Emily Oliver

I chose to apply for Graduate Schemes whilst in my final year of study at Northumbria as I wanted to rotate across a number of different roles within my first couple of years of my career. I was specifically interested in Marketing as I enjoyed the Marketing modules at university. I explored this area further by undertaking some work experience at an advertising agency during the summer holidays.

What are you doing now?

I'm working as a Marketing Manager at Morrisons, looking after a team to deliver marketing for our Instore Events and Local initiatives.

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

I chose to study at Northumbria because the course and business school really appealed to me, I specifically wanted a course that allowed me to a do a year abroad.

What was it like studying at Northumbria? 

Studying at Northumbria was very varied - a real mix of lectures, seminar and team projects. I especially enjoyed the Undergraduate Consultancy Project, which I opted for instead of a traditional dissertation. It gave me hands on experience with a real local business.

How connected was your course with industry?

I found that most of my lecturers had real hands on experience within the industry. The Undergraduate Consultancy Project also helped to connect with the industry.

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

I studied abroad in at the RMIT in Melbourne, and Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico; this was an amazing opportunity to learn about business in a new culture. This was hands down the best part of the course and helped give me lots to talk about when applying for jobs.

What was the best thing about your course?

Getting the opportunity to study abroad both in Australia and Mexico.

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

Northumbria is a very well regarded university so I felt it really stood out on my CV. The year abroad and the Undergraduate Consultancy Project in my final year really helped give me something to talk about on my CV and in interviews.

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

I still use a lot of the marketing theories and principles in my job. The course also taught me how to work in a team of diverse people.

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

Studying abroad and the Undergraduate Consultancy Project.

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

I would definitely encourage students to consider the Undergraduate Consultancy Project rather than a traditional dissertation, it really does give you a great opportunity for work experience which will help give you the edge when it comes to applying for jobs.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Rewarding, diverse and fun.