FROM STICHTING SEAMS TO WEAVING CONTENT
MY JOURNEY WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF SALFORD BUSINESS SCHOOL
By Ukaraobong Habila
HOW IT ALL STARTED...
Embarking on a journey from Nigeria to the United Kingdom was a significant turning point in my life.
With a background in fashion and a BSc in Political Science, I found myself at a crossroads. The desire to delve into the realm of digital marketing and become a content creator grew stronger each day. Recognizing the gap in my skill set, I made the life-altering decision to enroll in the MSc in Digital Marketing program at the University of Salford Business School.
As a fashion designer with a deep understanding of the importance of captivating content, I never could have predicted the transformative experience that awaited me at the University of Salford Business School. Little did I know that this venture would pave the way for a career shift into the dynamic world of digital marketing and content creation.
FROM THREADS TO KEYWORDS
Now that I think of it, threads and keywords are somewhat similar. Okay, hear me out;
Both are crucial elements in their respective fields, playing integral roles in achieving desired outcomes. Just as sewing threads provide the foundational structure for fabrics, keywords serve as the foundational structure for content.
Threads are meticulously sewn in precise patterns to ensure uniformity and strength. Keywords, likewise, are strategically placed within content to optimize search engine visibility and user engagement. Both require careful consideration of placement for optimal results.
Maybe my career path should be inspirational speaking. Hmmm... That's a story for another day.
Prior to my move to the UK, I had spent a fulfilling eight years as a fashion designer, While my fashion design background gave me a solid foundation in the importance of creating captivating content, my knowledge of the digital landscape was limited. I yearned to gain industry training, the kind that would enable me to harness the power of digital marketing to create compelling narratives that resonate with my goal of being a Digital Marketing strategist focused on content creation and content marketing.
LIFE AS A DIGITAL MARKETING STUDENT
Stepping into my MSc in Digital Marketing at the University of Salford, I found myself in a melting pot of experiences and cultures, all bound by a shared curiosity for the digital landscape. My background in political science seemed distant from this new venture, but I was determined to bridge the gap between my previous academic pursuits and my passion for content creation.
The journey began on June 5th, 2023. The University of Salford Business School's curriculum wasn't just about theories; it was about hands-on experience and practical learning. With no prior academic knowledge of digital marketing or content creation, I dove headfirst into my studies.
The first two modules - Digital Marketing Communication and Search and Social Media Marketing proved to be the turning point in my understanding of the digital world. Concepts that were once alien became my closest allies. SEO, keyword optimization, content creation strategy, storytelling, and buyer personas. The plot thickened as I delved into social media strategies. I understood that each post was more than just an image or text, it was an invitation to engage, an opportunity to spark conversations and foster connections.
These modules were not just lessons. they were stepping stones guiding me from a place of uncertainty to a realm of expertise in a digital landscape as a content creator strategist.
The lessons were like gems I collected on my journey. With each discussion on crafting compelling narratives, I saw parallels between the fashion sketches I'd once designed and the content strategies I was now shaping. The threads of storytelling transcended industries, weaving a tapestry that tied together diverse fields.
One of the most valuable things I have learned is the importance of research. In order to create effective content as a digital marketer, it is essential to understand your target audience and what they are interested in. I have learned how to conduct market research, identify my target audience, and create content that is relevant, engaging, and creative.
Content that is simply informative is not enough. It needs to be creative and engaging in order to capture and hold the attention of the reader. I use storytelling, humor, and other techniques to make my content more interesting and engaging.
LOOKING AHEAD
As I progress through the program, I am filled with excitement for the future. The University of Salford Business School has ignited a passion within me to carve a niche as a content creator in the digital marketing realm. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth, and I eagerly anticipate the knowledge that the upcoming modules will bring. With the guidance of the program and the support of a vibrant academic community, I am confident that I will emerge as a professional in digital marketing, equipped to excel as a content creator.
In this tale of transformation, I've found that embracing the unknown and taking that leap of faith can lead to unexpected discoveries. From the streets of Nigeria to the halls of education in the UK, I've learned that the journey is as enriching as the destination.
As I eagerly await the next chapters of my journey, I'm reminded that learning never ends, and life is a canvas waiting for the strokes of our dreams and aspirations.
And so, the story unfolds a story of reinvention, learning, and embracing change. The University of Salford Business School provided the backdrop for this tale, nurturing a passion for digital marketing and content creation. As our protagonist takes on new challenges, one thing is clear:
The journey has just begun...