Katrine Hansen

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I've always wanted to study in the heart of London. Not just for the iconic cityscape, but for the energy, diversity, and opportunities that come with it. When researching universities, Westminster stood out immediately. It had a strong reputation for supporting international students, and I got the sense that inclusivity wasn’t just a buzzword here; it was part of the culture. That impression was spot on. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and part of a genuinely global community. It’s more than just a university; it’s a place where people from all over the world come together and grow.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

I’m studying an MSc in Marketing Communications, and it’s been such a rewarding experience so far. What I’ve especially enjoyed is how practical and dynamic the course feels. The lecturers bring real-world experience into the classroom as they’ve worked in the industry; they know what works and what doesn’t, and they challenge us to think strategically.

The seminars are incredibly interactive, which makes learning feel more like collaboration than just listening. One moment you’re deep into research and insights, and the next you’re being asked to transform that data into a creative marketing campaign. It really mirrors how things work in the industry, where both analytical thinking and creativity go hand-in-hand. You’re constantly being pushed to do your best work, and in that process, you grow a lot more than you expect.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

I genuinely couldn’t be happier with the level of support from my lecturers. They’re not just there to teach, they’re there to guide, support, and mentor you through every stage of your journey. Whether you need help with academic work, want advice on your next career move, or just need someone to talk things through with, they’re always available and willing to help.

One thing I really appreciate is that they truly know what they’re talking about, so asking questions (lots of them) always leads to valuable insights. The support feels very personal and authentic, and it makes a huge difference in how confident you feel as a student.

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

Absolutely! One of the best things about the course is the access to professional tools and resources that are actually used in the industry. We get free access to the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite, which is amazing for developing creative assets and presentations. For data analysis on the MSc, we also use SPSS, which is really useful for learning how to interpret and work with real data.

Another good thing is the access to premium market intelligence tools like Mintel, Kantar, and Statista. These platforms are used by major brands and agencies and having access as a student means we get to work with up-to-date consumer insights, industry reports, and market data, i.e., the kind of resources that shape real-world marketing strategies. It makes the coursework feel much more applied and relevant, and it gives you a real edge when preparing for a career in the field.

Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service?

Yes, I’ve made the most of the Careers and Employability Service, and I’m really glad I did! I completed both the Gold and Platinum levels of their employability programme, which gave me the chance to actively invest in my future career.

Through this, I improved how I present myself; from refining my CV and cover letters to learning how to articulate my strengths in an interview. There were also loads of workshops and events where I got to meet professionals, expand my network, and step outside of my comfort zone.

All of that effort paid off when I was honoured to win two awards: the Overall Platinum Winner and a financial prize (which, let’s be honest, is always welcome when you’re a student trying to live your best life in London!). I also got the incredible opportunity to shadow a CEO for a day. That networking opportunity is invaluable.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course 

Outside of my course, I’ve tried to take advantage of as many opportunities as possible. I took an Excel course, which has been incredibly useful, especially when applying for roles where data and reporting skills are valued.

I’ve also attended multiple career-focused events that helped me better understand the job market and connect with professionals in the field. One of the highlights was a pitching competition that one of our lecturers organised. We got to develop a content idea for an influencer, pitch it, and to my excitement, my team won! It was such a fun and hands-on way to apply what we’d learned.

The University is great at organising opportunities like these. You just have to show up and take advantage. There’s so much happening beyond the classroom if you’re willing to get involved.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

My biggest advice is do your research. Take a good look at the course you’re interested in and not just the title, but the actual modules. Ask yourself if they excite you, challenge you, and align with where you want to go. Every course has its own structure and focus, so it’s important to make sure it fits you.

If you can, attend an open day. Seeing the campus for yourself and getting a feel for the environment makes a huge difference. Westminster has a really welcoming vibe, but it’s always better to experience it in person.

And most importantly, don’t be shy about asking questions. Reach out to lecturers, speak to current or former students, and get honest insights. People are usually more than happy to share their experience, and it can really help you make a confident, informed decision. Choosing a university is a big step, so give yourself the time and information you need to choose the right one for you.

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

For me, it’s the combination of support, inclusivity, and opportunity. The University really wants you to succeed, and you feel that. It’s such an inclusive environment, where everyone is encouraged to be themselves and share their perspectives. There are endless possibilities to grow, both personally and professionally. But above all, it’s the people. I’ve made friends from all over the world here, and those friendships are honestly one of the most valuable parts of my entire experience.

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

I think what surprised me most was just how quickly I felt it was the right place to be. Moving to a new city, especially one as big and busy as London, can be daunting, but Westminster made that transition so smooth. The support systems, the welcoming atmosphere, and the friendships I’ve made helped me settle in far quicker than I expected. Also, the range of opportunities outside of the classroom was a great surprise; there’s always something to get involved in.