By Nagena Iqbal
Transitioning from University to the Marketing World
Graduating from the University of Derby marked a pivotal moment in my life, catapulting me into the dynamic realm of marketing in industry. Today, as a Digital Executive at McGraw Hill, I want to take you on a journey that began in lecture rooms and now encompasses creating campaigns, decoding data, collaborating effectively, dabbling in web development, and shaping the future of marketing projects.
Building the Foundation at University
Let’s start with where it all began – the University of Derby. My university experience was more than just acquiring a degree; it was about forging the skills, confidence, and network needed to succeed in the real world.
Engaging with the Classroom and Learning by Doing
University taught me that it’s not just about absorbing theories; it’s about applying them in practical scenarios. Active engagement and hands-on learning were at the core of my education. The classroom was not just a place to sit and listen but a platform to experiment and discuss.
Digital Marketing: My World at McGraw Hill
Now, let’s dive into the exciting world of digital marketing, where I wear multiple hats:
Crafting Campaigns Across Various Channels
In digital marketing, creativity is your best friend. My role involves concocting campaigns across a multitude of platforms, from social media to email marketing. The goal? Engage our audience effectively and drive tangible results.
The Power of Collaboration
Success in the professional world hinges on effective collaboration. At McGraw Hill, I’ve learned the art of teamwork, collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. The teamwork skills I honed during group projects and active engagement with lecturers at university have proven invaluable.
Landing Pages and Updates
In the digital realm, your website is your digital storefront. I’m responsible for creating and updating landing pages, ensuring they are visually captivating and optimized for conversions. My understanding of creating creative assets and branding, nurtured at university, have been a real asset.
Providing Insights for Future Activities
One of the most thrilling aspects of my role is contributing my insights to future projects. My education and hands-on experience enable me to offer valuable input that helps shape our marketing strategies – so, when you’re creating a SWOT/TOWS for the billionth time, know it will come in handy one day!
The Art of Marketing Planning
Strategic planning is the cornerstone of marketing. From setting objectives to outlining the path to reach them, my university education equipped me with a robust foundation in understanding marketing planning.
Communicating and Meetings
In the professional world, effective communication is non-negotiable. Whether I’m presenting campaign results to stakeholders or participating in team meetings, my ability to articulate ideas and insights was honed during my university years, so don’t be afraid to speak during group presentations, practice makes perfect and you’ll feel so much more confident within your role.
Embrace Your Journey
Transitioning from university life to a career in digital marketing at McGraw Hill has been an electrifying and rewarding journey. The University of Derby equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in my role.
Digital marketing is a constantly evolving field that encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. My university experiences laid the groundwork for these tasks, and I continue to learn and grow in this dynamic industry.
As you embark on your own journey, remember that your university experience is the launchpad for your future career. Dive into classroom engagement, seek practical learning opportunities, and build your confidence in your skill sets. The digital marketing world is ripe for passionate professionals like you to make a significant impact.
So, with determination and enthusiasm, pursue your aspirations. The transition from university to the professional world may present challenges, but with the right mindset and a robust foundation, you can thrive in the exhilarating field of marketing, or any other business role. Your journey has just begun, and the possibilities are boundless. Best of luck!
By Nagena Iqbal (alumni)