MS Marketing Student Spotlight: Nisha Achieng

Nisha Achieng (MS Marketing ’24) is graduating this summer from the University of Florida Warrington College of Business’s Master of Science in Marketing program with a solid foundation for her aspirations in brand strategy.

Q: Tell us about yourself.

Achieng: “Hi! I’m Nisha Achieng, currently pursuing my MS Marketing degree at UF, originally from Uganda. I have an undergraduate degree in business administration with a concentration in management from Ohio Wesleyan University. Beyond academics, I have a passion for makeup, and one of my favorite brands is Fenty Beauty. I was particularly inspired by their innovative 2017 launch campaign, where they introduced 40 diverse foundation shades, sparking my interest in marketing.

“My interest with marketing lies in the strategic aspects of branding and executing large-scale marketing campaigns. After graduation I would like to delve deeper into how brands can effectively position themselves in competitive markets and engage with diverse audiences.”

Q: Why did you enroll in the MS Marketing program?

Achieng: “The main reason I joined the MS Marketing program was to help me gain more skills that I could use to launch a career in marketing. I selected the MS Marketing program because of UF’s prestigious ranking and reputation as a top public school in the US and the academic excellence of the Warrington College of Business. The program’s curriculum offers a wide range of marketing electives, both analytical and non-analytical, that I was able to tailor to fit my interests.”

Q: What have you liked about the MS Marketing program?

Achieng: “I appreciated the diverse range of electives available within Hough, allowing me to choose courses that align with my interests. I’ve taken multiple management courses that integrate concepts from my marketing classes, providing a well-rounded understanding. Learning from professors with varied academic and industry backgrounds has been incredibly valuable, as they’ve shared insights into different industries and how to apply this knowledge in today’s marketing landscape. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed the networking events offered by the program, which provided opportunities to connect with industry professionals and alumni from the extensive Gator network.”

Q: What are your professional aspirations following graduation?

Achieng: “I plan to pursue a career in brand strategy, drawing on the skills I’ve gained in marketing strategy and brand equity to help companies effectively position their brands in the market. My goal is to create impactful strategies that resonate with consumers and drive brand loyalty. I am passionate about continuously learning and adapting to industry trends, aiming to make significant contributions to the field of marketing while advancing my professional growth and leadership capabilities.

Q: What advice would you give to incoming students?

Achieng: “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! One of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in the MS Marketing program is to actively engage with professors and peers. Take advantage of the opportunity to interact both in class and at various events hosted throughout the year, such as Warrington Career Week. These events provide invaluable insights and networking opportunities that can enhance your learning experience.

“Joining organizations like the Hough Ambassadors is another fantastic way to integrate into the program. As a member, you can connect with fellow students who share their experiences and advice on different courses and professors, helping you make informed decisions about your academic path. Additionally, participating in these organizations allows you to develop leadership skills and contribute to the community.

“Don’t overlook the importance of attending social events, either. These gatherings are not just fun; they’re essential for building a support network and adjusting to life in Gainesville. At the end of the day, your experience in the MS Marketing program is shaped by your involvement. Engaging in both academic and extracurricular activities will enhance your learning, expand your opportunities and lead to a fulfilling graduate school journey.”

Q: What do you wish you’d known before starting the program?

Achieng: “Graduate school is a distinctly different environment from undergraduate studies, requiring a shift in mentality and approach to your work. It’s important to adapt to the increased expectations and depth of analysis. Additionally, there are many immersive classes outside the MS Marketing program that I can participate in, providing valuable opportunities to broaden my skills and knowledge.”

Q: Tell us a cool fact about yourself.

Achieng: “I have a TED talk on the fascinating world of memes and their impact on communication! I absolutely love memes — they’re not just humorous images, but a powerful form of expression that transcends language barriers. They have the ability to convey complex messages and emotions in a way that resonates with a broad audience, making them a unique communication tool in today’s digital landscape.”