Exploring Real-World Marketing: My Placement Year Journey with Honda

Embarking on a career in marketing is as much about practical experience as it is about theoretical knowledge. For Kishan McGahan, a Marketing Management BSc student, his placement year with Honda Motor Europe proved to be a transformative step in his academic and professional journey. Working with Honda’s UK motorcycle marketing team, Kishan  has gained invaluable insights and skills that have shaped his career aspirations.

Why Marketing Management at Brighton?

When choosing a university course, Kishan was drawn to the University of Brighton for its balanced approach, blending academic rigor with hands-on opportunities like a placement year. Reflecting on his decision, he explained, “The course offered a well-varied approach to marketing while also providing the opportunity to gain practical experience.”

The University of Brighton itself offered more than just academics. For Kishan, the vibrant city was a refreshing change of scenery, complemented by an engaging learning atmosphere. “I thought a change of scenery would be nice and I settled on Brighton after looking further into the course,” he shared. He credits lecturers Dan Bennett and Liz Hawkins for making his experience even more enriching: “They’ve made it an even better experience through listening and interacting with the students.”

The Placement Year: A Gateway to Real-World Experience

From the outset, Kishan was determined to undertake a placement year, understanding the value of real-world exposure in shaping his career. “It was something I always wanted to do, to gain a better understanding of the career I want to move into,” he said. While the university provides ample support for placement hunting, Kishan took the initiative to secure an opportunity tailored to his personal interests.

Honda Motor Europe was a natural fit for Kishan, combining his passion for motorcycles with his desire to work at a globally recognized company. “I have a huge interest in motorcycles, and I also owned a Honda motorcycle at the time,” he explained. The placement allowed him to explore marketing within an industry he loved.

Life at Honda: Projects, Skills, and Personal Growth

During his year with Honda, Kishan immersed himself in a variety of projects that showcased the dynamic nature of marketing. His responsibilities included creating content for Honda Europe’s TikTok, managing UK social media accounts, and collaborating with clients on paid social and creative campaigns. “I got to work on multiple great projects, including managing and creating campaigns and events, and being part of an internal education project on licence law across the business,” he recalled.

These experiences not only enhanced his marketing knowledge but also helped him understand the workings of a corporate environment. “I have a much better understanding of the lifestyle and work environment in a corporate company, as well as many skills and confidence when moving into my future job,” he shared.

What’s Next?

As Kishan undertakes his final year and nears graduation, he is exploring his career options, with the possibility of returning to Honda depending on available roles. The skills and confidence he gained during his placement have positioned him well for whatever lies ahead.

Advice for Future Students

Kishan encourages prospective students to consider the Marketing Management BSc at the University of Brighton and embrace the placement opportunity if possible. “I think the course is extremely well-rounded, and if you are able to, try the placement route too” he advised. He also emphasized the course’s consistent improvements, driven by student feedback: “Look at the student satisfaction rates—they’re consistently improving the course and listening to the students feedback.”

Kishan McGahan’s journey is a testament to the power of combining academic learning with real-world experience. His placement year at Honda not only deepened his understanding of marketing but also paved the way for future opportunities. Whether returning to Honda or exploring new avenues, his experience at the University of Brighton has undoubtedly set him up for success.

Discover how the Marketing Management BSc at the University of Brighton can shape your future.