Astari from Indonesia
Astari graduated with an MA in Applied Linguistics and TESOL in 2018 and presently works as an Associate Director of Enrolment at Hult International Business School. Find out more about Astari’s journey
About Astari's career
Describe your current occupation:
I am working full-time as an Associate Director of Enrolment at Hult International Business School in Hong Kong.
My responsibilities include overseeing the enrolment process for Hult’s Master’s candidates in the Asia Pacific region, including but not limited to recruitment, application processing, communication management, and business development.
I work together with the regional marketing team to develop marketing strategies that will result in successful B2B and B2C relationships. There are many inspiring activities to influence each designated market, such as managing fairs, various business-related conferences, and conducting workshops on career development.
Obtaining a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics and TESOL has shown me that this course can open doors to various future career opportunities, whether in teaching or non-teaching roles, like my current job.
Studying Linguistics at Newcastle University
What was your work/study experience before joining this course?
Before joining the MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL programme at Newcastle University in 2017, I worked as a teaching assistant at my previous university in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
I studied English Language Education at a Bachelor level and consequently chose to pursue an MA in Applied Linguistics and TESOL, which aligned with my earlier studies. I found that having relevant work experience before starting my Master's was very useful, as it enabled me to connect theoretical insights to what happens in a real-life classroom.
How was the course for you?
The MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL program has taught me many things related to delivering and presenting English both inside and outside the classroom. However, it goes beyond solely understanding how to teach English to speakers of other languages. It also equips us with the knowledge of how to approach students who come from different countries and backgrounds, which may influence their language learning process.
Furthermore, obtaining a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics and TESOL has shown me that this course can open doors to various future career opportunities, whether in teaching or non-teaching roles, like my current job.
How has studying Applied Linguistics and TESOL at Newcastle helped you in your career?
Studying Applied Linguistics and TESOL at Newcastle University has helped me understand the cultural aspects that go beyond language itself. It has not only taught me how to teach and employ effective methods within the classroom but has also taught me how to understand each individual I encounter throughout my career.
Pursuing a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics and TESOL led me to my current position as an Associate Director of Enrolment at Hult International Business School's Asia Pacific Office in Hong Kong. While I didn't choose a career in teaching, my Master's degree has proved highly beneficial to me in my professional journey.
What advice would you give to a student interested in studying Applied Linguistics and TESOL?
Love what you are doing! Regardless of your long-term goals, whether they are within the field of education, such as becoming an English lecturer, or working in an education company, pursuing an MA in Applied Linguistics and TESOL is the right choice for you.
However, education alone will not guarantee a good job if you do not make proactive efforts towards achieving your life goals. Leading a social life and building a network of people around you can bring you opportunities leading to a successful career.
What was the best thing about studying at Newcastle?
Newcastle is a city renowned for its rich culture, iconic landmarks, and friendly locals, making it feel like home from day one for all international students.
Everything is affordable for students, and the Newcastle campus is conveniently located in the city centre within walking distance of everything.
I love Newcastle because it boasts a large and diverse student population, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a wide range of cultural events for international students to enjoy and fully immerse themselves in student life.
