Pauline Clara Dernikoghossian

Choosing UWS London felt like a natural step. The one-year MBA with a specialisation in Digital Marketing aligned perfectly with my background and career goals. With experience in social media, I was looking for a programme that would not only build on what I already knew but also push me to think more strategically and expand my skill set. As I explored the modules, I felt reassured that I had made the right decision, as the content was both relevant and aligned with where I wanted to go professionally.

During my studies, I developed a broader and more in-depth understanding of digital marketing. While I was already familiar with some areas, the programme introduced me to new concepts that helped me become more well-rounded and confident. One of the most impactful aspects for me was discovering paid media through the Digital Marketing Strategy module. Previously, my focus had been mainly on organic content, so this added a completely new dimension to my knowledge and way of thinking.

The learning environment played a big role in my experience. The lecturers brought diverse industry insights and created a supportive atmosphere where I felt comfortable asking questions and engaging in discussions. That openness made a real difference in how I approached learning and allowed me to go beyond surface-level understanding.

I didn’t wait until graduation to start applying for jobs. As soon as I settled in London, I began looking for part-time opportunities. One of the first things I noticed was how competitive the UK job market is. Seeing the number of applicants for each role can feel overwhelming, but at the same time, I realised that London offers a wide range of opportunities if you approach your search strategically.

I targeted roles where these skills were in demand, which helped me differentiate myself from other candidates. At the same time, I made a conscious effort to network on campus, introduce myself to people, and get involved in different activities. A key turning point came when I participated in an International Women’s Day campaign. Through that experience, I connected with the team at The Education Group London, which eventually led to my first role as a Social Media Coordinator. It started as a part-time position, but it gave me valuable UK experience and allowed me to apply what I was learning in a real work environment.

I continued building on that experience, learning as much as I could and refining my skills. Over time, that role developed into a full-time position. Looking back, I truly believe that my previous experience in Lebanon played a key role in this transition. It gave me a strong foundation and helped me adapt more quickly to the expectations of the UK market.

Like many students, I experienced moments of self-doubt along the way. There were times when I felt outside of my comfort zone, especially when studying modules that were new to me, such as finance. Instead of avoiding those challenges, I chose to face them by putting in extra effort and seeking support when needed.

I focused on my strengths while working on my weaknesses, which helped me stay motivated and continue progressing. Today, I work in digital marketing and content creation at The Education Group London. What I enjoy most about my role is creating content that resonates with students, particularly international students. Having been in their position myself, I understand their concerns, questions, and expectations. This allows me to create content that is not only engaging but also meaningful and supportive. Being able to contribute to their journey is something I am genuinely proud of.

Looking ahead, my goal is to continue growing in the digital marketing field and establish myself as a strong social media professional in the UK. I am still exploring which industry I want to specialise in long term, but I am confident that with the right mindset and determination, I will achieve my ambitions.

During my time at University of the West of Scotland, I quickly realised that success is not about doing everything at once, but about working smart and staying consistent. Breaking tasks down into manageable steps and prioritising them based on deadlines helped me stay organised and in control, whether it was coursework or major projects.

I also learned that asking questions is a strength, not a weakness. Being curious and willing to seek clarification allowed me to engage more deeply with my studies and gain a better understanding of the material. Collaboration was equally important. Working with others, sharing ideas, and learning from different perspectives helped me think more creatively and approach challenges in new ways.

Taking care of my well-being was another important lesson. I made time to rest, recharge, and pursue hobbies outside of my studies. Maintaining that balance helped me stay focused, mentally clear, and productive.

When it comes to building a career, staying open to learning beyond your degree is essential. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone and explore new opportunities. In a competitive job market like the UK, continuous learning is key. I made it a priority to develop my skills through free resources, seminars, and networking opportunities.

Today, I stand proud not only as a graduate of University of the West of Scotland, but also as someone who has been able to give back. I hope to show that no dream is too big, regardless of where you come from.