Sofia Mondragon Ruiz

Marketing MSc

I gained the knowledge I need to take my career to the next step.

Why did you choose to study at Kent Business School?

I decided to study at Kent Business School after conducting thorough research and discovering that the course had great ratings. I also heard great recommendations from friends who studied there.

What attracted you to your programme of study?

With a background in microbiology and biochemistry, I was looking to switch to a career that would allow me to be more creative. I chose to study a Master’s in Marketing as no previous knowledge in the subject was required, therefore it would make my career change straightforward. The course also covered quite a comprehensive range of topics and allowed me to choose two modules from a wide range of areas.

What support do you receive as a student at Kent?

During my studies, I received plenty of support with regards to extenuating circumstances and my emotional wellbeing. During Covid-19, plenty of resources have been made available to me from the University and my lecturers.

How does a postgraduate degree differ from your previous studies?

During your postgraduate study you are encouraged to become an independent learner.

What areas of study have you most enjoyed?

I personally enjoyed the integrated marketing communications module as it allowed me to be creative and it also combined many aspects of other modules I liked. 

What are the facilities like in your School and on campus generally?

The facilities at the University are great! I loved the tranquility and ambience of the campus. The library is in the heart of campus and there are plenty of spaces with study rooms available for meetings and group study sessions. The facilities at Kent Business School are picturesque and modern and the lecture theatres and seminar rooms are really comfortable.

Have you used any of the resources provided by the Graduate and Researcher College?

I took part in the Global Skills Award which allowed me to attend numerous extra-curricular workshops and lectures that aimed to provide students with relevant knowledge and the necessary skills to enhance their employability. Additionally, there was a wide range of employability workshops available, and as part of the Employability Points Scheme, I was able to collect enough points to qualify for an internship. 

What are you planning to do next?

I am currently trying to obtain my chartered marketing qualification as well as looking for roles as a marketing executive.

How do you think your studies at Kent will affect your career prospects?

The course equipped me with all the necessary knowledge to take my career to the next step and allowed me to increase my network and to become a chartered marketer upon completion of the course. I have gained skills that will help me become more employable including leadership, time management and more importantly learning to work effectively as part of a team, as most of the modules required group work.

Any advice for those thinking about taking a postgraduate degree at Kent?

My advice to anyone thinking about starting a postgraduate degree is to try and get involved in as much as you can with the postgraduate community as that will help you to have a fulfilling student experience. I would also encourage you to attend extra-curricular activities than can enhance employability.