From Graduation to Opportunity: My Journey Through a Master of Science in Marketing
- Makenna Nystedt
- Jun 4
- 3 min read
Graduating with a Master of Science in Marketing from the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management this past May has been one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. It marks the end of years of dedication and the start of a dynamic new chapter. As I look back on my time in the program, I want to share the valuable lessons I learned, the practical skills I gained, and my aspirations for the future, particularly in the thriving Denver metropolitan area.
A Transformative Educational Experience
Embarking on a Master's program was intimidating, but my journey at Eller was both fulfilling and inspiring. The curriculum was purposefully crafted to cover all aspects of marketing, with each class offering insightful knowledge and hands-on experience.
In my Digital Marketing course at the University of Arizona, I gained hands-on experience with the core foundations of digital strategy, including social media, email marketing, website development, and Google ad campaigns. Through a comprehensive simulation, I applied concepts like keyword optimization, A/B testing, and strategic budget allocation to maximize ROI. The course also emphasized interpreting campaign metrics, optimizing landing pages, and leveraging digital tools to improve overall campaign performance. This experience sharpened my ability to think analytically and strategically when building and managing digital marketing efforts.

Delving into Brand Management
In my Brand Management course, I explored the core principles of building, sustaining, and evolving a brand. This class was especially insightful in helping me understand how to connect authentically with audiences, identify when a brand’s messaging needs to be reevaluated, and create strategies that build long-term loyalty. We examined how brand equity is developed and how storytelling, positioning, and consistency shape consumer perception.
As part of the course, I completed two group projects. One focused on analyzing a brand with exceptional identity and impact, where my group studied Red Bull’s branding strategies. The other centered on rebranding campaign, where my group developed a full rebrand concept for Blockbuster. These projects sharpened my ability to assess brand strength, diagnose gaps, and apply creative strategy to revitalize or reinforce a brand’s presence. You can view these projects here on my website.
Navigating Marketing Research for Managers
In my Marketing Research for Managers course, I learned how to apply research methods to guide strategic decision-making and better understand consumer behavior. The course covered a wide range of research techniques including A/B testing, observation, interviews, focus groups, surveys, and experiments. We also explored best practices in designing and conducting research, as well as the ethical considerations involved in gathering and using consumer data. This class gave me a strong foundation in selecting the right research approach for different business objectives and interpreting insights to inform marketing strategies.

Seeking New Opportunities in Marketing
As I step into the next chapter of my life, I am excitedly seeking job opportunities in the Denver metropolitan area. The area’s thriving business environment, coupled with its focus on innovation, makes it an ideal place for a graduate like me. I am particularly drawn to roles that focus on digital marketing, brand management, and event production.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
Reflecting on my journey through the Master of Science in Marketing program fills me with gratitude and optimism. My education, experiences, and the relationships I formed have prepared me for the challenges ahead.
Supported by my network and inspired by what I have learned, I feel ready to take on the marketing world. To everyone navigating your career paths, remember that every experience shapes who you become. The journey is just as essential as the destination, and I cannot wait to see where mine takes me next.


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