Oisin Kelly

Master of Marketing student

Deciding to come to AUT for his studies was easy, says Oisin Kelly who came to AUT as an international student from Trinidad and Tobago to study a Master of Marketing.

“From my academic and professional experiences, I developed a love of using data-driven insights to create innovative storytelling. So, when I decided to pursue my master’s degree, I was looking for a programme that bridges those two aspects. AUT’s Master of Marketing does this exceptionally well. I chose AUT for two very specific reasons: the amazing professors and lecturers I’d learn from and the practicality of the programme, which uses real-world New Zealand business cases. This combination made AUT stand out against other institutions.”

He appreciates the practical experience students are getting throughout the programme.

“I’ve enjoyed how this programme enables students to get real experience, from examining actual marketing cases to implementing the theory being taught to established business within New Zealand. It goes beyond teaching and equips you with the skills needed to succeed, which takes away the fear of not having the skills you actually need to enter the workforce. It has helped me dispel my imposter syndrome when it comes to being a marketing professional. The project I’m most proud of so far is my live-tracking proposal for New Zealand Post, which highlighted my ability to apply the theoretical frameworks and concepts to an actual business challenge.”

Supported to thrive
Oisin wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.

“I’d 1000% recommend AUT to others, and actually I already have. Choosing to further my education on the opposite side of the world, away from everyone and everything I knew, was daunting especially with the 15-hour-plus time difference. AUT staff have had my back – they supported me in this transition and continued to check in to make sure I had adjusted. From events to on campus organizations, AUT provides a seamless way to adapt into the community. I also appreciate the melting pot of global cultures at AUT. I’ve enjoyed meeting and becoming friends with people from all over the world and from so many different backgrounds. The exchange of ideas and perspectives on the world and life this enables is great preparation to work globally.”

There are a few staff members whose support he has especially appreciated.

“Associate Professor Rouxelle de Villiers has supported me throughout my studies. On the first day of class, Rouxelle gave the entire class her WhatsApp contact, telling us that she understands how difficult the transition to studying in New Zealand can be for international students, and encouraging us to reach out for advice or recommendations about New Zealand. She closed that gap between professor and student. Since then, I’ve discussed my career goals with Rouxelle who has been nothing but encouraging, and has this awesome way of challenging you to be the best version of yourself.

“AUT’s Rainbow Student Support team has also been very influential for me during my time here. From mixers and events to their supportive staff, this service has enabled me to build a safe, accepting and inclusive community here in New Zealand, which, as a proud member of the LGBTTQIA+ community, I wouldn’t have thrived without.”

Advice for other students
Oisin – who hopes to move into a career in advertising and promotions when he completes his master’s degree in 2026 – has some great advice for other students.

“My advice to other students is to take full and complete advantage of all that AUT has to offer both academically and socially. For your studies, utilise all of the services available, from the extensive library database to the Employability Lab and the supportive lecturers. These are all tools at our disposal that make a massive difference in managing your workload and setting yourself up for success after graduation.

“Socially, I fully endorse all students to get involved in organisations and networks on and around campus – they’re a great facilitator to building community and finding friends.”

His last piece of advice is simple: don’t be afraid of challenges as these challenges offer the biggest breakthroughs and opportunities for growth.