Melvin Bostelaar
2018 International Business Management MSc graduate Melvin is Senior Partnership Success Manager at Studyportals in Geldrop, Netherlands.
Interview
Since graduating, what have you gone on to do?
Between June and September 2022, I worked at MSI Global as part of their marketing team. Unfortunately this job was not quite what I had thought it would be and I decided to quit. My current role at IU enables me to help students globally to experience international education, something which I have enjoyed greatly.
Is the above what you planned to do before starting university?
Not quite. I initially wanted to work in market research but instead, I find myself doing something much more meaningful, in my opinion.
What was your favourite thing about your course?
The level at which critical thinking had to be applied in assignments, the practicality of them, as well as the depth of the course material.
Were you involved in any extra-curriculum activities during your time here?
I did free Japanese classes for one semester at the Language Resource Centre.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
I would like to continue developing myself to become an expert in my field. Rather than a manager, I would like to hold an advisory role.
How do you see future technologies and new ways of working (Future of Work) affecting your sector?
Future technologies will continue to shape the Higher Education landscape. From student recruitment to new methods of teaching and even entirely new degrees being offered. I believe Higher Education will be at the forefront of these changes, as it is essential to educate the leaders and professionals of the future on how to make the best use of the new technologies.
What one piece of advice would you give to somebody looking to start a career in your industry?
The best part of working in the Higher Education industry is knowing that you are contributing to something truly meaningful.
Don’t feel like you’re not qualified for a role. The diploma you’ve received from Newcastle University Business School is proof of your qualification and the knowledge you possess, as well as the critical and creative thinking you are capable of.