Kristina Kaasik

What are you doing now?

I am currently working on two large international conferences – the World Gas Conference in Washington DC and Liquefied Natural Gas Conference in Shanghai. My responsibilities as the Logistics and Sponsorship Manager range from liaising with the venues and suppliers for the conference to being the main contact for our Sponsors and managing their deliverables. I get to work with energy giants such as BP, Shell and ExxonMobil, and global associations like the International Gas Union while being part of the most significant global gas conference that has been taking place since 1931.

What did you find most valuable about your course at Westminster? How did the skills you learnt during your degree help you to shape your career?

My course was part-time so I had plenty of time to work on my dissertation and inspect my chosen topic, which helped me become a bit of an expert in the area and has definitely played a part in helping me secure my job. The amount of independent studying that we had to do has also improved my research and critical skills and has opened my eyes to the academic future that I have the opportunity of pursuing.

Why would you recommend Westminster as a place to study?

The flexibility that Westminster offers to students like myself, which, having a full-time job while taking on a part-time MA I found extremely helpful. The advice that I got from lecturers and tutors as well my dissertation supervisor had been more than I could have ever asked for. Finally, the fact that the University is located in the heart of London (the best city in the world, might I mention) will give you access to guest lecturers and offsite visits that will open new doors to aid you in your future career.

What was the best thing about being a student in London?

The challenge of managing time and workload in a busy and slightly stressful city has really proved my abilities and helped me boost my confidence. The access to facilities among the London campuses has made the whole experience smooth and productive. Most of all, I simply enjoyed the fact that I was a student again.

What extra-curricular activities did you participate in that enhanced your time at the University?

Apart from the nights out with my course mates, I barely had time for any extra-curricular activities. However, the faculties advertise volunteering opportunities quite efficiently, and, as an Events student, I did take part in some interesting events like the Prudential Ride London and the Gala Dinner for the Ireland Fund.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of pursuing a similar career?

Get ready to face tough competition, especially if you decide to stay in London. However, there are also plenty of opportunities out there, plus a lot of global headquarters are based in London, so what better than an international events job that will take you all over the world. The adrenaline rush that you get to experience when being on-site running your own event after months of hard work will be worth the effort.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about yourself?

Network, network, network! Get out of your comfort zone and meet new people while you're in London, you never know when those connections might come in handy. The University will invite you to societies, events and to join membership associations – do it all. Most importantly, network within your course. I have made great friends from all over the world who have been my hosts in their home countries. If travelling is a passion of yours, this is the perfect way to do it, and you will make friends for life.