Yuki Ariga
MSc Marketing, 2022
Japan
I feel that studying this programme will benefit me in my career ambitions through both the knowledge that I’m acquiring and the doors that can be opened through the possession of the degree itself in the future.“
Studying abroad has always felt like a natural path for me, as my life and interests have long been international. My older sister inspired me early on through her passion for learning English and later by studying in the United States. Watching her experiences motivated me to pursue a similar path. I chose International Studies for my undergraduate degree, which included a year abroad, and I studied in Norway as an exchange student. After graduating, I worked at a travel agency in Tokyo before joining the Japanese embassy in Estonia, where I spent two and a half years assisting diplomats and supporting international relations. I enjoyed building connections between Japan and other countries, but over time I realised I lacked a professional specialisation. To develop a clearer career path, I decided to study marketing.
My long-term goal is to live and work in Europe, ideally in a marketing role connected to Japan. When searching for universities, I needed a programme that accepted students without a marketing background, and UWE Bristol offered exactly that opportunity. The UK’s post-study work visa also made it an attractive option for my future plans. These factors convinced me that UWE would be the best place to help me achieve my goals.
Although I had visited the UK before, living there was a new experience. I chose accommodation near Frenchay Campus because the quiet environment helps me focus on my studies while still allowing easy access to the city centre. Adjusting academically after a five-year gap was challenging, especially as it was my first time writing essays in English. At first, academic writing and critical analysis were difficult, but I gradually improved through practice and support from academic writing courses offered by the university. These courses helped me understand how to write critically rather than simply describe information.
The teaching style at UWE has also been very different from my previous experiences in Japan. My undergraduate lectures were large and lecture-focused, with little discussion or interaction. At UWE, classes are smaller and highly interactive, with regular group discussions and presentations. I prefer this student-centred approach because it encourages active participation and deeper learning.
Outside of class, I have made friends both at university and through language exchange activities. I regularly meet with a language partner I found through a Facebook group for Japanese learners. While I considered joining the dance society because of my background in dance, the demands of my master’s programme have required me to prioritise my time carefully.