Tell us about your career journey since you graduated?
After receiving my BA, I had the opportunity to practice my knowledge in various practical capacities and work environments. First, I worked as a Customer Service Specialist at At-Jazirah Vehicle Agencies Company Ltd, a competitive car company which sells Ford and Lincoln vehicles in Saudi Arabia. Afterward, I served as a Teller at Bank Al-Bilad in Saudi Arabia. Then, I moved from industry to academia as I got the opportunity to work as a Teaching Assistant at Institute of Public Administration (IPA) in Saudi Arabia. I was very lucky that I have received two scholarships from IPA to do my masters in the USA and then my PhD in the UK. After completing the PhD, I will return back to the IPA where I will teach, do research, studies and consultations. Alongside, I also volunteered at some well-known Saudi charities such as the Saudi Alzheimer Disease association, Al Nahda Women's Association, Zahra Breast Cancer Association and Saudi Professional Women’s Network. I gained valuable experience from my work as a volunteer because it allowed me to learn that charities are indeed making use of marketing to foster their social objectives.
How would you say Brunel helped you to get where you are today?
I believe the programme is aligned with my current career in the research and teaching of marketing. Brunel helped me to pursue this degree as it will prepare me for my long-term career passions.
Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?
In addition to reading online reviews, I have chosen Brunel because of the great feedback I received from previous alumni. Also, I prefer this Brunel Business School over others because it gives me the opportunity to study with students from different economic backgrounds and professional experiences.
What is your best memory of studying here?
When Dr. Dorothy Yen announced my name as winner of “Best Paper” at the Brunel Business School Doctoral Symposium 2018. Another unforgettable moment is when I have been selected as the recipient of the “Best Poster Award” at the BAM2019 Doctoral Symposium.
If you could give one piece of advice to new students, what would that be?
Don’t be shy to ask questions. There will be many things for you to figure out on your own during the first year. Therefore, rather than wasting your time trying to find an answer, just ask someone else who knows the answer.
Also, choose the field you are passionate about. You will be working on your research for about 3-4 years so make sure that you do your research on something that you are really interested in.
Make sure you participate at academic conferences. Conferences will allow you to get a feedback from academics in the field. It will also allow you to network and learn new ideas from others.
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