Marc Arndt
Master of Marketing student
Already a business owner in Germany, Marc Arndt came to Auckland as an international student to complete a Master of Marketing and take his marketing knowledge to a more strategic level.
“I’m the owner of Lamasuli DACH GmbH & Co. KG in Schweinfurt, Germany. Lamasuli is a textile finishing and promotional products company. We offer embroidery, DTF, screen and sublimation printing, UV printing, laser engraving and graphic design for companies, sports clubs, schools and events. In 2025 we were recognised as a ‘TOP Dienstleister’ (top service provider) by ProvenExpert. As the owner of a business, I wanted to take my marketing knowledge to a deeper, more strategic level.
“AUT has a strong reputation for being practical and closely connected to industry, and that's what convinced me. I also wanted to study abroad, improve my English and experience a different business culture – and AUT's international, diverse community and its location in the heart of Auckland made it the perfect choice.”
Since starting his Master of Marketing, Marc has found the experience has given him more than the deeper marketing knowledge he came to AUT for.
“The Master of Marketing combines current theory, from consumer behaviour and brand strategy to digital marketing and research, with a strong practical focus. That was exactly what I was looking for. What I didn't expect was to build such an international network or to gain so much confidence in taking responsibility – which helps me a lot in running my own business. After graduating, I want to keep growing Lamasuli and put what I've learnt at AUT into practice every day. At the same time, my studies here have inspired me to seriously consider an academic career. The opportunities AUT offers, the depth of what we’re taught and the enthusiasm of my lecturers have made research and teaching something I’d love to pursue.”
Putting learning into practice
For Marc, one of the best parts of studying at AUT has been learning from people with different experiences and perspectives, while gaining skills he can put to use straight away in his own business.
“The highlights for me have definitely been the people. The lecturers at AUT are a young, motivated team who are passionate about what they teach and always there for you, whether you have a question after class, need feedback on an assignment or just want to talk through an idea. You never feel like a number.
“I’ve also enjoyed how applied everything is: we work on real business cases, and many lecturers bring their own industry experience into the classroom. Working in teams with classmates from all over the world has taught me a lot about different perspectives, which I benefit from every day. We’ve had lots of group projects, presentations and case studies based on real companies, and I’ve been able to apply a lot of what I learned straight away in my own business. These experiences taught me how to work with clients, present ideas confidently and turn theory into practical solutions. Today I use those skills all the time at Lamasuli, where we work with businesses, sports clubs, schools and event organisers.”
His experience in Auckland has also been about much more than what he has learnt in the classroom.
“New Zealand offers so many opportunities, both personally and professionally. Beaches, islands and incredible nature are right on Auckland's doorstep, so weekends easily turn into road trips, hikes or a day out on the water, often with friends I've met through AUT. People here are friendly, open and down-to-earth, and it's easy to connect with locals and other international students alike. I really appreciate the multicultural atmosphere in Auckland and the Kiwi ‘can-do’ attitude, which I'll take with me wherever I go.”
Advice for other students
Marc – who expects to complete his studies in early 2027 and is proud of the A-grade average he has maintained so far – has some great advice for other students.
“Be curious and get involved – take every chance to work on real projects, talk to your lecturers and connect with people from different backgrounds. And don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone; that's where you grow the most.”
He wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.
“AUT gives you a great balance of solid theory and real-world practice, with lecturers who genuinely support you and a welcoming, diverse campus. It's also a place where you make friends very quickly. Between group projects, student events and clubs, you're never on your own, even if you arrive in New Zealand without knowing anyone. You leave not just with a degree, but with skills, friendships and a network for life.”
