Grow your future in communications anywhere in Aotearoa

Grazel Gueco moved to Aotearoa New Zealand to complete her Master of Strategic Communication on campus at the University of Canterbury. With this programme now available online through Tuihono UC | UC Online, the impact of this degree is extending beyond the UC campus, and can be studied online anywhere, anytime.   

Since graduation, Grazel has been working as a Marketing Coordinator for Tait Communications in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Around her busy schedule, Grazel reflected on her studies, and what she gained from this master’s degree in communication!

What made you choose New Zealand, and UC, for your postgraduate study? 

I’d like to think it was a gut feeling. Once I settled on New Zealand as the destination, UC stood out as the obvious choice to pursue my master’s in strategic communication.

Having done my bachelor’s in the densest city in the world, Manila, I wanted a complete change of scenery - and I was fortunate enough to have the choice. I admittedly knew quite little about New Zealand outside the fact that it was naturally beautiful and that there were more sheep than people. I simply had the impression that New Zealand was a safe and progressive country - two things I’ve found to be true thus far.

Based on the UC website, the MStratCom programme sounded like a great fit for me. It aligned the skills and experiences I wanted to have, along with my ideal timeline. UC appealed to me the most because it promised world-class education coupled with a vibrant (but grounded) international student life.

What was the highlight of your time in the programme and at University of Canterbury?

I enjoyed meeting new people and being exposed to so many different cultures. It was quite surprising to see the number of Filipinos and international students studying at UC - it felt like a nice little community tucked away in this corner of the world. International student events and activities were a highlight for me, and in many ways, helped me plant roots in Christchurch.  

I was also able to make strong connections and friendships through my programme. The support and camaraderie that I experienced especially towards the end of my programme will always have a place in my heart. Lastly, my lecturers were not only very talented, but they were also very kind. 

How did the Master’s prepare you for your role in the New Zealand workforce?

Through the help of my lecturers and peers, I was able to immerse myself in Kiwi spaces and global frameworks of thinking, which made it easier to adjust to the NZ workforce. It also helps that the workplaces I have been in so far have been quite diverse! 

What advice would you give to other international students considering postgraduate study in comms? 

Practical tip: Do your research and plan ahead. One thing I wish I had done was consider what life would look like after graduation. It took me about a year to land a role in my field, but all things considered (now that I’m employed) I’d do it all over again.

Something more encouraging: It’s easy to feel uncertain or overwhelmed, especially in a new country, but your unique voice and perspective are your greatest strengths. The programme isn’t just about academic growth- it’s about discovering your confidence, building connections, and learning how to work with others from different backgrounds. The journey might be challenging, but it’s worth it.

Considering postgraduate study in communications? UC’s Master of Strategic Communication is available online or on-campus, with dedicated on-campus or online enrolment support.