By Thomas Franche-Nolan, MMKG candidate, Schulich GradBlog Contributor
The students of the Master of Marketing (MMKG) program, the first program of its kind in Canada, are starting their second semester into the program. This semester students have already taken the initiative to participate in case competitions, networking events, and career workshops.
In celebration of our inaugural class, this is an excellent opportunity to introduce a couple of students from the 2018/2019 MMKG class. Meet more of the MMKG students here!
Meet Naomi & Gurteshwar:
(Left) Naomi Huisman, MMKG 2019 candidate and (Right) Gurteshwar Ahluwalia, MMKG 2019 candidate
Where are you originally from?
Naomi: I am originally from Burlington Ontario, an hour west of York University.
Gurteshwar: I am originally from Punjab, India. I completed my high school education in India and then moved to Canada as an international student to complete my bachelor’s honours degree.
What’s your academic background?
Naomi: I studied at the University of Western Ontario and graduated with a degree in Business Management and Organizational Studies with Honours Specialization in Nutrition and Dietetics (Business and Food Science).
Gurteshwar: I completed my Bachelor of Commerce from York University’s School of Administrative Studies. My specialization was in Marketing.
What has been the most rewarding thing about the MMKG program so far?
Naomi: The faculty in the Master of Marketing program have diverse backgrounds in the marketing industry and often bring guest speakers to class. This past semester I had the opportunity to speak with the creator of Mastermind Toys, the Vice President of Indigo Kids and the National Marketing Manager for Fossil Canada.
Gurteshwar: The most rewarding part of this program has been the exposure to such fascinating faculty and peers. My way of thinking has really expanded through discussing and hearing how others tackle a topic or problem. Throughout this program you are constantly blown away by the in-depth knowledge professors have in their area of research.
“This past semester I had the opportunity to speak with the creator of Mastermind Toys, the Vice President of Indigo Kids and the National Marketing Manager for Fossil Canada.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies or passions?
Naomi: Consumer packaged goods and the food industry are my biggest career interests. More specifically consumer food trends and how companies evolve to incorporate these.
Gurteshwar: I love solo traveling – it is exhilarating exploring places alone, as it combines elements of fear and adventure. Additionally, I have an odd hobby of watching ballets, not very common for someone my age and ethnicity. I consider myself passionate about Indian politics, books written by Khushwant Singh, and Japanese restaurants.
“The most rewarding part of this program has been the exposure to such fascinating faculty and peers. My way of thinking has really expanded through discussing and hearing how others tackle a topic or problem.”
What’s one experience typical of any week in the MMKG?
Naomi: One typical week could include learning about the correct methods of creating a marketing survey to ensure your data is accurate. After completing this course, it is astounding to see how many businesses are incorrectly collecting primary data, leading to inaccurate results and insights. I will never look at a survey the same way again.
Gurteshwar: A typical week includes: case competitions, career workshops, networking events, award-winning speakers, presentations, many espresso shots, and assignment submissions.
What are you hoping to achieve after your program is complete?
Naomi: I hope to work as a brand manager in the food industry once I have completed my education.
Gurteshwar: I want to pursue a career that will challenge me the way that Schulich has. I am eager to apply the skills I have learned in the marketing and advertising industry. My ideal company would have a strong global presence in Canada and India, bridging the gap between my two worlds.
Best of luck Naomi and Gurteshwar!
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