Savita Kraisomsri (Bam Bam)
BA (Hons) Business Management with Marketing, 2021
MSc Digital Marketing, 2022
Thailand
After trying my first presentations, I got valuable feedback on my performance from my teachers, all of which I completely agreed with, and I resolved to follow their suggestions and improve.”
Ever since high school, I have been passionate about marketing, especially video editing and creating advertisements. This interest naturally led me to pursue a degree in Business Management with Marketing. Although I had never studied abroad before, my education agency recommended UWE Bristol because of its strong marketing programme and welcoming environment, making it an ideal place to study and live.
One of my biggest concerns during the application process was the IELTS exam, as I lacked confidence in my English ability. However, I dedicated myself to practicing and preparing for the test, eventually achieving an overall band score of 6, which allowed me to qualify for admission. My parents were very proud of my decision to study abroad because it was a goal I had chosen independently and worked hard to achieve.
In 2020, after completing my pre-sessional course at UWE, I returned to Thailand to study online during the Covid-19 pandemic. Adjusting to online learning was challenging due to the time difference between Thailand and the UK. Some classes took place at 1 or 2 a.m. Thailand time, and exams often required me to stay awake throughout the night.
Despite these challenges, I found the teaching quality excellent. Lecturers were approachable, supportive, and always available through online platforms such as Blackboard and email. In April 2021, shortly before finishing my undergraduate degree, I applied for the UWE Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship. I was thrilled to become the only Thai student in the digital marketing field to receive the scholarship that year. This achievement motivated me to continue my education by pursuing an MSc in Digital Marketing at UWE. In July 2021, I returned to Bristol to prepare for my postgraduate studies.
The postgraduate programme has provided me with opportunities to meet classmates from many different countries, all sharing the experience of studying abroad. The course places strong emphasis on critical thinking, teamwork, and active participation. Students are expected to prepare thoroughly for discussions and contribute ideas in class. This learning style has changed my habits significantly. While I rarely enjoyed reading in the past, I now read regularly and practice presentation skills every day.
One of the greatest improvements I have made at UWE is in public speaking. In Thailand, classroom learning was often teacher-focused, so I had little experience presenting in front of others. Initially, I lacked confidence, but after receiving constructive feedback from lecturers, I practised consistently by rehearsing presentations at home.
Over time, my confidence and communication skills improved greatly, both academically and personally. My studies have also strengthened my interest in digital marketing and advertising. I have developed practical skills using software such as Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Premiere Pro. One memorable project involved creating a movie trailer inspired by Jumanji, which allowed me to combine creativity with technical skills.
Outside academics, I joined UWE Dance and continued practising ballet, which has been part of my life since childhood. I have also enjoyed experiencing different cultures, meeting international friends, and exploring various cuisines in Bristol.
Overall, studying abroad has helped me grow academically, professionally, and personally. It has taught me that adapting to new environments takes time, but the experience and confidence gained are truly invaluable.
