2012
After graduating with a Diploma in Public Relations Management, South African born Matthew Elgie worked in journalism, PR, advertising and marketing in Cape Town and London before moving to the South coast of England.
“My career path had become more advertising and marketing orientated and, as I moved into a management role based in Southampton, I decided to return to study so I could improve my marketing planning and strategic skills.
“I wanted to obtain an internationally recognised marketing qualification to improve my CV and become more confident in my approach to making changes to our marketing strategy.”
Matthew did not waste any time in enrolling on the CIM Professional Diploma in Marketing as a part time student.
“Studying Marketing Communications was a great reminder as to why I got into this industry in the first place, and as a result I am enthusiastic about my career again!
“There was a lot of reading involved in all the subjects – both theory and case studies. I soon found that I was benefiting greatly from the course as I began to implement the good practice I was learning into my daily work activities.
“The most challenging assignments were those requiring research and report writing on products or areas of marketing in which I had no previous experience. I initially found this rather uncomfortable but in the end I feel that I learned more from these assignments than from any others and I believe that this has made me more confident in the broader marketing environment and improved my skills set.
“I am more informed about best practice for professional marketers and better equipped to identify marketing opportunities and important stakeholders. I am now also able to present more qualified reports in order to influence strategy and this enables me to feel more fulfilled in my work.
“Since completing the CIM Diploma I have been promoted to Advertising and Internet Manager for Cunard Line and I am now looking to further my career in online marketing and communication. Therefore I may consider doing the e-marketing course or the next level of the CIM and I would not hesitate to do so at Southampton Solent University.
“I have found the lecturers to be very approachable and flexible. I loved the Library! It was so easy to get work done there with no distractions and the gym was also great value for money!
“It's a modern university, conveniently situated for a great student lifestyle!”