Tara MacCormac

Navigating the Marketing World: My Journey at the University of Ottawa

November 9th, 2023 | Tara MacCormac

As a young marketing professional, I never imagined I'd find myself at Canada's largest defense and security trade show, yet, there I was, on a journey that would test my skills, broaden my horizons, and teach me just how much planning goes into event and trade show marketing. This is the story of my experience assisting in planning and attending CANSEC 2023 with Babcock Canada.

Choosing the Telfer School of Business at the University of Ottawa

As a young aspiring marketer the decision to attend the University of Ottawa was not a difficult one. Though I applied to a variety of post-secondary institutions across Ontario and Quebec, however, none were a better fit than the University of Ottawa. With distinguished alumni, an award-winning CO-OP program and countless professors with a wide array of experience in diverse industries, the University of Ottawa was the best institution to begin my marketing journey. Professional development was not the only consideration weighing on my mind when choosing where to attend university. As a high school student in the greater Ottawa area, I had a desire for independence and to leave home, however, the convenience of living near my family, familiar surroundings, and the comfort of home-cooked meals provided me with a safety net and support that I now wouldn't trade for anything. I was fortunate enough to move out and live in both a dorm and apartments through my academic career. This created a balance that has given me a sense of autonomy. This balance between proximity to home and newfound independence provided me with a strong foundation for self-discovery and academic success, making my university experience truly enriching.

Collaborative Learning Environment

The marketing industry is all about teamwork and creative problem-solving, and the University of Ottawa mirrors this reality through its countless collaboration-based and hands-on courses. Whether it's group projects, case studies, or interactive class discussions, I've had numerous opportunities to engage with my peers, who each bring their unique perspectives and insights to the table.

Here are some amazing practicum classes to check out:

• International Business, allows you to collaborate with peers to compete in a case competition judged by industry professionals from a variety of Ottawa businesses.
• Promotional Planning Practicum, which allows you to deliver a solution to a real-life marketing problem brought forth by a different business each year.
• Digital Marketing Strategies, teaches you how to create a fully functional website and explore the intricacies and strategies to build a successful digital presence for a brand, hobby or oneself.

Through these interactions, I've learned that the most powerful marketing solutions often arise from the collective knowledge and creativity of a group. As a marketing student, I've come to appreciate that collaboration isn't just a classroom exercise; it's a fundamental skill that will serve me well in my future marketing career.

Networking and Career Development

The opportunity to network and begin building my professional resume through classes, events, workshops and the co-op program at the University of Ottawa has been instrumental in shaping my journey as a young marketing professional. From creating marketing campaigns to conducting market research, these experiences have given me valuable insights into the marketing industry and allowed me to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting.

Additionally, the co-op program has been a game-changer. It is an avenue for hands-on experience which gives marketing students like me a chance to work for all types of businesses. I was able to hone my skills, clarify my career goals and gain a competitive advantage through working at RVezy, Giatec Scientific and Babcock Canada. As I navigate my way through the dynamic world of marketing, the University of Ottawa's commitment to networking and career development, alongside the co-op program, provides a strong foundation for success in this ever-evolving field.

The Telfer School of Business at the University of Ottawa has made my journey as a young marketing professional remarkable. It has equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to thrive in the dynamic world of marketing. I am excited to take the next step in my career, and I owe much of my success to the outstanding education and support I received during my time at the University of Ottawa. Whether you're considering a marketing program or are already on a similar journey, I hope my story has inspired you to pursue your passion and take full advantage of the opportunities that come your way.

Be sure to connect with me on social media for updates on new blog posts, exciting insights, and the latest trends in the world of marketing. Stay tuned for more inspiring content, and until then, let's keep the marketing conversations alive!

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