The newest member of Marketing Manchester’s Communications team, Communications Assistant Adriana Da Silva is a recent graduate of University Academy 92 (UA92).
UA92, a higher education institution in Old Trafford, was founded by the legendary Manchester United Class of ’92 in collaboration with Lancaster University. The institution aimed to disrupt the higher education system by offering character and personal development alongside its courses that will help students get ready for the world of work.
With a more flexible learning model combined with industry-inspired education, UA92 has quickly become a leading skills provider in Greater Manchester. Offering courses in business, digital, media and sport, students can make the most of guest lectures, industry insight days, mentors and masterclasses.
As part of the second cohort of students to graduate from UA92, Marketing Manchester couldn’t resist the chance to ask Adriana about her experience at the region’s most game-changing institution.
Here’s what we’ve learned about her time studying and about our newest team member.
What did you study at UA92?
I studied for a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communications
Why did you choose to attend UA92?
After considering other universities and offers, I chose UA92 because it aligned with both my professional and personal goals. As a mature student, I was anxious about starting a new chapter and I knew I wanted to continue working through university. UA92 offers a set timetable of AM or PM, so I knew going in that I could have a set work schedule along with my course. And in my personal life, as someone who had moved to Manchester not that long ago, I wasn’t ready to leave it. Staying in Manchester, close to the city centre, had a lot of weight in my decision.
How did you find your time at UA92 and what was your favourite thing about it?
I absolutely loved the time I spent at UA92. I made great friends, met some special and inspiring people and had some amazing opportunities to work with partners and guest speakers. There are many things that made my time there so special, but the support and encouragement that lecturers, students and all staff at UA92 give to every single student make it such a warm and welcoming community.
Can you tell us about your role at Marketing Manchester?
I have recently started at Marketing Manchester as a Communications Assistant, supporting the team with journalist and influencer visits, dealing with media enquiries, delivering any administrative help as well as writing copy for the VisitManchester blog.
How did studying at UA92 prepare you for your role?
The coursework I completed helped me in different ways, but having lecturers with industry experience that I could rely on for advice as well as opportunities to network had a big impact on my communication skills which are essential to my role.
What’s your favourite thing about your job so far?
All the learning I am doing! I’m the kind of person that cannot stay still for long and I love a challenge, so keeping busy, learning and meeting new people has been the highlight so far.
What’s your favourite thing about Manchester?
There are so many, including the music venues, the tram system and the museums, but what draws me in so much is how vibrant the city is (even in the rain!). Having moved here from a small town, there is just so much to do that every day is different.
What is the one thing you could not live without?
My phone – it sounds shallow, but it’s because it keeps me connected to my family all the time.
What would be your spirit animal?
Definitely a cat. I am a really curious person but also very independent.
What are your favourite holiday destinations?
I prefer city breaks; I like to walk around and explore old streets and neighbourhoods in the busiest of cities. One of my favourite countries I visited was South Korea. I visited Seoul, Incheon and Busan in 2017 and it was a memorable trip.
What’s your drink of choice?
I like fruity drinks, so anything with strawberries or peaches is usually my thing.
If you weren’t working at Marketing Manchester, what would your dream job be?
Something I would love to do is to write a book, I wanted to be an author when I was about 14 or 15.