Pursuing a Master of Science in Cultural and Creative Communication was a pivotal decision in my career. After gaining some professional experience, I realised that to grow and access more meaningful opportunities, I needed to deepen my understanding of communication, particularly in how culture, creativity, and strategy intersect. This degree gave me the tools, confidence, and critical perspective that helped me secure my role as a Young Graduate Trainee in Communications at the European Space Agency (ESA).
While the arts, languages, and humanities tend to be undervalued in favour of more technical fields, my experience is a clear example of how these disciplines are not only relevant but essential. Working in an international, science-driven environment, I see every day how vital strong communicators are. They can shape narrative, foster understanding across cultures, and make complex ideas accessible.
For a long time, working at ESA felt out of reach. But this degree gave me the skills, perspective and focus I needed to progress into the role I had been aiming for. It was a practical step that made a real difference to my career, and I'm glad I took it. Knowing what I know now, I'd make the same choice again.
Iliana Hernandez Valdivia
As an international student, the Master's in Cultural and Creative Communication from the University of Aberdeen allowed me to complete an internship while undertaking my postgraduate studies, which enhanced the embedding of my knowledge and provided a first-hand chance to experience a UK workplace.
In particular, the Public Engagement for Arts course, where a thorough content and communications strategy needed to be developed, set the foundations for my final project and helped secure a role with the company where I currently work. A final remark would be that the optional courses offer the flexibility to specialise towards your career goals, which in my case steered me towards courses related to marketing and law.
