Alexander Hickson

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it?

I'd been working in the recruitment industry and realised that I enjoyed helping businesses with their branding and public relations far more than their recruitment. So, I decided to go back and study, and I loved the practical elements of my MA after doing a very theory-based Bachelors degree. The simulations and public relations side of my course were fantastic and gave me invaluable skills that I still use to this day in my PR career.
 

What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most?

I enjoyed being able to practically use my skills, work with people in different stages of their careers and turn my passion into something actionable that I was able to build a career on.

What were your career aspirations when you arrived? Do you think the experience and skills you gained here will help/helped you in your future career plans? In what way?

I knew I wanted to go into either corporate communications or public relations, but the course allowed me to realise that going into a creative PR agency was the way forward for me.

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?

I started working in the digital PR industry, and after 18 months I'm now working at one of the top creative search agencies in the UK; Rise at Seven. I also had one of my first solo campaigns nominated for an EU Search Award.

Where are you currently working, and what is your role?

I am a Senior Digital PR Executive at Rise at Seven, working towards a Strategist role.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I want to keep creating innovative and creative PR campaigns for my clients, eventually leading a team.

Do you think your experience and skills gained here will help you in your future career plans? In what way?

Yes definitely, I'm currently working with some of the best brains in the business and we're on the cusp of something exciting in the digital PR space.

What was your impression/experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the student union, the City of Leeds and the region itself? What would you recommend to future students?

I moved to Leeds for my undergraduate degree in 2014 and it's now home for me. I knew there was only one place I wanted to continue my studies and that was Leeds, it's an incredible city and the university is world-class.

What would you say is your defining memory of studying here? (eg friendships made, confidence in your abilities, or any single event that you will always remember?) And would you recommend the Business School to others?

I have friends that will last a lifetime and it's really prepared me for my career - you mix with people from all walks of life and it's really affirming to know you're amongst some of the best talent in the world.