertise in Business.
How do you expect the Master’s degree to help you achieve your goals?
My long-term career goal is to study for a PhD in Marketing Communications and bring innovation to the field through my research. Before pursuing this I plan to work in higher education marketing for a few years following my MSc, which this programme will hopefully facilitate as I am currently writing my Master’s dissertation on this topic. Even if my career plans change, I am confident that the variety of skills gained from this course will greatly benefit me in any situation and will help me build a successful career.
What were the most important aspects you considered when choosing your Master’s course?
Funding my Master’s was one of the main drivers towards this specific programme. I chose Newcastle University Business School because of its good rankings and because they offered me a scholarship for my academic achievements as an undergraduate. This contributed greatly to my decision, alongside other factors such as the great range of extra-curricular activities available at Newcastle, its award-winning Careers Service and multi-cultural, vibrant city. The greatest challenge was doing extensive research on the different alternatives I could choose from and deciding which one fitted me best. This included online research, visiting Open Days and speaking with academic staff who advised me on different options.
How would you describe the learning environment at the Business School?
Newcastle University Business School is a great environment to study Marketing because of its quality academics, its multi-cultural community and the varied opportunities to acquire work experience and enhance your network. Since the very beginning staff have been very friendly and eager to help, and excellent one-to-one advice is available from tutors and supervisors at any time. Finally, the facilities offered by the school are great, from IT clusters to modern study spaces which make studying here that much more enjoyable.
How does the programme’s content prepare you for the profesional world?
This particular programme offered a great insight into business practice through a variety of assignments which involved developing new products, creating marketing communications plans and undertaking market research. In addition, Newcastle University Business School provided a good mix of lecturers from a variety of backgrounds, both academic and professional. This has proved very useful as we were offered different perspectives on marketing theory and how it actually translates into practice. Now I feel even more prepared to work in the industry.
