Name of Student: Sonali
Pathway Programme: Pathways to Marketing (2024 cohort)
Internship Role: Marketing Analyst & Assessor
Internship Employer: Martec International Ltd.
Summary of Organisation: Martec International is a team of global experts in advanced retail training and consumer goods courses. We bring more than 35 yearsā experience and a trusted service to professionals worldwide.
Please briefly outline the project/tasks/responsibilities you worked on during your Professional Pathways internship:
“1. I reviewed and evaluated Martec’s marketing activities to assess their effectiveness in supporting brand image development.
2. I conducted thorough initial reviews of the company’s website, mailing campaigns, and LinkedIn presence to identify areas of improvement.
3. I performed detailed investigations into customer perceptions and engagement, providing a comprehensive analysis of the current marketing strategies.
4. Based on my findings, I presented a detailed report with actionable recommendations to enhance Martec’s marketing strategies and overall brand presence.”
How do you think this experience will impact on your employability as you enter the job market as a recent graduate?
“This experience has significantly enhanced my employability as I enter the job market as a recent graduate. Through my internship at Martec International, I have gained practical, hands-on experience in marketing analytics and strategic planning. I have developed a keen eye for evaluating marketing activities and identifying areas for improvement, skills that are highly valued in today’s competitive job market. Working under the guidance of an industry veteran like Brian Hume has also boosted my confidence and provided me with invaluable insights into the marketing industry. Additionally, the opportunity to present detailed recommendations and see their impact on a real business has honed my analytical and communication skills. Overall, this internship has equipped me with the expertise, confidence, and practical experience needed to excel in a marketing career.”
What achievement(s) were you particularly proud of during your Pathways internship?
“During my Pathways internship at Martec International, I am particularly proud of several achievements. One of the most significant was the comprehensive report I produced, which evaluated Martec’s marketing activities and provided detailed recommendations for improvement. This report received high praise from Brian Hume and the rest of the team for its thorough analysis and actionable insights.
I am also proud to share that based on the strength of my report, Martec has invited me to continue working with them part-time for the next couple of months. This opportunity will allow me to help implement the recommendations I suggested and see firsthand the impact of my work on the company’s marketing strategies. This recognition and extended opportunity not only validate the quality of my work but also provide me with invaluable experience in executing strategic marketing plans.“
Given the Professional Pathways internship is 35 hours in total, what advice would you give to other students to ensure they gain as much as possible from the experience?
“Given that the Professional Pathways internship is just 35 hours in total, my advice to other students is to be proactive and fully immerse themselves in the experience from the very beginning. Here are some key tips to ensure you gain as much as possible:
Prepare in Advance: Before starting the internship, research the company and its industry. Understand their key products, services, and recent news. This will help you hit the ground running and make meaningful contributions right away.
Set Clear Goals: Identify what you want to achieve during your internship. Setting specific, achievable goals will help you stay focused and make the most of your limited time.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification. This shows your interest and eagerness to learn, and it can provide you with valuable insights that might not be immediately apparent.
Be Open to Feedback: Embrace constructive criticism as a learning tool. Use feedback to improve your skills and understanding of the tasks at hand.
Take Initiative: Look for areas where you can add value and propose ideas or solutions. Showing initiative can make a significant impression and enhance your learning experience.
Reflect and Document: Regularly reflect on what youāve learned and document your experiences. This can help you consolidate your knowledge and provide a useful reference for future opportunities.”
What advice would you give to a student who has to complete an internship via remote or hybrid working?
“To make the most of your experience, it’s essential to establish a routine that mirrors a typical workday, helping you stay disciplined and productive. Creating a dedicated, comfortable, and distraction-free workspace will aid in maintaining focus and organization.
Staying connected with your supervisor and team members is crucial. Regular communication through video calls and emails will ensure you remain aligned with the teamās goals and stay engaged. Being proactive is also vital; donāt hesitate to reach out if you need help or clarification.“