Daniel Macdonald

I had completed both Media Studies and Psychology at A-Level and really enjoyed the content of both. Marketing seemed to combine my favourite parts of both subjects and it seemed like a course that I would really enjoy. I was interested by the many different elements involved with marketing, from research to creating social media content. Additionally, I felt that studying a marketing degree would provide me with skills and knowledge that I could directly use in a job and relate to what is happening in the world around me.

After visiting Edge Hill on an open day, I fell in love with the campus. The campus is state-of-the-art and modern, whilst also feeling homely. The tutors at Edge Hill were so welcoming and I have felt so supported by them, throughout my time at university. I also chose Edge Hill due to the friendliness of everyone within the university. Edge Hill is a fantastic place to learn, develop skills and meet new people. I am so thankful that I chose to study here.

Within my degree, I have had to use my initiative and become more independent to complete assignments. I have had to complete research independently, finding out more about new topics that interest me. I have also had to work in groups on several occasions. This has allowed me to develop my communication skills and ability to work in a team successfully. I have really enjoyed meeting new people and working with them to achieve a shared goal. I have had to carefully manage and balance my time to ensure all deadlines have been met for all my modules. I have started research early and planned ahead for my assignments to ensure I have enough time to complete them.

I have been able to work at New Balance as a Lifestyle Merchandising Intern. This incredible opportunity has allowed me to develop valuable skills, meet new people and expand my knowledge of merchandising. I have been able to get involved in conducting market research into product and pricing to understand how New Balance products are positioned in the market, as well as building quantitative data reports to inform future decision-making. I’ve also reviewed samples to help curate a product range for the upcoming season and developed merchandising catalogues. I’m looking forward to developing my skills further as a merchandiser.

I’ve also been able to secure a placement within the Business School as a Social Media Marketing Consultant. This opportunity will allow me to develop my skills and expand my portfolio that can be used when applying for future opportunities.

I like that the content that we learn about within lectures and seminars is often related to recent events, so what we learn about feels relevant and exciting. The tutors make the content engaging and will spend time with you to make sure you understand a topic.

I enjoy getting my work done in the Catalyst, because it is relaxing and allows me to focus. The different floors in the Catalyst allow you to work in the way that is best suited to you. I often work on one of the top floors, because I enjoy working where it is quiet, however the lower floors are a good place for those who do not like it to be completely quiet. I also like getting something to eat at the café in the Catalyst.

My advice to someone studying marketing at Edge Hill is to get involved with extra-curricular activities alongside your course. Try and secure placements, get involved with a society and meet new people. Remember that it is okay to sometimes feel overwhelmed and make sure to ask for support when required. My tutors have been incredibly supportive during my degree, holding revision sessions and spending time to ensure you understand what is being taught. Additionally, UniSkills sessions within the library have provided me with useful skills to succeed at university, such as how to reference correctly and critically think about ideas and concepts.

When I graduate, I hope to secure a job in merchandising or buying, specifically within the fashion industry.