Balancing Family Life and Career Goals: Studying an Online MA

Kenie shares her story on pursuing an online MA in Fashion Marketing while attending to family and full-time work.

This article was originally written for the University of the Arts London by Chloe Bowen.

For Hong Kong-based marketing professional Kenie, studying an online MA in Fashion Marketing at London College of Fashion (LCF) offered a way to pursue her fashion ambitions without putting her career or family life on hold. We spoke with Kenie about how part-time online learning gave her flexibility, focus, and global connections.

What made you decide to study Fashion Marketing at LCF?

I've been working in marketing for about 8 to 10 years, and over the past 5 or 6 years, I started working with fashion clients. I wanted to understand the fashion industry more deeply and explore whether I should focus specifically on fashion marketing, but I wasn't sure how to make that happen alongside my full-time job and family.

Why was online learning the right fit for you?

The flexibility that came with online learning was everything. Because I work during the day in Asia, being able to study in the evening and at my own pace made it possible. It meant I didn't have to move my whole family or take a break from my job. I could balance everything — work, study, and life.

How would you describe the online community at LCF?

The online community at LCF felt like a global village. I got to collaborate with classmates from all over the world and we still stay in touch.

What were the top skills you developed during the course?

Definitely my research skills. I studied Fine Art for my undergraduate degree, so I was very familiar with the art studio environment, but I had almost no academic research knowledge or experience. The course taught me how to design surveys, collect and analyse data, and turn insights into papers or strategies. Those skills have given me a much broader and more holistic point of view.

Hear from Kenie directly in this short YouTube video:

If you're looking to develop your fashion marketing or business expertise further, UAL Online offers 2 online postgraduate courses designed to help you take the next step in your career:

• Online MA in Fashion Marketing
• Online MA in Fashion Business

Not sure which path is right for you? Read UAL's explainer on Fashion Marketing vs Fashion Business here.