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Salah Alhashimi

Government Communication Director

MA Marketing Communication - Dubai Campus, 2017

What made you choose Middlesex University?:

I chose Middlesex University mainly because it offered an unique, multicultural, educational environment as well as a strong group of experienced and knowledgeable tutors. Another reason would be that I always had a personal connection with the British education system. I was glad to find an English university in Dubai that was offering the right course for my future education development objectives.

What course did you study and what attracted you to that course?:

I completed a Master's in Marketing Communication. I have always loved this subject and I enjoyed working in this field since I started my career. The mix between the theoretical and practical aspects of the curriculum was one of the reasons that convinced me to join the course.

What aspects of your course did you enjoy the most?:

The productive debates with my tutors during the course, the impact that being a professional with over 15 years experience in this field had over my time as a student, and also the opportunity to develop creative marketing campaigns.

What is your fondest memory of Middlesex?:

Making new friends and going back to the student life after a long time being away. Working on campaigns and doing research played a big role in gaining new knowledge and experience.

What one piece of advice would you give to a prospective student interested in studying at Middlesex?:

Hold on the opportunity to learn from teachers with high professional experience and always think of how to apply what you learn into your personal career plans.

How did your course and time at Middlesex help you to get where you are professionally today?:

The fact that Middlesex offered me the option to attend part-time evening classes was ideal for me as I had very limited time available for studying due to my job and family. The campus location was also ideal; 10 minutes drive from my house.

How did you get your foot on the career ladder post university?:

I was already working full time when I started my master's, but obtaining this certification gave me the support needed in developing my career even further.

What has been your defining career break of highlight to date?:

Being promoted from the title of 'Assistant Manager' to 'Director of Communication' within three years was one of the biggest achievements in my career. This was due to my openness to new challenges and taking one step at a time. Also, I am very proud about developing a TV commercial, which in 2010 was selected as one of the top 10 TVCs in the region by Campaign magazine and won the Film Crystal MENA award in 2011.

What are the top three career tips you would give to current students and recent graduates?:

1. Always think how to apply what you learn into the real professional life.
2. Nothing is impossible. Dream big and the opportunities will come.
3. Enjoy what you do and once you feel the fun has disappeared from your work, it is time for a change.

What skills have been most valuable in your career so far and how have you developed these?:

Creative thinking helped me the most whenever I wanted to develop any project. I developed it with practice and always challenging myself and my team to think outside the box.  Leadership and taking initiative is always something I have liked to do and it has pushed me up the ladder. Not waiting for things to happen, but making the change myself.

Are there any tips you can give international students looking to move abroad to study?:

Infuse into the new culture because the joyful memories will stay with you forever. Being abroad is the perfect opportunity to be independent and to learn about life beyond the boundaries of studentship.

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