Yuka Sakurada
Master of Marketing student
AUT Academic English Course (AUT AE)
She loved studying at the AUT English Language Centre, says Yuka Sakurada who came to AUT as an international student from Japan and is now completing a Master of Marketing.
“What I liked most were the supportive teachers. They guided us so that we could really improve, and they always gave detailed individual feedback on tests, which helped me clearly understand my areas for improvement. I also found the course content very useful. It was regularly updated to match the skills required at university, so everything we learned has been helpful in my master’s degree as well.
“By studying the AUT Academic English Course (AUT AE), I gained skills in reading, writing and listening, which are all essential for academic study. Academic writing was my weakest area and the most challenging, but the lecturers taught us structure, useful vocabulary and how to use references through techniques like paraphrasing. We also had writing tests and received individual feedback. In the master’s programme, I have many essay assignments, so writing skills are especially useful. I still keep the materials from my English language classes and use them now.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the English Language Centre to other students.
“The time to focus on academic English was very valuable. The teachers were very supportive, and everything we learned in class was directly useful for the master’s programme I’m studying now. In addition, we could use AUT’s facilities and services, including the library and café, and make friends at AUT before starting the master’s degree, which helped reduce my anxiety before the programme began.”
Focused on marketing
Yuka says she is thoroughly enjoying the Master of Marketing she is currently enrolled in.
“In this programme, we have opportunities to listen to guest speakers and work on assignments with real clients and case studies. Communicating directly with clients can be difficult and sometimes makes me nervous, but it’s also very exciting and a great experience. These experiences have shown me how challenging business can be. Once I graduate, I’d like to work in the marketing field because I really enjoy my current study. I’m also interested in a career where I can support international students as I’d love to give back the kind of help I’ve received.”
She has also appreciated the vibrant student life at AUT.
“There are many enjoyable free events at AUT, and I especially like the cultural events. One memorable experience was joining the Songkran Festival, the Thai New Year event in April. I joined the water activity with my friends, and it was incredibly fun. I also appreciate that AUT offers many useful seminars that support both your studies and career preparation. I think it’s a great idea for students to join as many events as possible while studying here.”
Advice for other students
Expecting to graduate with her Master of Marketing at the end of the year, Yuka has some great advice for other students who are considering their own university journey.
“Studying in a second language can be challenging, and sometimes you may feel you need to work harder than others. But AUT is very supportive of students, so don’t worry too much, just focus on doing your best and you will see your progress.”
There is plenty of support if you need it, she adds and names two lecturers who had a particular impact on her studies.
“In the English language programme, my teacher was Jonny Crook. He is a very kind teacher who truly understands international students. He always cared about each student individually, showed us clearly what we needed to do, and created a very supportive learning environment. His guidance made me feel more confident. In the Master of Marketing, Dr Helene Wilkinson is a very dedicated and supportive lecturer. Her assignments are challenging, but she always gives very detailed feedback, which I find extremely useful.”
