Keston Kuechel
Business Strategist & Development Coordinator, Compass Ecospatial, Portland, Oregon, USA
Master of Marketing with Distinction
The international experience drew him to AUT in Auckland for postgraduate study, says Keston Kuechel who came to AUT as an international student from the USA to study a Master of Marketing.
“I chose to study at AUT to gain international experience and because of the university’s rankings and affordability. I really enjoyed the diverse international experience, the world-class campus, my experience in and around Auckland, as well as the ability to travel to the rest of New Zealand.”
The practical project at the heart of his master’s degree was one of the highlights for him.
“I was able to use AUT’s alumni connections to complete my project for a firm out of Texas, which I was then able to show to prospective employers, ultimately landing me a job. The Texas firm was also kind enough to offer me references, as well as the ability to list myself as a contractor for the company on my CV.”
A career in environmental consulting
After completing his studies at the end of 2023, Keston has now returned to the USA where he works as a business strategist and development coordinator for environmental consulting firm Compass Ecospatial.
“I enjoy contributing to the rewilding of natural spaces, and the differing workload and experiences I get from working in such a fast-paced and variable industry. My work focuses on marketing, partner outreach, opportunity management and many other things that keep my job fresh and interesting. I’ve found that my international experience at AUT has helped me reach and communicate with a variety of multi-cultural stakeholders.”
He is proud of what he has already achieved in his career so far.
“I’ve developed some very interesting initiatives within my company that have captured quite a bit of capital, and have developed novel solutions to long-standing issues that could serve to accelerate environmental markets.”
Advice for other students
Keston has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“My advice is to focus on making connections and thinking outside the box – grades and classes are only half the battle.”
He also has some guidance for those interested in a career in consultancy.
“Consulting requires you to be an adaptable and agile problem solver. Be prepared to get outside of your comfort zone and remember that you can tackle any challenge if you’re dedicated enough to learn how.”
