What attracted you to your course at RGU?

Having studied graphic communication and having a master’s in marketing, I was looking for a course that would allow me to combine both studies; I was searching for different schools and courses and came across RGU. I read about MSc Digital Marketing, the curricula and advantages the course has and decided to apply. I wanted a master that would allow me to use my creativity and would teach me new ways of creating media campaigns and how to follow and measure them. Having studied this course has rewarded me with the knowledge and experience I didn't have.

Before coming to RGU, what were your expectations? And now that you are here, have your experiences differed?

I didn't have many expectations about the course, I was just excited to see what it was about and how the lectures would be; I soon realised the education system is very different from Mexico, as there is a lot of self- study and self-teaching, and it was something I had to learn to do. The classes were very industry-focused and practical, there is theory involved of course but the main point of the course is to teach students how to navigate the industry and help us acquire experience from the start so the "jump" from school to work won't be so drastic. I was also surprised to see how the school balances studies and work, it allows students to have free time so they can have part time jobs or enjoy the city.

What I really liked about the school is how modern and technologically savvy it is, it's surrounded by the River Dee and the forest, so the views from the buildings are beautiful.

What’s the best thing about being an RGU student?

The best thing for me has been how much help the school gives to the students, from free gym membership and mental health guidance to study and library sessions, the school is always open and has experts ready to help you with whatever it is you need. Also, being able to meet people from different parts of the world and getting to learn about new cultures and traditions.

The school has many events during the year, so you can go and learn new things; there are also many societies you can join and meet new people.

Describe your favourite memory of RGU so far?

My first semester I stayed in one of the school's accommodations and we were offered a trip to Glasgow, I went with 2 of my flatmates and got to see a little bit of the city.

Overall, I think meeting all my friends and classmates, I've met people from Nigeria, Pakistan, The Netherlands, India, France..., I have learned from all of them and have made very good friendships along the way; additionally, having the opportunity to show them some of my Mexican traditions, our history, language, food, etc. Everything was very rewarding for me.

Tell us about your most challenging or rewarding project, assignment or module. What did you like or dislike about it and how has it helped you?

The most difficult one was an assignment we did for Digital PR, we were put in teams of 10 people, and we had to work together to create a PR campaign for a company. It was challenging because everybody comes from different places and is used to do things their way, we had to really communicate and reach an agreement to deliver an excellent and professional work. The project taught me how to communicate my ideas as well as being patient; on top of that, it brought me closer to some of my classmates (we all went out to celebrate afterwards and it was one of the best nights I've had here in Aberdeen).

What is your favourite way to spend your time when you are not studying?

I like to go to the beach and walk by the beach front listening to the waves, also the River Dee is one of my favourite places. I'm from the north of Mexico which is a desert area, so being able to see the sea and the river is something I didn't know I would enjoy so much. If I'm not at the beach I'm mostly hanging out with my friends, going for coffee or reading or enjoying a pint of beer. If I can, I go to a different city on the weekend and do some sightseeing.

What would you say to someone considering studying at RGU? Any advice you would share?

Be ready to do a lot of self-study and research, and be open minded, you will meet people from all over the world so take the opportunity to get to know them and learn from them about their traditions and culture. Don't come with big expectations, just enjoy being in a new city full of culture and beautiful architecture. Assist to the events the school offers and join a society, you will make new friends.

Learn about the transport and healthcare systems beforehand, how to open a bank account, the best supermarkets to buy groceries and the discounts for students, come prepared for the cold and rain, be ready for the short winter days and long summer days.

What do you enjoy most about living in Aberdeen (city, food, people, entertainment, travel, etc.)?

The people here are very kind and helpful, the older people love to ask questions and tell you about how Aberdeen has changed or tell you about places to go. I love how the cities in Scotland are connected and close to one another, you can travel by bus, train or plane. Whenever I have the opportunity, I try to visit new cities close to Aberdeen, it usually takes you 1-2 hours to get there, and you can explore during the day and comeback the same day or stay if you want. Aberdeen is very safe, and you can walk everywhere, and with time you get used to the rain and end up enjoying it.

The food is very different from food in Mexico, but I have found restaurants I like to go to and have tried new cuisines I wouldn't have had the chance to try in my country.

How did you join RGU?

Using an agent - Monica Ruiz Vargas - Across the Pond, Latin America (Mexico City).

Tell us about the Agent that you came through, and your experience of working with them?

My agent was Monica Ruiz from Across the Pond, and she was so helpful! I worked with her for over a year and she was there to help every step of the way, answered all my questions and doubts and supported me with everything I needed. She was always very kind and patient, I felt like she became a friend through all the time we were in contact.