Thanks to a partnership agreement between UQ and Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Colombia, Christina Arango and Juan Camilo Gonzalez were able to travel to Australia to complete a Master of Business degree. This is their story.
Why did you choose to study a Master of Business at UQ?
Christina:
My journey into the world of business and marketing has been nothing short of an exciting adventure. It all began at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in my home country, where I initially started on an economics path. However, I soon found myself yearning for something more tangible, something that would allow me to navigate the dynamic world of business with a keen eye on the market.
With determination in my heart, I made the bold decision to switch gears and transition into the realm of business. My passion for marketing led me to pursue a postgraduate program in this field. That's when a remarkable opportunity presented itself. I learned about the partnership between my university and UQ that would enable me to pursue a Master of Business in just one year.
The chance to expand my knowledge and expertise was too enticing to pass up. What's more, UQ offered an advertising major, which perfectly complemented my creative skills and aligned with my career aspirations. So I took the plunge and embarked on this incredible educational journey bridging continents and cultures to fuel my passion for business, marketing and advertising.
Choose from 9 different fields of study in the Master of Business degree, including the advertising major. View the full list.
Juan: Following the completion of my postgraduate studies at the University Javeriana in Colombia, I entered the advertising industry. Later, I assumed greater responsibilities as a production area coordinator in an entirely different industry. It quickly became evident that my role required a deeper knowledge base. So I capitalised on the partnership between Javeriana and UQ and commenced my academic journey at UQ.
I had high expectations that this master's program would equip me to meet the demands of my job and enhance my future career prospects. Not only did it fulfil these expectations, it nurtured critical thinking in areas I had previously overlooked, such as greenwashing.
How would you describe the support you’ve received at UQ?
Christina: From the first day, UQ has embraced me with a warm and inclusive atmosphere, and I owe this wonderful experience to the staff in the International Services team. Throughout my journey, they have been an unwavering source of support and information.
Juan: The first thing I did after arriving in Australia was visit my faculty. This connection has proven to be an incredible source of guidance for me throughout this journey. They provided me with invaluable materials and tips, making my transition into university life much smoother and more enjoyable.
How has UQ helped prepare you for your future career or goals?
Christina: Enrolling in UQ's Master of Business not only provided me with a multicultural perspective of the business world. It equipped me with the essential tools to carve out a path toward a successful career. It has been instrumental in enhancing my skills, abilities and attitudes, empowering me for future endeavours.
What truly sets UQ apart is the practical focus on applying classroom concepts to the Australian business landscape.
"This approach has broadened my perspectives and equipped me with valuable insights for tackling real challenges. It offered an enriching educational experience from a different point of view."
I'm grateful for the experiences and knowledge I've gained on this thrilling ride.
Juan: UQ's standout faculty, with their rich real-world experience, made classes engaging and practical. The University infrastructure, including spacious classrooms conducive to collaborative learning, enhanced the educational experience.
"The warmth and accessibility of professors and administration staff at UQ felt like a supportive, welcoming family."
Several classes equipped me with amazing tools and knowledge to face the challenges I'll encounter upon returning home. But the most profound insight I've gained is the paramount importance of sustainability in contemporary business models. This isn't a common topic in Colombia so having this knowledge will undoubtedly enhance my professional value.
My UQ master's degree has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to excel as a leader in the modern world, and I couldn't be prouder to call myself a UQ graduate.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learnt or done at UQ?
Christina: One of the most profound lessons I've learned here is the significance of embracing diverse perspectives. Understanding individuals from different backgrounds and with varying viewpoints isn't always easy. But UQ has taught me the value of open-mindedness and collaboration.
What I found particularly enjoyable during my time at UQ was the opportunity to connect with other students at different events. Joining societies and engaging in discussions on topics of shared interest has expanded my horizons and been a source of great enjoyment.
"UQ has not only provided me with an outstanding education but has also enriched my life through these experiences."
Juan: During my time at UQ, I've had the privilege of learning two remarkable things. Firstly, I had the opportunity to attend the Holi Festival, a celebration of Indian culture. Immersing myself in this cultural experience deepened my appreciation for the diversity of different cultures and their values.
Secondly, I had the privilege of learning about addressing wicked problems firsthand from a CEO of a prominent company. This was a truly invaluable opportunity to gain insights from one of Australia's top CEOs.
Do you feel a sense of belonging in the UQ community?
Christina: Being a part of the UQ community has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. Throughout my studies, I've had the privilege of building some remarkable friendships that I'm immensely grateful for. These friends are not just kind and responsible individuals, but they also share the same interests and passions as I do. We've forged a friendship that I genuinely hope will last a lifetime.
Being a part of the UQ community has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. Throughout my studies, I've had the privilege of building some remarkable friendships that I'm immensely grateful for.
Juan: The multicultural atmosphere at UQ has made me feel like an integral part of an amazing community. The rich tapestry of social activities and interactions with people from diverse backgrounds enriched my university experience.
Why would you recommend UQ to other students?
Juan: I highly recommend UQ for 3 compelling reasons:
- Its prestigious rank among the top 50 universities worldwide adds significant value to your degree.
- Classmates hail from various corners of the globe, offering a unique opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives and cultures.
- The professors and the campus itself are truly exceptional. The professors bring a wealth of knowledge and the campus is nothing short of enchanting, making you feel like you're in a fairytale setting.
Christina: I wholeheartedly recommend UQ to prospective students, and not only because of the prestigious credentials you'll earn. UQ is, without a doubt, the ideal environment for personal and professional growth. You'll have an unforgettable journey with an abundance of positive experiences that will expand your horizons and lead you to embrace more diverse perspectives.
In today's world, empathy is a crucial skill. The University fosters an environment where empathy thrives, ensuring you leave with knowledge as well as a compassionate, open-minded perspective. UQ is the place where your personal and professional journey flourishes, and I can't recommend it enough.
Interested in studying at UQ as an international student? See if your university is one of our exchange partners. Passionate about pursuing a professional career in business? Learn more about our Master of Business degree.
