What was your ENU experience like - which campus were you based at and what did you like about it?
Kary: I was based at the Craiglockhart campus. I like the unusual looking egg-shaped lecture hall - the view is amazing; it is like studying in a modern art centre.
I also like the fact that there is a silent room inside the library, so when I really needed zero disturbance I would use that room, and when I wanted to socialise I would use the computer space elsewhere. Moreover, I like that the campus is very inclusive, I could see people from different countries all in one class.
Jackie: I studied BA(Hons) Mass Communications, Advertising and Public Relations, and was based at the Merchiston campus. I liked the fact that it is so close to the city centre, as it gave me more flexibility to arrange regular meetings with clients in the centre (for some of my modules). The Jack Kilby Computing Centre (JKCC) that operates 24/7 was great too, it is equipped with many computers and booths for group discussions and late-night work.
Did you take part in any clubs or societies and if so, have you joined any ENU alumni societies or communities since graduating?
Kary: I was the Vice President of the Edinburgh Napier Chinese Society for three years and organised various culture exchange events/food festival/induction talks for Freshers in different campuses, and in the Bainfield student accommodations. I also joined the Volleyball Team, International Society and Pool Society. Apart from clubs and societies, I was an International Student Ambassador for 4 years and a Resident Assistant for 2 years. These experiences gave me opportunities to meet and work with people in different campuses, so I have friends who studied music/computer/engineering/science too. After graduating, I joined the alumni group on LinkedIn, as I hope to connect with other alumni in the future.
Jackie: I was Edinburgh Napier student ambassador, elected Merchiston campus officer of Edinburgh Napier Students’ Association (ENSA), elected BAME students committee of the National Union of Students Scotland (NUS), committee member of the Edinburgh Napier Chinese Society, and resident assistant of Edinburgh Napier accommodation. There were not many alumni events after I graduated because of Covid, however recently I have taken part in congratulating Edinburgh Napier recent graduates through a short video. I also joined the alumni group on LinkedIn to keep in touch with Edinburgh Napier and its alumni.
What have you been up to since graduating - what was your first role and what are you doing now?
Kary: I graduated during the start of Covid, so it’s been very difficult to find a permanent job. However, I found an eight month contract role as an Account Executive in a marketing agency. After that I landed a permanent role as a Paid Search Specialist, managing Google Ads accounts in a digital marketing agency. I’m very passionate about search engine marketing so I am very happy with my role now, as this is the area I wanted to work in.
Jackie: I worked as a Partnerships Coordinator at the China UK Development Centre in Cambridge after I graduated. Two and a half years later, I was promoted to Operations and Partnerships Manager. My role focuses on building partnerships and business development which requires excellent communication skills.
What one piece of advice would you give to someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Kary: Join networking and careers events - meet people who are already working in the industry you’re interested in and ask them questions about their company culture and their experience. Also, take the free Google certified online training courses on Google Skillshop/Digital Garage if you’re interested in digital marketing.
Jackie: Build your work portfolio early - include meaningful campaigns/projects you were involved in and explain what you have done. For someone who doesn’t have much experience, try to include events you have attended and share your insights/takeaways.
What was it like studying at the same university as your sister?
Kary: The best thing is that we were based at different campuses, so we would share news of our home campuses, of any pop-up events, showcase events, charity sale etc. It felt like I also belonged to Merchiston because Jackie was there.
Jackie: We studied at different campuses, but sometimes I would visit Craiglockhart campus and Kary would come to Merchiston campus so we could work together. It was nice to have a sibling around as we have mutual/non-mutual friends at both campuses, and it helped to expand our social circle.
And finally, what do you like most about your sister?
Kary: Jackie is the most reliable person, she always listens to my problems, encourages me and supports me. I don’t know how we managed, but we chatted for 3 hours in the kitchen last week. I’m very grateful to have a best friend since day one.
Jackie: Kary is my best friend, she is a very supportive, smart, funny and kind person. We are identical twins, but we have different personalities, strengths and weaknesses, and preferences. We share a lot every day and we always learn from each other. She motivates me to be a better person.
Published on Siblings Day, April 2022