Parool Khanal
Communications and Social Media Coordinator, Barnes and Lockhart
Master of Marketing with Distinction
She chose AUT because of the incredible industry exposure it offers students even before they enter the job market, says Parool Khanal who came to AUT as an international student from Nepal to study a Master of Marketing.
“I was already working as a marketing professional in Nepal, and I wanted to push myself beyond what had become familiar and predictable. Studying at AUT gave me the opportunity to experience a new academic environment, learn how marketing operates in a global context, and challenge myself both personally and professionally. I was really inspired by how connected AUT is – from the Big Four firms and global multinationals to local New Zealand businesses, professionals regularly come to campus to share their experiences through career events and workshops. I knew I wanted to be in those rooms, learning directly from the people I admired.”
She loved that the Master of Marketing included a strong focus on applied learning, with opportunities to work on real business cases and engage with industry-relevant topics.
“The highlights of my time at AUT were definitely my marketing classes and my final project on Waiheke Distilling Co. For my project, I explored route-to-market strategies for exporting artisanal gin to Asian markets while keeping the Waiheke brand story intact. It was such a valuable learning experience because I got to work directly with the marketing team at Waiheke Distilling Co., and it gave me the chance to explore FMCG in New Zealand and Asia in a much bigger way through research.
“I also led a team of five in a marketing pitch for New Zealand lolly manufacturer Mayceys Confectionery, and we won for the most feasible and creative marketing plan. My team and I were awarded a certificate and cash prize. These experiences enabled me to contribute ideas to real companies while still at university, which made the learning feel practical, exciting and meaningful.”
Supporting well-known Kiwi entrepreneurs
After graduating from AUT at the end of 2025, Parool now loves her role as the communications and social media coordinator for Barnes and Lockhart.
“My role at Barnes and Lockhart is quite varied, which is one of the things I enjoy most about it. As communications and social media coordinator, I help coordinate online communications across the many businesses and interests connected to New Zealand entrepreneurs Andrew Barnes and Charlotte Lockhart. Their work spans areas such as the four-day workweek, philanthropy, publishing, events and other initiatives across New Zealand and the UK, so no two days are ever the same.”
She enjoys the variety her role offers.
“My work involves developing communication strategies, managing social media, liaising with different partners and organisations, and helping keep everything updated and aligned across the various projects. One day I might be communicating with Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum in Wellington, and the next I could be liaising with a research team at Cambridge University in the UK. It’s a very diverse and exciting role, and I enjoy working at the intersection of philanthropy, art, advocacy and academia.”
Advice for other students
Parool has some great advice for other AUT students.
“My advice is to spend as much time on campus as possible, and stay connected with your lecturers and faculty. The lecturers at AUT are incredibly supportive and always go above and beyond for their students – often, a quick email can solve almost anything. AUT’s Employability and Careers team has also been wonderful and incredibly supportive. I received so many helpful CV tips from them before applying for jobs, along with guidance on drafting cover letters and preparing for interviews. What I really appreciated was that their support was not limited to one field; they offered workshops and resources both online and in person across different areas, which made it much easier to navigate the transition from study to the professional world.”
She also has some guidance for those interested in a marketing career.
“If you’re looking to build a career in Auckland’s marketing industry, I’d also recommend keeping your profile updated through AUT’s Employability and Careers team, especially your CV, and putting yourself out there, even if you don’t feel fully ready. Keeping tabs on all your guest speakers and industry experts on campus is key, so that you know exactly which companies to reach out to once you graduate. I reached out to my favourite companies who I knew from my guest lecture classes, and it’s almost always helpful to land that first job.
“Networking opportunities are available throughout the year at AUT, and if you’re shy or an introvert like I am, talking more with your lecturers can be especially valuable because they often have great advice and insights. My biggest advice is to get involved as much as you can, challenge yourself, and step into uncomfortable situations – because by the end of it, you’ll come out a different person.”
