Maja from Poland shares why she chose to study her marketing masters at Brighton
Polish student Maja Godziszewska shares her experience of studying her postgraduate degree in marketing at the University of Brighton.
Maja has recently graduated from our Marketing (Branding and Communications) MSc, and is now working as a freelance marketer.
Maja shares what motivated her to apply to Brighton, what her time was like studying here, and what it was like to adjust to a new city.
You can find out more about Maja’s experience by reading her Q+A below.
What made you apply to study at Brighton?
“I came to Brighton on a day trip and immediately fell in love with the city. Incredible artistic energy, freedom, a place that inspires with all its essence; I had found the Brighton effect.
“I felt a powerful sense that this was the next step in my journey. So, after finishing my bachelor’s degree at Southampton Solent University in Product Design, I immediately knew I wanted to do my masters here.
“It was nerve-wracking because I was starting from scratch – without friends or familiar places, but my initial fear quickly turned into excitement at the opportunity to discover this place.”
What was your experience of studying our Marketing (Branding and Communications) MSc?
“I first started working in marketing back in high school, and it was an area that fascinated me. I felt that this MSc would complement my design background, while also giving me the opportunity to further develop my passion and skills in the field.
“That’s why I chose the branding and communication pathway; not only did it build on my previous education but also offered me a broader career path. I truly enjoy creating, exploring, and finding innovative solutions. It felt like the perfect fit.
“The modules have taught me a great deal and opened my mind to new ideas. I enjoyed the following modules the most: Business Solutions in Action, Buyer Behaviour, and Digital Marketing. These modules were taught by outstanding lecturers, whose engaging and insightful teaching style made their classes especially inspiring and enriching for me.
“Business Solutions in Action was particularly important to me because it gave us the opportunity to work with well-known UK plumbing company, Dyno-Rod. We were able to ask questions directly to the client and work with their brief to deliver a live presentation. Together with my team (Zesty), we created ideas and a presentation that won first place.”
“This module taught me how to collaborate with people different from myself, including those I hadn’t worked with before; how to perform under time pressure; how to work creatively as a team, divide responsibilities, and ultimately deliver a professional presentation to a client.
“Overall, the course not only strengthened my skills in branding and communication, but also gave me real-world experiences that I can take forward into my future career.”
What was your experience like studying a masters degree in the UK?
“I moved from Poland to the UK in 2020 to begin my undergraduate degree. That first move to England wasn’t easy. I was stepping into the unknown: no family, no friends, a new country, a new culture, and a completely different education system – which I must admit was very different from what I had experienced back home, but in many ways it was a positive change.
“Because of my earlier experience, I thought moving to a new city for my masters would be much easier. However, it still felt like starting over.
“My first weeks in Brighton were challenging – I was looking for a place to live, sorting out documents, looking for a job, and getting used to life in a completely new city. Eventually, I found a lovely flat just seven minutes from the sea, discovered my favourite coffee shop, and began to settle in.
“Homesickness was definitely there, especially missing my family, my dogs, the food, and even the language. At the start, I needed daily online contact with my family, which really helped.
“Over time, I reminded myself why I was here – to grow, learn, and work towards my dreams. I also met people from my home country living here, and I connected with many international students at the university. This cultural diversity created a sense of shared understanding – we all knew the challenges of living far from home, and that made things easier.
“In the end, my biggest takeaway is that you can’t give up – you must embrace the challenges, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward towards your goals. Everything else eventually falls into place.”
What are your careers plans?
“I’m still exploring and figuring out exactly what I want to do, but the most important thing is that I’m excited to keep discovering and developing myself in both marketing and design.
“One of my biggest dreams has always been to work in Formula 1, and that goal was a big reason why I decided to pursue my masters degree in the first place. At the same time, my head is full of ideas, and I’m also passionate about the film, music, and art industries. Right now, I’m working with a team on an exciting project to launch a jewellery brand in the UK. It’s been a fantastic and creative experience so far.
“I have to admit that my time at the University of Brighton has been such an amazing experience that I’m even considering the possibility of continuing my academic journey with a PhD. Whatever happens, I’m genuinely excited and open to whatever new challenges and opportunities come my way.”
What advice would you give to other international students considering studying at Brighton?
“Come with an open mind and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Studying at the University of Brighton is not just about lectures and assignments; it’s about building a new life in a creative, diverse, and inspiring city.
“Don’t be afraid if things don’t fall into place immediately, that’s part of the journey. Whether it’s finding accommodation, adjusting to the teaching style, or learning where to get the best coffee, every challenge will teach you something. Take the time to explore the city, talk to people from different backgrounds, and say ‘yes’ to opportunities, even if they scare you a little.
“And remember, it’s normal to miss home – everyone does. But you’ll find your rhythm, your favourite spots, and your own community here. Before you know it, Brighton will feel like a second home, and the experience will shape you in ways you can’t imagine before you arrive.”
Thank you to Maja for sharing such lovely words on her time at the University of Brighton, we wish her all the luck for any future endeavours!
Interested in postgraduate study at the University of Brighton?
Clare Cornwell • September 2, 2025