Teaching to Digital Marketing – How Niya Reinvented her Career in the UK

Niya Joy, a creative individual with a background in media and content creation, pursued an MSc in Digital Marketing at Oxford Brookes University, UK. With the support of Entri Fly, she successfully navigated her study abroad journey and transitioned into the dynamic field of digital marketing. In this interview, she shares her experiences, challenges, and advice for aspiring international students looking to follow a similar path.

Q1: Can you tell us a bit about your academic and professional background?

A: Of course! I completed my undergraduate degree in English Literature and Communicative Studies from St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam. My passion for media and communication led me to pursue a Master’s in Visual Media and Communication from Amrita University. During my academic years, I explored various creative fields—video editing, content creation, scriptwriting, direction, voice-over artistry, and even stage performances as a singer. I worked in different roles in local television channels, including as a program producer, which gave me experience in media production. Later, I decided to further my academic journey by pursuing an MPhil and eventually started teaching as a lecturer at St. Paul’s Kalamassery.?

Q2: What made you decide to switch careers and pursue an MSc in Digital Marketing?

Teaching was an insightful experience, however, after some time, I realized that it wasn’t the right fit for me. I craved a more dynamic and evolving career path. While researching potential career shifts, I discovered that many of the skills I had acquired – content creation, audience engagement, storytelling, and media production – were highly valuable in the field of digital marketing. That’s when I decided to pursue an MSc in Digital Marketing.

Q3: How did you decide to study abroad?

A: Interestingly, studying abroad wasn’t part of my original plan. I accompanied my sister to an education expo, as she was considering moving to Canada for higher studies. That’s where I was introduced to the numerous global opportunities available for students. At that time, I was feeling stagnant in my teaching career and wanted a change. Learning about international education systems, career prospects, and the possibility of acquiring global exposure convinced me that studying abroad was the right step for me. Once I had clarity about the field I wanted to pursue – Digital Marketing – I began researching the best places to study. I came across an Instagram advertisement for Entri Fly and decided to reach out to them. Their team guided me through the entire process, from university selection to application submission.

Q4: How did you choose your university, and what role did Entri Fly play?

A: I was very particular about the course and country—I knew I wanted to study Digital Marketing in the UK. When I connected with Entri Fly, they analyzed my academic background and professional experience and provided me with a curated list of universities that matched my profile. I took my time reviewing the curriculum, university rankings, and tuition fees and with the help of their counselors, I narrowed down my options to three universities and applied to them. I received offers from two universities, and after careful consideration, chose Oxford Brookes University. The course structure aligned perfectly with my career aspirations, and I felt that the university offered the best environment for my professional growth. Entri Fly was instrumental throughout the process—they assisted me with my applications and visa procedures. Their support made the entire journey smooth and stress-free.

Q5: How did you present the gap years in your application?

A: Yes, universities do inquire about gap years, and it’s important to present them in a way that highlights how those years contributed to your growth. I had work experience between my prior studies and the year I applied for my master’s. Instead of viewing the gap as a disadvantage, try to frame it as a period of skill enhancement and professional development. From my experience, universities don’t expect international students to settle permanently in the country. Instead, they want to see clarity in our career path and how our previous experiences align with our chosen field of study. I emphasized how my experience in media and communication would support my transition into digital marketing. Being transparent and strategic in my SOP – which again, I created with the professional help of the team at Entri Fly – helped me present my journey in a positive light.

Q6: What made you choose the UK over other countries?

A: I initially considered both Canada and the UK. However, I realized that Canada mainly offers PG diplomas, whereas the UK provides full-fledged postgraduate degrees. That was a significant factor in my decision. Additionally, I preferred the UK’s weather over Canada’s harsh winters. Having taught in India, I noticed that Indian education relies heavily on rote learning and structured examinations. In contrast, UK universities follow a research-oriented approach with fewer exams and more assignments, which appealed to me. Initially, it took me some time to adjust to self-directed learning, but I soon realized how beneficial it is. The UK system encourages students to develop analytical and problem-solving skills, which are crucial in real-world scenarios. Universities also provide extensive resources and online platforms to aid research, making it easier for students to adapt to the academic framework.

Q7: How was the visa application process?

A: The visa process was straightforward, thanks to Entri Fly. They handled everything, from documentation to submission. My only responsibility was attending my biometric appointment and presenting the required documents. I believe most visa-related issues arise from inconsistencies in documents, so I would advise students to be organized from the start. A well-prepared application makes the process seamless.

Q8: How did you handle finances and education loans?

A: Education loans are common among international students. The main expenses are tuition fees and initial living costs before part-time jobs start providing an income. One of the best ways to reduce financial stress is to apply early for scholarships—many universities offer them, but students often miss out due to late applications. In my first year, I couldn’t save much, but after completing my studies and securing a stable income, I was able to manage my finances better. It’s all about balancing expenses and prioritizing necessities over leisure.

Q9: How did you manage accommodation?

A: Entri Fly connected me with accommodation service providers, making the process much easier. Initially, I found a place through them, but later, I moved in with friends and rented a house. There are multiple online platforms, just like in India, where students can explore different housing options and directly connect with landlords or agencies. Overall, finding accommodation wasn’t as challenging as I had expected.

Q10: What was your experience finding part-time jobs?

A: Part-time jobs are essential for students, both for financial support and gaining work experience. In the UK, students can work up to 20 hours per week, which ensures that we don’t get overworked while managing studies. I explored different sectors, including food services, retail, and care homes. These jobs are flexible, and employers ask for our availability beforehand. One important aspect I noticed is that the UK is very welcoming to international students. If any issues arise at the workplace, we have the right to raise complaints and voice our concerns. The key to securing a part-time job is patience and commitment—you have to be proactive in searching and willing to take on different roles.

Q11: Any final advice for students planning to study in the UK?

A: Absolutely! Here are a few key takeaways from my journey.? Manage your finances wisely – Start saving and budgeting early. Get a driving license – Many jobs require one, even if you don’t own a car. Update your CV and LinkedIn – This will help you find relevant job opportunities. Try to secure a job in your field – It’s not always possible, but getting relevant experience helps in the long run. Make the most of your student years – Once you start working full-time, managing extra tasks becomes difficult. Looking back, every challenge and risk was truly worth it. This journey changed my perspective, opened new doors, and shaped me into a stronger, more confident version of myself.