Back in 2019/20 I had to make a huge decision… which university do I attend to gain a degree in Marketing?
I’ll cut all the crap and just tell you it came down to two universities: De Montfort in Leicester, or Derby…
I chose Derby. Here’s why…
Sense of Community
The first thing that struck me about Kedleston’s campus in Derby was the sense of community which was infectious and desirable when I was exploring what life there would be like.
It felt like a high-budget sixth form which makes it relatable to young people who have just finished their A-levels. This personally was what I was after compared to how some universities do push the enterprise element in your face (even if that’s not intended).
The friendliness and attentiveness of Derby’s staff and students is welcoming for all people no matter their background and future aspirations.
All coursework (no exams)
Following 2 years in the Marketing industry already I had no real interest in taking exams because I passionately don’t see the value in them and how they can prove someone’s worth (especially in such a creative degree).
I was going to turn 21 a few months after starting university so exams were something I really wanted to leave behind in my teens.
I never really got exam anxiety (which I never took for granted), but I’ve always excelled more in coursework modules at school and college, so this was a huge pull for me at Derby compared to other universities.
Networking opportunities
The University of Derby does a fantastic job at pushing you in front of businesses of all sizes and incorporating them into the modules as live briefs.
What does this mean?
You get the opportunity to showcase your reports or video presentations to business owners, executives and heads of departments which helps put you on the map for more networking opportunities.
This is something I’ve taken into my job here at Eighteen. In fact, I wouldn’t be at Eighteen if it wasn’t for Derby University!
Quality of tutoring
Now this was something I wouldn’t know until I was enrolled into the university, but I can honestly say the value of teaching on the marketing course was bespoke.
I was a typical C-grade student at GCSE, and I got rubbish A-Levels (future blog will let you know about that) but at Derby I was able to receive a First-Class Honours in Digital Marketing.
And at the time of writing this blog I know that I have received distinctions in all my postgraduate modules (just waiting for my dissertation result!).
The university has brought the best out of me and I’m in such a stronger position career-wise now compared to 2020.
I was never surprised when the university was awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023!
