Taanya's Story: One year on from my MSc Marketing & Strategy course

MSc Marketing & Strategy alumna, Taanya Sachdev, shares her reflections on her course experience at WBS one year on.

Born and brought up in New Delhi, India I have always considered myself a true marketer at heart. So, when the opportunity presented itself, I shifted from my original arts background to commerce to further explore my love for marketing. After completing my MSc I used marketing as an outlet to combine all my passions; fashion, food and films!

I am currently exploring the content creation field and nurturing my flair for storytelling. I am a strong promoter of creating immersive brand experiences for people and aim to leave a bit of my essence in every project I work on. My ten-year plan includes exploring marketing in distinct permutations and combinations with AI and Psychology. As someone who thrives on networking and gaining unique experiences, I’m always on the lookout to explore new opportunities and meet new people. 

Why did you decide to study at WBS?

During the last year of my undergraduate degree I decided it was time to further my educational aspirations before I progressed further on the career front. WBS was a major part of my family discussions while growing up as my sister was applying to UK universities for her masters course, however she, later on, decided to opt for another path. But weirdly enough it stuck with me. And, so when WBS popped as one of the best business schools in the UK I was instantly drawn to it. Now I know this sounds a bit dramatic but in all honesty, this is exactly what happened and I truly believe that I was destined to be a part of the WBS family. 

A wide cultural representation was a major deciding factor for me, and the University of Warwick's diverse community including both academics and students made it the perfect fit. Moreover, I was looking for an institution that valued a student’s academic growth and personal development equally and so the wide range of co-curricular activities, societies and opportunities Warwick offered made the decision very easy for me.

Tell us about what your company does.

I am currently working with The Aurora Creative agency, a social media and digital marketing agency.  The agency offers a 360 degree approach to Social Media Management and focuses on developing content that is creative and relevant to a brand’s audience according to a particular social platform. Broadly speaking, we are an all-girl team brainstorming every day on how to crack the new reel trend! 

What does your job involve?

While typically my role of a client servicing manager requires me to deal with clients from a variety of industries such as FMCG, F&B, Fashion & Retail, Lifestyle, Luxury etc., working in a startup means I have to wear several hats at once. I primarily handle social media for clients and work on everything from ideating campaigns, brainstorming on content creation, conceptualising photoshoots, writing copy for marketing communications to managing seamless execution of integrated campaigns. 
 

How did your MSc Marketing & Strategy course help prepare you for your role? 

When I first applied for the course I was more inclined towards the marketing bit of it over strategy. However, modules as strategy management in particular (which went onto become one of my favourite modules) helped me further my knowledge and reassess the concept of marketing as a standalone activity to one which is a wasted effort if not backed up by strategy. 

Gaining an in-depth knowledge of these dual strands helped me understand that seamless integration of the two must be facilitated for one to aim for success. This change in perspective has supported me in efficiently assessing broader implications of the marketing operations and making better-informed decisions at work accordingly. 

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I absolutely love the fact that the nature of my job is very dynamic and requires me to get my creative juices flowing on a daily basis to solve problems. Another aspect of it that excites me is meeting and interacting with new people from various walks of life. I’ve had the opportunity of hosting popular influencers, working for inspiring entrepreneurs and interacting with industry pioneers - all thanks to my organisation. I really enjoy the variety that my role brings, I get to explore my graphic designing skills one day, direct a video the next and pitch in for campaigns on another which really keeps me motivated!  

What were the key takeaways from your course?

In retrospect, as I look back at my journey at WBS I’ve realised that my learnings extend to so much more than just academics. Being a part of a cohort that was so diverse, and not only in terms of ethnicity, but also skills and experiences greatly helped me broaden my perspective, realise my potential better and rethink my goals and ambitions. In some sense, I truly believe that it empowered me to dream bigger and instilled the faith in me to achieve those dreams no matter how far-fetched they seem.

This confidence that I regained during my time at WBS has been a true game-changer for my career. I am constantly looking to better myself - doing courses, reading books and exploring new opportunities which would help me fulfil my aspirations in the future.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying for your course at WBS?

I would say GO FOR IT! The MSc Marketing & Strategy course at WBS is a well-integrated course which on completion will have you looking at the world from a marketer's lens. The modules are structured in such a manner that students get an opportunity to integrate their past experiences and theoretical knowledge and put it to application. It allows them to explore various disciples through intensive projects and assignments and help them get a proper understanding of what their expertise lies in. Moreover, WBS places a lot of importance on group projects which at first many may struggle with but it really prepares one for the real world. Also, the skills and knowledge you acquire are very transferable and can be broadly applied to various industries. 

Lastly, as I mentioned before, as a student at Warwick you are going to take away so much more than academic knowledge. Study hard but network harder! Do take out time to join societies, socialise and network with your peers. This may not only end up in you expanding your network but also befriending people and making unforgettable memories for life. 

Discover more about our MSc Marketing & Strategy course.