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mariana-contreras

Mariana
Contreras

Mexico
The reputation of both Nottingham Trent University and the course has driven me to choose to study with them online.

More about Mariana

Two years ago, I left my life in Mexico City and my job as a communications manager to move to Europe. Since then, I have lived in four different countries: Slovenia, Germany, Austria and now The Netherlands. Nomadic life has been a great adventure, but it also comes with challenges, which is why I decided to pursue online education.

Why did you choose to study an Online Masters in International Relations?

I have always been passionate about politics and the complex human relations between different cultures and ideologies. I had previously studied Communications and had interned for the First Lady of Mexico. As my nomadic life began I realised I was really interested in understanding more about EU politics and beyond.

I moved to Europe for my husband's career, however I didn't want to put my life on hold while he was in his training programme. Therefore studying online was the perfect fit for my current lifestyle. I researched both campus-based and online masters, and the Online MA in International Relations seemed to be the perfect fit.

How have you found the support from NTU during your course?

The conversations I had with the Admissions team were very clear and transparent - and I loved that. Also, the reputation of both Nottingham Trent University and the course has driven me to choose to study with them online. The course has expanded my knowledge of politics and the EU. This has made my integration into the countries I have lived in much easier. It has also strengthened my writing skills and made me a much more critical thinker and a better writer.

How would you describe your experience of the virtual learning environment?

Studying online requires a lot of discipline, and this course has taught me to be stricter with deadlines. I believe that acquiring an Online MA in International Relations will help my career in furthering diplomatic relations and create better job opportunities in the future.

What advice would you give to anyone considering an Online Masters in International Relations?

My personal advice to anyone considering enrolling on this course is to start a weekly schedule as soon as possible and try your hardest to stick to it, as this will help you stay focused as you progress through the course. I would recommend this online course to others who don't wish to halt their careers completely due to life's changes. The course is perfect for anyone who is currently working and therefore lacks the free time to enrol on a campus programme, but still desires to push their education even further with a Master's degree.

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