Diya Khurana

Why did you choose to study MSc Strategic Marketing and Consulting at Birmingham?

I chose the MSc Strategic Marketing and Consulting because I wanted to develop a stronger understanding of both strategic marketing and consultancy, while gaining practical experience alongside the academic side of the programme. My experience at Birmingham so far has been a great balance of academic learning, practical projects and opportunities to work with organisations on real challenges.

I’m a marketing professional passionate about the intersection of brand, culture, and storytelling. With hands-on experience in PR, brand management, and creative marketing communications, I thrive on building campaigns that don’t just speak to audiences but truly connect with them.

My work spans content creation, event planning, influencer engagement, and integrated marketing strategies, with a consistent focus on translating brand essence into meaningful impact.

What is student life like for you?

Student life for me has been a mix of academic work, practical experiences and creative pursuits. Alongside my MSc, I’ve really enjoyed getting involved in opportunities that allow me to apply what I learn beyond the classroom, particularly through the Company Project and other consultancy and industry-led opportunities at Birmingham.

Outside of my studies, I’m also a DJ and a member of the University’s DJ Society. DJing has become a great creative outlet alongside my degree, and I enjoy the contrast between the strategic and analytical side of my studies and the more spontaneous, social nature of performing. I’ve also enjoyed meeting people from different backgrounds through university and finding a balance between studying, work and having a life outside of my degree.

What has your experience with your Company Project been like?

I’ve particularly enjoyed the opportunity to work directly with a client and apply what we’ve learned throughout the programme to a real business challenge. It has been a great experience working as part of a consultancy team, conducting research and developing strategic recommendations that can have a practical impact for the company. I’ve also really valued the opportunity to gain experience in a client-facing environment and understand how marketing decisions are approached in a real-world setting.