MSc Marketing student, Marianne Kirsop, talks about her experiences studying at Edinburgh Napier
Tell us a bit about yourself
After graduating in Photography & Film from Napier in 2015, I spent time exploring different creative practices, utilising skills which I had developed throughout my undergraduate course.
I volunteered at galleries and museums and worked in customer facing roles, which have involved visual merchandising, menu creation, brand promotion, and marketing.
Through my work experience, creative and otherwise, I discovered that I am particularly passionate about marketing, and for that reason I chose to pursue the subject at MSc level.
Why did you choose Edinburgh Napier?
As the marketing industry is ever evolving, I was particularly keen to study at an institute where the latest industry- and practice-driven techniques are utilised.
What attracted you into studying your course?
The innovative course modules, as well as the strong industry links of the MSc Marketing degree at Edinburgh Napier University greatly appealed to me.
Has your course given you any practical opportunities out-with standard teaching?
In recent trimesters, we have had the opportunity to sit in on guest lectures, I appreciate the organisation that goes into setting up guest lecturers, especially in today’s pandemic. I feel that by having the lectures online they are highly accessible - I think that I have attended more guest-lectures online than I would have in person, because of locations and timings.
Have you had any highlights studying at Edinburgh Napier?
I have appreciated the facilities available, including the Jack Kilby centre and the libraries. Napier also provide excellent academic workshops, I have found the workshops to be highly beneficial and have really helped me with my writing skills.
Have you faced any challenges?
I was worried about studying online (I had intended to study in person, before COVID hit), however it has worked very well. I feel that every effort has been put it in to ensure things go as smoothly as possible.
Would you recommend the course to others? If so, why?
Yes, I would recommend this course, because I think that the range of modules provide an excellent base of marketing skills and knowledge. In addition, there is an optional module in trimester 2 where you are able to choose a specific area you are interested in, for example I have chosen ‘Digital Marketing Strategy’- as I think that this module will be most beneficial in terms of reaching my goals.
What key skills have you learned from your university experience?
I’ve developed my organisational skills, to manage my workload. I have also learnt to think critically, to present and discuss theories and ideas before implementing them in my work. This has included group work, essays, and tutorials.
Can you sum up your student experience living in Edinburgh?
When I first moved to Edinburgh to study, I was impressed with the culture of the city- national museum and galleries, as well as the many smaller galleries, museums and free events.
The city is ideal for students to explore, there are so many free events and nature spaces, in the city you can walk; up Calton hill, Blackford hill, Arthur’s seat, or go further out by bus to the Pentland Hills, Cramond Island, or various beaches.
There are also lots of student-budget friendly bars and cafes throughout the city.
What advice would you give to anyone considering study the course?
I would say read around the topic a lot, but also follow people on social media who work in the industry you are interested in. You will get an insight to the kind of work they do, find out about trends and contemporary issues in the industry and you will gain new perspectives.
Also, identify the kind of job you want to work in after graduation. Doing this will help you choose the most beneficial modules for your end goals, as well as inform your essay topics and dissertation.