Chanikarn Boonbardan
International Marketing MSc, 2021. Diversity Mentee, 2020/2021.
What does it mean for you to participate in the diversity mentoring programme?
The diversity mentoring programme helps me to grow my connection. I have the opportunity to learn about other cultures, exchange opinions and prepare myself for my multinational friends. I would say the programme is the preparation stage for me to get ready at King’s due to the pandemic, the environment of studying is different but the programme helps me to prepare myself for the course and King’s events. I’m able to learn a lot of things that I didn't teach in class such as King’s service. I’m glad that I joined the programme as it allowed me to build my confidence. I almost gave up several times because of the difficulty of online learning in master degree but my mentor cheered me up and told me that it is normal to feel that but she believed that I can do it and tried to find me academic support.
What did you do personally to make the most out of this programme and above all, of your mentor’s help during these six months?
My mentor and I started with making short term and long term goals for my master degree and we tried to discuss the possible directions and see what we can do to achieve the goals. I constantly communicate my progress with my mentor and ask for her opinions so that I’m able to get feedback. My mentor also tried to send me the beneficial resources I can access to improve my academic skills. Mostly I focus on the academic aspect because there is not much I can do with the social aspect due to the lockdown but I would say if I have another chance to join this programme, I would try to get the suggestions about social aspects and social activities in King’s.
Your biggest success (e.g., learning about job applications and different industries, getting an internship or new job, CV writing, etc.)
Since I haven’t finished my master degree, I haven’t applied for any job in my country. But my biggest success during the programme is that I have joined King’s Business School Student Association as a VP postgraduate education and have the opportunity to manage KBSSA social media content which is related to my course (International Marketing). My mentor encouraged me to apply for a candidate. That is my most proud moment during studying since I can contribute my skills and learn how to work as a committee. It helps me grow my teamwork skill, communication skill and critical thinking skill. I’m also able to meet many amazing people in association.
What is the biggest advice you would give to future applicants/participants?
I would advise future applicants to join the diversity mentoring programme and make the most use of it since they help a lot in terms of supporting your academic and mental aspects. Do not be afraid to explore King’s activities and learn new things. It is your time to grow your connection. King’s offers many activities and opportunities to improve your skills so the mentor can help to guide you about how to access the facilities. Another advice from me is to emphasize on work-life balance. It can be difficult to study for a master's degree. You will have to put in a lot of time and effort but it is also a great opportunity for you to explore new cultures, friends and places so divide the time for studying and travelling.
What is the value for you of having an alumni connection?
Alumni can help guide you on the academic path and understand your feelings better since they have been through it before. So you will have mental support from them. I’m so grateful that I have the connection with my mentor since I learned what I should do to achieve my goal or what I should avoid to minimize the obstacle. I would say the value is friendship and sincerity. My mentor is considered as my first friend from my master degree since the programme was almost fully online and people mostly depend on themselves so I had no one to talk about academic and non-academic activities. Although the programme ends, I will keep in touch with my mentor