Chakkrit Chootimanwong is studying Innovation and Marketing Management at Strathclyde after working in the food industry in Thailand. Here, he talks about his experience in Glasgow.
What were you doing before you started your MSc Innovation & Marketing Management?
Before coming to Strathclyde, I worked as an export sales manager in the food industry in Thailand. I decided to study an MSc in the UK as it provides practical knowledge and skills that are valuable for progressing my career after graduation.
What made you take the programme? Why choose Strathclyde?
I was doing research about MSc courses in the UK and other European countries. I chose the MSc Innovation & Marketing Management at Strathclyde because of its unique course modules. I only found one course that combines and integrates knowledge of business and engineering.
Nowadays, understanding what the customer wants and needs is possibly not enough. I strongly believe that innovation and technology are key areas that will support business growth. The course is a joint programme between the Department of Marketing and the Department of Design, Manufacturing & Engineering Management.
What has been your experience of the classes to date?
Studying in classes is an awesome experience. The helpful and expert lecturers are always willing to answer any questions you would have.
My classmates are excellent and competent. They come from many different countries and backgrounds. This provides me with a great opportunity to learn about diversity and share experiences.
Working on group assignments can develop my soft skills, such as people skills and time management, which are really significant for my career development.
What are you looking forward to over the rest of your studies?
I am so excited to work on group projects during which students will be doing research and provide marketing consultancy to the industry. It's called Marketing Works project and is an important project allowing students to utilise the knowledge they have learned in the classroom and to work and support local, public or private organisations in the real world. Undoubtedly, the learning and experience from this project will be greatly helpful for my future career.
Where do you see the course fitting into your longer aspirations for study/career in the future?
It's definitely true that the MSc Innovation & Marketing Management will help me advance my career. By the end, I will fully understand both marketing and innovation. This will help me cope with customers and relevant departments in order to innovate new products and bring them to the market.
I will benefit not only from the knowledge and frameworks I have studied but also from the communication skills I have gained during the team-based projects.
Is there anything you would especially recommend about the course/classes so far?
Studying for an MSc which is one year is incredibly short. I would suggest to utilise your time as efficiently as you can.
Assignments and exams are very challenging and have deadlines. Time management and teamwork skills are the top priority. Moreover, socialising and hanging out with friends who are from different countries is an awesome way to make friends and learn about cultural differences.
What's it like to be a student at Strathclyde and in the city of Glasgow?
I've been so proud to be an international student at the University of Strathclyde. The University is highly reputable, full of experienced lecturers and helpful staff.
The University is located in the city centre, which is really convenient for student life. It's close to local restaurants, shops, supermarkets, transport links, and attractions.
Lastly, I can’t forget to mention the friendliness of local Scottish people in Glasgow. I am not sure how to describe how happy I am to have spent one year studying here.
What advice would you give to prospective students?
I would suggest doing research about course modules, especially what you will learn and learning methods, as much as you can before choosing your degree.
The counselling team at the University are willing to help you and provide the information you want.
In addition, you can also contact student alumni of your home country to get contact details of graduated students to gain insight from them. They are more than happy to help you!
