Marina Torres

What motivated you to pursue studies at university?

I believe the main reason I decided to start my master’s program is because I wanted to give a boost in my career. I felt a bit stuck on my opportunities back home and once I heard about the MA in Journalism, Media and Globalisation, it seemed like the perfect opportunity for me to test new waters, network and gain experience outside of my bubble.

What subjects did you study before applying for study at university?

I graduated in Journalism in Brazil, with an exchange semester in University of California, Berkeley, studying Media Studies and Sociology. I was also pursuing an MBA in Production of Digital Contents before I came here.

Were there any challenges affecting your decision to study at university? If so, how did you overcome them?

The decision to move so far from home, away from my family and friends, was the hardest part for me. I had lived abroad before, but the idea of living away for two years - and in two different countries - was something I never thought of! Luckily, we live in a very technological time and being connected online with the people I love helped me overcome the fear of being far.

Why did you choose City St George's?

It was a no brainer. I had been working in communications, as a journalist, content strategist and copywriter - all of these roles had this business and innovation beat. When I saw that the MA program in City St George's offered options to dive into business and innovation, I knew it was for me. The possibility to pick electives caught my eye too, I was very excited to learn more about Data Journalism.

The decision to study in the heart of London was also very important to me. I believe that living here opens many doors.

How are you finding studying in the UK?

It is great to connect with people from so many different backgrounds and with different experiences. As a journalist, it is also so important to be around people from different cultures, it really helps in growing networks and getting involved in projects outside of the classroom. London is a great place to start new things!

What does a typical week at university look like for you?

I usually go to the University two to three times a week for my classes and to work on school assignments. I decided to take two electives and a dissertation in each semester, so I have classes usually once or twice a week. This semester (which is my final one), I’m taking Data Visualisation and International Politics modules and work on my dissertation and/or have meetings with my supervisor.

I also go to campus whenever I have some work to do as a student ambassador. However, I also enjoy going to the university even when I don't have that much work planned to do. I like popping up there for a coffee, to eat at the cafeteria (they have really good meal deals, it has been a great way for me to save money when I don't feel like cooking) or meet friends. The campus has a lot to offer.

What knowledge and skills has your course helped you develop?

As a non-native English speaker, writing news in English was something I had very little experience in before moving abroad. The opportunity to sharpen my skills in writing was very important for me, as I plan to work, writing in English for the next years. The feedback from professors in each assignment was fundamental for me to understand how I could improve my writing techniques and what I should pay attention to regarding grammar and vocabulary. And of course, learning how to use Excel and R, for instance in my Data Journalism course. The electives I chose gave me a very good practical background in journalism, that combines well with the theoretical approach I gained during my first year in Denmark, I feel like I developed more skills that I thought was possible, and that was the best part of it.

What are your career plans and how has City St George's prepared you for them?

I want to keep exploring new horizons in journalism and communications. After graduating, I plan to apply for a graduate scheme to get more experience working in London. After that, I will see where my career takes me. I believe the UK offers great opportunities for people who are interested in journalism and business, and I want to learn from it as much as I can. Gladly, City St George's has prepared me well to put myself out there.