Part 2: Staying the Course: Birgitta Koskinen’s – an RKC Student’s Reflections on Resilience, Support, and the Dissertation Process

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In the first part of this blog series, Birgitta – an MBA in Leadership and Sustainability student at Robert Kennedy College reflected on the inspiration behind choosing the program and the initial impressions of its unique, purpose-driven approach. Now, in Part Two, the focus shifts to the realities of navigating the program—beyond the curriculum and into the lived experience of balancing academic ambitions with personal and professional responsibilities.

This instalment explores the challenges she encountered along the way, particularly in managing time effectively as a remote learner juggling multiple commitments. It also highlights the support structures and digital resources provided by the College, which proved essential in staying on track. From leveraging peer collaboration to accessing academic guidance, Birgitta shares how the online learning environment became both a challenge and a catalyst for growth.

As the journey progressed into the demanding dissertation phase, the experience deepened—not only in academic rigor but also in clarity of purpose. Birgitta reflects on how the program has shaped their vision for the future, preparing them to lead with confidence, adaptability, and a stronger sense of direction in a world that increasingly values sustainability and ethical leadership.

Let’s continue to hear Birgitta’s story:

What were the biggest challenges you faced while studying online?

My biggest challenges during my studies were related to writing, especially mastering the Harvard style, as I don’t consider myself a good writer in general. At times, I longed for the opportunity to ask questions and solve issues immediately, but I also understand that an academic degree requires independent problem-solving.

Were there specific resources or support systems that helped you overcome these challenges?

University of Cumbria’s instructions helped me solve challenges and develop my writing skills. I also recognised academic writing styles and models from the studies I read during my studies, and I gradually internalised the Harvard citation style.

To avoid typos, I used the free version of Grammarly. At the same time, I had to be careful, as automatic assistants, such as Word’s own spell checker or autopilot, can easily change the original context of the text. I had to pay special attention so they would not mess up the Harvard style formatting.

Did you participate in any online study groups or forums? If so, how did they contribute to your learning experience? Was it easy or difficult to engage and participate?

I actively participated in every course’s online discussion forum, following the instructions and discussions of both the class and the professor. It was a useful and effective way to learn. I did not participate in any study groups or other similar activities.

Were there additional resources (e.g., online libraries, tutoring services) that you found particularly helpful?

I found several resources particularly helpful:

  • Google Scholar and related databases
  • The University of Cumbria electronic library
  • Emerald Insight publishing
  • ScienceDirect literature
  • Taylor & Francis Online library
  • Google libraries

My dissertation topic was subconsciously clear to me from the beginning of my studies, and it took definite shape as I progressed. I wanted my dissertation topic to address the most pressing and widely discussed needs within working life. However, even with such an inspiring topic, the writing process itself was challenging due to the vast amount of data I found to utilise.

Once I had a clear structure and scheduled my interviews, the process took about six months in total. I spent the first three months on the initial part of the paper and the following three months on conducting the research and finalising the dissertation. It required very meticulous and structured time management on my part.

How has your online education prepared you for your future career?

Online learning demands a high degree of discipline and self-motivation. Without a physical classroom, I was solely responsible for managing my time, meeting deadlines, and staying on track with my studies. This has strengthened my ability to work independently, a crucial skill in any professional setting. The experience has taught me how to be proactive and take ownership of my tasks and projects.

The entire process required me to become highly proficient with various digital tools and online platforms for research, collaboration, and communication. I honed my skills in using virtual libraries, academic databases, and video conferencing software. This experience has made me comfortable and effective in a remote or hybrid work environment.

Participating in online discussions with a diverse group of international students and professors exposed me to different perspectives and working styles. This experience has significantly improved my ability to collaborate and communicate effectively across cultural boundaries, a skill that is essential in today’s globalised workplace.

Advice for Future Students:

What advice would you give to new students starting their journey at an online university?

Don’t Give Up

Most importantly, remember that no matter what, you should never give up. This journey will be one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life. Enjoy the ride!

Are there any strategies or tips you found particularly useful that you would recommend to others?

Don’t stress. A calm and focused approach allows you to better internalise the material.  Structure – time – managing oneself! 

In the end, the dissertation journey was far more than an academic requirement—it was a test of resilience, a lesson in perseverance, and a powerful reminder of the value of support systems. The challenges were real, but so were the moments of growth, discovery, and quiet triumph. As an RKC student, I found strength not only within myself but also through the unwavering encouragement of mentors, peers, and family. Staying the course wasn’t easy, but it was worth every step. For those still navigating their own paths, know this: resilience is built one decision at a time, and with the right support, success is not just possible—it’s inevitable.

If you’ve been inspired by this journey and are ready to take the next step in your own academic and personal growth, consider applying for an online Master’s program with RKC and start shaping your future today.

Leading with Purpose: An RKC Student’s Reflections on the MBA in Leadership and Sustainability

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When she first enrolled in the MBA in Leadership and Sustainability with Robert Kennedy College (RKC) in partnership with the University of Cumbria, she wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Like many working professionals, Birgitta had questions: Would online learning feel isolating? Could she really manage postgraduate study alongside a full-time job? Would the content truly challenge and grow her perspective on leadership and sustainability in today’s fast-changing world?

Now well into her studies, Birgitta finds herself reflecting on just how transformative the experience has been.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

In this blog, she shares her journey as an online student—what motivated her to choose RKC, how she stays engaged in a digital classroom, and how the programme is shaping her approach to leadership, sustainability, and impact. Whether you’re exploring MBA options or simply curious about the real experience behind online learning, her story offers a personal window into what it means to study with intention, flexibility, and global perspective.

Let’s dive into Birgitta Koskinen’s journey!

What motivated you to pursue your degree online?

I chose to pursue my MBA online because the working world has shifted to a digital environment, and I believe a globally connected online workspace is our present and future. Robert Kennedy College’s close partnership with the University of Cumbria, which was ranked 8th globally for quality education in 2020, further solidified my decision. The Leadership and Sustainability program perfectly aligns with my long-term career advancement goals and my desire to update my degree. It was an opportunity to learn how to be an influential leader now and, in the future, as well as to coach managers and leaders on achieving better results, which is a core mission of the organisation. As an idealist, I also sought to deepen my understanding of organisational behaviour and sustainability within a leadership and business context, as I believe people should be able to thrive and flourish.

Studying online allowed me to fit my studies into my personal life and work schedule. Initially, I was intimidated by the idea of returning to school, and I was also nervous about studying in English—not to mention writing in Harvard style, which frankly terrified me. I’ve always been a poor writer, even in my native language, and I see myself more as a “storyteller.” However, the program’s flexibility—the option to pause my studies or even withdraw—lowered the barrier to entry. The anonymity of online learning initially felt safe. In the end, my youngest child inspired me to leap, telling me, “Mom, it’s now or never—you can do it.” Encouraged by their support, I embraced the challenge in a truly international environment.

How would you describe your overall experience with the online university?

From the very beginning, I noticed that we were truly required to commit, read, and, above all, understand rather than simply memorise. The professors showed incredible professionalism and passion for their subjects, which was contagious and kept me engaged. They simply made me want to push through, even when it felt impossible.

I also faced some personal life challenges during my studies, and the student care team was invaluable with their support and advice. They were always kind and quick to respond, and their helpful, encouraging approach was truly heartwarming. My extensive work experience made it easier to internalise concepts and research findings, as I could directly recognise and relate to them from my professional life.

Photo by Nick Morrison on Unsplash

Overall, the experience exceeded my expectations. I’m honestly speechless. I felt like I was on an international journey from the comfort of my own home, and returning to a purely Finnish work culture was a bit of a shock. If I had completed my degree in my home country, I probably wouldn’t have gained the same genuine understanding of different cultures and the international perspective on the topics.

Which courses or subjects did you find most engaging, and why?

Choosing a favourite course can be tough, as they all offer unique insights. However, my favourite ones were Organisational Behaviour and Leadership and Sustainability.

Why Organisational Behaviour?

This course was incredibly engaging because it provided a deep understanding of human dynamics in the workplace. I learned how to analyse team behaviour, understand different roles, and identify what makes an organisation function effectively. It helped me recognise my own strengths and areas for development, which are crucial for personal and professional growth.

Why Leadership and Sustainability?

I found this course surprisingly profound. It went beyond basic theories and provided a comprehensive look at leadership throughout history, connecting it directly to the needs of the future. It taught me that a leader’s role is not just about managing people, but also about making a positive impact, commitment and so much more to develop sustainable leaders and leadership. This course ignited a passion in me to influence and contribute to a more sustainable world.

How Other Courses Connected

The other courses were also vital. Marketing broadened my perspective on what a leader needs to consider, and Information Management was essential in understanding technological solutions, from cloud computing to data analysis. Lastly, while Financial Management may not have been my passion, I recognised its foundational importance—an organisation can’t function without it. These courses all reinforced the idea that success isn’t about knowing everything, but about understanding the big picture and knowing when to rely on experts.

Which module or subject was the most challenging for you, and how did you approach it?

Photo by Carlos Muza on Unsplash

The most challenging subject for me was Finance Management. It’s funny, because even though I love numbers, I just can’t seem to become an accountant—the same gap I had when I was young was still there. Instead of dwelling on that, I focused on my strengths. The final assessment was a wonderfully challenging assignment that really got my brain working, and I absolutely loved it. The professor made everything admirably simple, which helped a lot. By concentrating on my strengths, I was able to improve my weaknesses.

Can you share any memorable moments or highlights from your academic journey?

One of the most memorable moments of my academic journey was during the Tackling    Global-Local Challenges in Ethics, Responsibility and Sustainability course. We watched a video about children in the chocolate industry, and even though the topic was familiar, it was deeply moving and truly highlighted the complexity of global issues. During a workshop, I promised I would never eat chocolate again. At that same moment, a classmate told me, “No, you absolutely should eat it. It’s important and provides a livelihood for entire families.” It was a moment that made me realise my own smallness and the immense complexity of the issue.

This experience is just a small piece of the bigger picture that my studies revealed. I gained countless insights and ideas from my fellow students. They were all incredibly smart, and I’m so grateful for them and their thoughts.

However, the moments that stand out the most are when I was waiting for the Final Assessment results, wondering if I had passed. I approached my studies humbly, progressing one course at a time. 

Early on, a professor said something that has stayed with me ever since: “Commit, invest in yourself, and don’t give up. No one can ever take this degree away from you. You can lose money, property, your home, your car, your health, even your loved ones, but you will not lose this degree.” And it turned out this way. During my studies, I lost my mother, I slipped on ice and broke my hand, and I got an eye infection that required multiple treatments. But no one could take the degree away.

What has been the most rewarding part of this journey?

The most rewarding part has simply been the entire journey. Studying in a multicultural environment alongside professionals, guided by passionate professors, and utilising the latest research was an indescribable experience that changed me and my way of thinking. The excellent result of my final course in leadership and sustainable development was an absolute confirmation that I am on the right path.

Photo by Markus Krisetya on Unsplash

As her journey through the MBA in Leadership and Sustainability continues, so too does her personal and professional growth. The challenges, the insights, and the connections she’s making are shaping not only her academic path but also the leader she is becoming. This is just the beginning of her story. In the next installment of this blog series, Birgitta will delve deeper into specific modules, share practical strategies for managing online learning, and offer tips for staying motivated and connected in a virtual classroom. Stay tuned for more firsthand insights from a student navigating the future of leadership—one sustainable step at a time.


From Fragmented Tactics to Strategic Vision: A Digital Marketing Journey 

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In a previous blog, we explored the exciting world of digital marketing and discussed how pursuing an MBA from Robert Kennedy College (RKC) can be a pivotal step in unlocking your future in this dynamic field. From strategic thinking to data-driven decision-making, the programme offers a robust foundation for aspiring digital leaders.

This week, we are pleased to bring you a more personal perspective—insights directly from Gohar Hovsepyan, a current RKC student, who shares her journey, experiences, and reflections on navigating the MBA programme.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

The Digital Marketing module has been a journey of significant professional and personal growth. As an Executive MBA student at Robert Kennedy College (RKC), this course offered a panoramic view of an ever-evolving landscape, forcing me to challenge preconceived notions and deepen my understanding of a field I thought I already knew. This reflective report delves into my learning process, evaluating key insights, articulating my strengths and weaknesses, and outlining a clear path for future performance. 

The Digital Playing Field: A New Perspective 

The initial units, particularly “Introduction to Digital Marketing” and “Strategic Thinking in the Digital Age,” provided a robust foundation. Before this module, my understanding of digital marketing was largely fragmented and tactical. I perceived it as a collection of disparate activities like social media posting or running ad campaigns, rather than an integrated strategic discipline. This course directly challenged that view, helping me see digital marketing as a cohesive, customer-centric strategy deeply interwoven with overall business objectives. My initial strength lay in my eagerness to learn and my ability to synthesize new information quickly. I found myself rapidly absorbing core concepts, from the critical evaluation of various digital tools to the strategic alignment of digital efforts with business goals. However, I identified a weakness early on: a tendency to seek immediate, clear-cut answers. This sometimes hindered my ability to embrace the nuanced and ambiguous nature of digital strategy, as I was prone to trying to fit complex scenarios into simplified frameworks. 

My Learning Journey: Process and Motivation 

My approach to studying this module was a blend of independent learning and collaborative engagement. The structured learning units provided by RKC were my primary resource. I found the combination of readings, case studies, and interactive forum discussions particularly effective. I supplemented these with my own research, using platforms like LinkedIn Learning and industry blogs to see how the theoretical frameworks applied in real-world scenarios. This hands-on, self-directed learning was crucial for building a deeper, more practical understanding. 

The group and individual assignments were pivotal in this process. The group assignments were especially insightful, as they required us to deconstruct case studies and apply theoretical frameworks to understand diverse customer behaviors. While this was a collaborative effort, it also highlighted a personal challenge: my underestimation of the emotional drivers behind online consumer behavior. While I could logically follow customer journey maps, truly empathizing with the digital customer’s needs—as highlighted in Unit 4—required a conscious effort to move beyond purely rational analysis. Feedback from my peers was instrumental here; it often highlighted instances where my initial proposals, while technically sound, lacked a deeper understanding of the human element, pushing me to refine my approach. 

Motivation throughout the course was a key factor in my success. As an Executive MBA student, balancing work, life, and studies can be demanding. My motivation stemmed from a clear understanding of the module’s relevance to my career. I kept my motivation high by regularly connecting the course material to my current professional challenges and future career goals. The discussions with fellow students, many of whom faced similar professional dilemmas, also created a strong sense of community and shared purpose that fueled my drive to learn and excel. 

Key Insights and Self-Discovery 

The latter half of the module was a turning point. Units on the Digital Marketing Mix and Customer Relationship Building dismantled my preconceived notion of the marketing mix as a static concept, demonstrating its dynamic adaptation in the digital age. I realized that a successful digital strategy often involves a symbiotic relationship between online and offline experiences, a nuance I had previously overlooked. My initial skepticism towards the long-term relationship-building aspect in the transactional digital environment was directly confronted by Unit 8, which highlighted the critical importance of nurturing online relationships for building brand loyalty and advocacy. 

The final units on KPIs and Ethics were particularly transformative. While I understood the theoretical importance of measurement, translating marketing objectives into actionable, measurable KPIs proved challenging. My initial attempts often involved generic metrics rather than specific, strategic indicators, which highlighted a need to develop my analytical rigor. 

Finally, the unit on ethical, social, and political aspects was a crucial turning point. My prior understanding of ethics was largely confined to avoiding obvious misrepresentation. This unit expanded my awareness to encompass the legal, moral, and cultural nuances of online activities. It challenged my inherent bias towards maximizing reach without fully considering the societal implications. This forced a deep interrogation of my own value sets, pushing me to consider not just “what works” but “what is right” in the digital sphere. 

Future Learnings and Opportunities 

The Digital Marketing module has equipped me with a robust theoretical framework and a critical lens to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape. Several key areas for development have been clearly identified: 

● Deepening Analytical Rigor in KPI Development: My weakness in defining robust KPIs is a clear area for development. I plan to take online courses and workshops specifically on marketing analytics and data visualization to gain practical experience. I will seek opportunities to manage marketing projects where I am solely responsible for defining and tracking campaign performance, moving beyond theoretical understanding to practical mastery. 

● Cultivating a More Empathetic Digital Approach: While I have made strides in understanding the emotional drivers of consumer behavior, consistently applying this empathy remains a priority. I will actively seek out resources on behavioral economics and user experience (UX) design, specifically focusing on how psychological principles influence online interactions. By intentionally incorporating user personas and empathy mapping into my digital strategy development, I will ensure the human element is central to every decision. 

● Championing Ethical and Responsible Practices: The rapid pace of digital evolution demands continuous learning, particularly regarding its ethical implications. I will commit to regularly following industry publications and research on emerging technologies like AI in marketing and the metaverse. Engaging in discussions around data privacy and responsible AI will be a priority, ensuring I maintain a sophisticated awareness of the evolving digital landscape. 

In conclusion, this module has been a transformative journey. It not only broadened my knowledge but also refined my self-awareness, providing a clear roadmap for confident, ethical, and continuously enhanced performance in the dynamic digital world.

#DILO – A day in the life of an RKC master’s student – June H

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As a former Education advisor, if I had to pick one of the most frequently asked questions by prospective students, it would be “How many hours do I need to study?”  

The vast majority (if not all) of our students are working and leading hectic professional lives. Some are motivated and have already decided to undertake a master’s, while others contemplate the unknowns of an online programme. In my experience, two things affect their decision the most.   

First – finances, and second, being able to strike the perfect work, study, and life balance. While I cannot completely help you with the finances (partially yes – check out the discount offers currently being offered on our online MBA, MSc, and LL.M programmes), I thought what I could do to help was to bring some facts to light about the other unknowns – what does a typical day in the life of an online master’s student look like?  

Today, we’re looking at June’s typical study days. June, an RKC & University of Cumbria’s graduate, offered us these answers:  

An Introduction  

Which programme did you choose and why?  

I chose MBA programme as it matched my work experience and that is what I wanted to do after graduation.

The Study Plan   

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?  

Each Monday morning I would check the requirements for the modules I was registered into. I would then plan my week accordingly. I put in about 20 hours a week for each module, plus some extra time when completing the assignments, mid-term or final. Each week I tried to respond on the discussion board by Wednesday and then would respond to others on the discussion in the latter part of the week. Of course, sometimes life gets in the way, and I would have to put in more time one week, to make up for the time I missed due to other obligations.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)  

I work best in the morning, so this is my preferred time when possible. To study in the evening I would often go to the local library for a quieter atmosphere that at home.

To study in the evening June would often go to the local library for a quieter atmosphere that at home.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

Probably more than I should have! It depended on the amount of research that was needed for each assignment. On an average about 20 – 30 hours for mid-terms and 40 – 60 hours for finals, with the exception of the residency with the final assignment after returning – I’m guessing I spent closer to 120 hours on that final assignment.

Travelling and Communication  

Did you travel for work? How did travelling impact your ability to study?  

Studying would become difficult due to disparate bandwidth availability. Having said that, it was often an opportunity on the plane or between flights to study during quiet times.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?  

The five hour time difference between Ontario Canada and Switzerland was bit of a problem, especially trying to get assignments in on time.

A typical day as a master’s student  

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?  

Since I work best in the morning, I would get my coffee and start by checking the discussion boards and making note of what I needed to give a response for. I mapped out my reading for the week, and so would spend my allotted time doing the reading and listening to webcasts. By Wednesday each week, I would put my contribution to the discussion board.

Any advice?  

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies.  

Make a schedule early on to get the mid-term and final assignments completed.

Create files on your computer to keep your modules, assignments, and research organised so that when you are completing your assignments you can easily find your materials. I noticed that many students did not participate in the discussion boards, and I think they missed a valuable part of the learning. And potentially we missed out on their experience and perspective that they may have shared with the rest of the class.

 

June advises to create files on your computer to keep the modules, assignments, and research organised

All right, so this was a sneak peek of a typical day in  life as a master’s student. I hope you find it insightful and informative and that it gives you an idea of what to expect when you enrol for our master’s programmes. Watch this space as we have many more interesting insights coming up! 

#DILO (A day in the life of) a master’s student – Pascal

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts, we have been bringing you insights into the life of our master’s students, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of the realities of online studies and aid you in decision making.   

This week we take a look at a day in the life of one of our master’s degree student, Pascal. Here are a few insights and some words of wisdom that Pascal had to share from his own experience:  

An Introduction  

Who are you, really?  

Pascal S, a journalist for more than 25 years  

Which Uni are you studying with?  

University of Cumbria  

Which programme did you choose and why?  

MBA Media Leadership, to get even better in my job as a journalist/editor/redactor in chief. And another challenging part was to study the programme in a foreign language.  

  

The Study Plan  

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?  

I studied between one and two hours per day during weekdays and at least two hours per day during the weekends, sometimes more.  

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)  

Because of the family and the job, the only suitable time to study was the evenings during the weekdays rather than in the afternoons & evenings during the weekends.  

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

ItI took me around 10 days for the interim assignment and a little more than two weeks for the final assignment. Coordination for the final assignment is quite delicate as I wanted to end it at least a week before the due date, in order to check, read, correct, Turnitin Test, etc.  

  

Travelling and Communication  

How did travelling impact your ability to study?  

It did not, as I did not travel a lot—only a daily commute.  

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?  

I consider interaction as satisfying, although I prefer chatting directly with people. But I enjoy reading contributions and experiences all around the world, which is a bonus for online teaching.  

  

A typical day as a master’s student  

What does a typical day as an Online Master’s student look like for you?  

After the daily chores and home duties, I read the assignment documents, trying to find out what is the most relevant or, at least, the general picture. I take notes, references and try to see if there are other sources to complete the assignment. Sources I will use for my final assignment.  

  

Any advice?  

Study a bit each day (one to two hours in a day), prepare yourself a work schedule, take notes, write down your ideas and start your assignment(s) early; otherwise, the time pressure will kill you.  

Well, indeed, incredibly helpful advice from Pascal. A proactive early start not only saves you from an unpredictable situation but also helps you follow your study plan with confidence. To get you through the master’s studies, we have an excellent faculty team of subject-matter experts, who guide and encourage students to achieve their potential.   

If you have been dreaming of joining a master’s programme or have had this personal goal to gain a higher education, now is the time! Take the valuable advice from our current students, gain from their experience, add your own unique study strategy, and make your own success stories! I would love to feature you one ce day on our college blog.  

Chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, the application process, and for information on discounts we might be offering at this time.