A group of final-year Marketing Management BA Honours students at the University of Westminster participated in a five-day visit to Madrid, which included a visit to the University’s partner school, Istituto Europeo di Design (IED), to deepen their cultural sensitivity, boost their confidence in global mobility, expand their creative perspectives and strengthen their engagement with international design practice.
The trip took place between 10-14 April and the group were accompanied by Course Leader and Senior Lecturer in Marketing Ali Baig and Assistant Head of the School of Management, Marketing and Experience Industries Dr Donna Mai.
Upon arrival, students were introduced to the historical and contemporary character of the city, with a guided walk through Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. Further visits during the trip included Retiro Park, El Rastro market, the Lavapiés district and Matadero Madrid, allowing students to encounter diverse and contemporary cultural experiences.
Students also deepened their historical knowledge of the city with visits to the Museo de Historia de Madrid and the Museo Naval, whilst some members of the group experienced the world-famous artwork of Picasso, Kandinsky, Goya and Miro at the globally renowned Prado and Reina Sofía museums.
A key component of the trip was the visit to IED at Gran Vía, where students were introduced to the contemporary design ethos of a leading European design institution. This engagement provided valuable insight into international study opportunities and professional paths within the creative industries.
Ali Baig said: “Overseas trips allow students to graduate from the University with soaring confidence and a bold sense of global possibility. The visit to Madrid and our university partner IED not only enhanced their sense of belonging and course identity but also strengthened their independence and ignited their cultural curiosity. It was a fantastic trip and I am sure one of the highlights of their overall university experience.”
The trip directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education, 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Marketing courses at the University of Westminster.
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