For this Student Spotlight, we spoke with Business and Marketing student, Andressa Ferreira, who shared her experience of applying classroom knowledge to real-world situations. She discussed the support she's received, the skills she's developed and her goals for a successful graduate career.
What made you decide to enrol in an ARU London for an Undergraduate or Postgraduate course?
I decided to enrol in the Business and Marketing course at ARU London because of the support the university gives to its students. The modules are exactly what I need to achieve my career goals as a Marketing Consultant.
What have been the highlights of your course?
The highlight of my course so far has been the opportunity to apply what we learn in the classroom to real-life situations. The assessments are designed not just as simple evaluations but also to prepare us for the challenges we will face in the real world. Through my Personal Development Skills assessments, I have gained valuable skills, including how to present myself confidently in front of an audience and how to identify the necessary steps to achieve my career goals.
Have you been supported by any of our student services? If so, how have they helped you?
I would like to acknowledge the support of Lecturer Donna Guthrie during the Assessment for Professional Development Skills. In our first assessment, we prepared for an interview that included questions about our career path choices. When I chose to pursue volunteering as my initial step, many people did not understand my decision. However, Donna helped me realise the importance of gaining market experience to achieve my dreams. As a result, I applied for a volunteering opportunity as a marketing assistant, which I successfully secured. Today, I am honoured to be a part of the One Community Development Trust, where I can contribute to the community using the skills I have acquired and continue to learn every day at ARUL.
How do you feel this Undergraduate degree will help with your future, or how has it helped?
I believe that this undergraduate degree will significantly contribute to my future success. The skills I have developed so far suggest that if I stay actively involved in the Students' Union, maintain good grades, and consistently listen to my lecturers' advice regarding employment and the work environment, I can envision myself becoming a successful marketer in the future.
What is the best advice you can give to other students to succeed at ARU London?
Get Involved! The Students’ Union and the lecturers should be your best friends during your time at ARUL. View assessments as opportunities to learn new skills and subjects rather than just a way to progress to the next trimester. Also, don't hesitate to apply what you learn in the classroom to real life; you'll be surprised at how many doors this can open for you. To be extraordinary, you need to be bold.