What were you doing before you joined the MBA in International Luxury Brand Management program?
Before joining the MBA in International Luxury Brand Management I was working in the public relations industry in Canada. I was working at an international PR agency in Toronto, focusing my efforts on FMCG products. PR agencies tend to a lot of different things, so each day was very different. Some days a lot of time was spent building relationships with editors, bloggers and vloggers across the country and the next I would be planning a media event.
Why did you decide to join the MBA?
I spent my career working mostly with FMCG products but had always wanted to gain more knowledge of the luxury world. I entered this MBA in order to broaden my knowledge and to also help me transition from a role in public relations into a marketing role.
"There are definitely a couple of things that applicants should take into consideration. First, be sure that you want to be in luxury"
The beauty of this program is that it is placed in one of the major centers for luxury, so even when you're not in the classroom or doing group work, you have the ability to be exposed to luxury, culture and art. The school also has strong partnerships with many different luxury houses and so you're often provided the opportunity to meet, network and learn from industry leaders.
What do you hope to achieve throughout the year?
What am I not trying to achieve this year, is the real question! Like all the students here, I left a comfortable life and successful career to come to this program. I plan to learn everything I can this year and take full advantage of the opportunities that we are given!
What are your professional goals after you finish the MBA?
I have always been passionate about the perfume and cosmetics industry. My ultimate goal after this program is to be able to combine my already existing professional knowledge with what I've gained throughout this MBA. Ultimately, I think moving in to a marketing role in-house with a cosmetics industry would allow me to do this.
What advice would you give to someone who is applying to the program?
There are definitely a couple of things that applicants should take into consideration. First, be sure that you want to be in luxury. This program is curated specifically so that you can enter the luxury industry with a good base of knowledge. Everything that you do in this program is related to luxury..so just be sure! Second, begin to think of what sector you'd like to enter - is it watches, fashion, cosmetics or jewelry. It's important to at least start thinking about it and doing some research into it before coming to the school.
Last but not least, come prepared to learn and work hard. The program is 1 year, so it is intensive. You'll be given great opportunities and you'll be learning from everyone and everything!
by Teresa Chen