“We’re all tired of Zoom quizzes, so it’s key to not rest on those initial lockdown tropes.”
Interview with Ed Pearson, Marketing and Communications Manager at BCUSU.
The “What education marketers are saying” series shares insight from marketers working in the education sector, whether that’s for universities, agencies or student communities.
Interview
Kyle (Education Marketer) You’ve recently moved from higher education to students’ union marketing. What’s the biggest difference so far?
Ed: The variety. In my previous roles, I’ve worked on recruitment and conversion, as well as current student comms. At BCUSU, my role includes everything from our advice centre, to income generation and promoting the Victorian Students’ Union Pub. I’ve found my home here and been incredibly lucky to inherit a high performing team.
Kyle: You say you have a “joy” for finding an idea. Tell us more about your process.
Ed: It’s about diving in and getting involved. In previous roles, I’ve worked with specialist courses, so finding a personal interest, and building relationships with academics has been invaluable. Horology (the study of time) is not something I ever imagined I could talk for hours about, but it’s all in the life of a university marketer.
In my new role, I’m finding enjoyment in working with the Elected Officer team. Supporting them with their campaigns and priorities for students is something very close to my heart. Not only am I a current MA student at BCU, but my stepdaughter is in her second year at the University of Manchester too.
Kyle: What’s the key to keeping student activities fresh and engaging?
Ed: Making sure the content is relevant and interesting. We’re all tired of Zoom quizzes, so it’s key to not rest on those initial lockdown tropes.
Again, this is where our Elected Officers are so important. They’re working with the societies, receiving feedback and putting together events the students are keen to engage with.
I’m really excited about what we’re doing for Diwali this year. In collaboration with the International Office, we’re looking at creating dance videos, recipes, social media takeovers, fashion competitions and much more.
It's always great to have strong engagement numbers, but if our events have a positive impact for a just handful of people, it’s enough to make it all worthwhile.
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