Alumni

Olivia Ball

Career Path: Digital PR Manager, The Property Buying Company
Location: Harrogate, UK

After my studies I knew that PR was the career path for me, and funnily enough I started in social media as a 'foot in the door'. From here I decided to brand out into the world of freelance, before landing a PR Executive role as part of a digital agency, working for a variety of clients, before taking it in-house to The Property Buying Company.

What are you doing now?

I am currently the Digital PR Manager for The Property Buying Company, as well as doing my freelance social media for a few clients of my own.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I absolutely love the city of Newcastle so knew I would feel right at home there, but everything about the business building from the tutors, lecturers, course structure and modules was for me, it was a very easy decision to make for me fortunately, I am very pleased!

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

There was the perfect mix of seminars, team projects and lectures, with plenty of free time for completing coursework or just taking some time for yourself. The tutors were really great at responding to any of my queries so I'm so grateful for that extra bit of help!

How connected was your course with industry?

There was the option to go on placement as part of the course which is great for those wanting to gain a little bit of experience before venturing into the world of work, it always helps to get a bit of experience in before heading into the big wide world as most jobs nowadays seem to want experience before it's possible that you even have it!

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

I personally never went on placement which fortunately didn't hinder my process of getting where I am today, but I know for a fact it would have helped massively in the job application process.

What was the best thing about your course?

I enjoyed the coursework side of the course and mostly taking part in the consultancy project in my final year, I felt it was a great alternative to writing a dissertation!

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

Studying at Northumbria massively helped me achieve my career goals from giving me real life experiences such as studying away from home, taking more responsibility for my time, studying in part of a business school that is world renowned!

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

Organisation, communication and forward-thinking skills.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

I enjoyed the structure of the course the most, it allowed me to spend time prioritising my coursework as well as work a part-time job to allow me to enjoy the city properly with friends!

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

Absolutely do it! You won't look back and you'll have the best time ever, take your time to understand what your course entails and if it's the right pathway for you.