Miryana Stoyanova

Customer Experience Specialist at Awin Global

My time at Greenwich was a turning point and remains an integral part of who I am today. It shaped me in ways that went far beyond academic knowledge. It taught me that what you put into your experience is exactly what you get out of it.

I chose Greenwich because, to me, it felt like a portal to another reality. I come from a very different town in Bulgaria, so London – its people, its energy, and the international opportunities the university offered – felt like stepping into a completely new world. Even before I travelled to the UK, I had seen photos of the campus and thought, this is where I want to spend my days.

One night, much like the one I am writing this snapshot on now, I realised that the only thing that could truly change my life was the choices I made and where they might lead me. I needed that change more than I even knew at the time.

Looking back now, I realise those three words describe not only the university, but also my own transformation. My time at Greenwich was a turning point and remains an integral part of who I am today. It shaped me in ways that went far beyond academic knowledge. It taught me that what you put into your experience is exactly what you get out of it. Once I understood that, I began to immerse myself fully, seeking opportunities, saying yes to challenges, and putting myself forward.

If I could give one piece of advice to future students, it would be this: do not hold back. Step into the unknown, make the most of every opportunity, and trust that it is not as scary as it seems. Everything becomes what you make of it.

When I think back on my time at Greenwich, it brings a warm feeling. It was one of the best periods of my life. There is a little sadness that it is over, but even more gratitude that it happened, and that I made it happen for myself.

A course that opened many doors

Almost five years later, I am incredibly grateful for every decision that brought me here. Since then, I have travelled abroad, gained valuable work experience as a placement student, and learned two new languages. I met people from all over the world, discovered different cultures, and built friendships that remain some of my closest today. The people I met made the journey all the more colourful and unforgettable.

It was a transformative experience in every sense. I did not just learn about the world and what it has to offer – I also learned about myself, my limits, and what lies beyond them. I learned how to step into the unknown, seize opportunities, and make the most of every experience.

There were so many memorable moments along the way and the course opened many doors for me: my placement year in the International Office, summer school in Spain, and the friendships and memories created during that time.

Growing in confidence

At the beginning, not everything felt easy or certain. Moving abroad, speaking a different language, and adjusting to a new culture could feel overwhelming. I wish I had known sooner that it is not as frightening as it seems. Every person has something valuable to offer, no matter where they come from. Sometimes, all you need is motivation, energy, positivity, and the willingness to grow into your independence.

Throughout my time at Greenwich, I learned to adapt and to face challenges with a smile. Once I realised that showing up for yourself and being clear about what you want can set everything in motion, my mindset began to change. I truly believe that fortune favours the brave. When you are brave enough to put yourself out there, opportunities begin to follow.

Studying at the Greenwich played a big part in that journey.

Campus, community and career

I can still picture those daily walks across the Greenwich campus. It felt historical, cultural and cinematic – almost like stepping onto a film set. Being surrounded by that environment made even ordinary routines feel inspiring; it gave you the sense that you were the main character in your own story.

There were many people who influenced me throughout my journey, but I was especially shaped by the friends I met along the way. We were all navigating similar uncertainties, and seeing others succeed reminded me that I could do the same. Being surrounded by like-minded people who were all striving for growth encouraged me to aim higher and take initiative.

My time at Greenwich prepared me for the professional world long before I secured my first graduate role. Working as a Student Ambassador and completing my placement in the International Office gave me hands-on experience in communication, organisation and cross-cultural collaboration. I learned how to represent an institution professionally, manage responsibilities independently, and adapt quickly in fast-paced environments. Those roles strengthened my confidence and helped me understand what it means to contribute meaningfully within a team.

By the time I entered the job market, I had already developed resilience, adaptability and a proactive mindset. Adjusting to a new country, studying in a different language, and consistently stepping outside my comfort zone built the determination I needed. Securing my first role came with challenges, but I approached them with the belief that growth comes from action.

I have since continued my journey in the world of affiliate marketing and now work as a Customer Experience Specialist at Awin Global. In this role, I use the communication skills, cultural awareness and problem-solving abilities I developed at university every day. Alongside my professional path, I pursued my interest in the creative side of advertising by completing an additional course in Graphic Design, further expanding my skill set. I have also volunteered at cultural and sports events while continuing to explore my passion for travel, languages and global experiences.

One of my proudest recent highlights was my team winning Performance Marketing Team of the Year at the Global Performance Marketing Awards. I am grateful to work alongside such talented and inspiring women who continually make things happen.

Looking back, Greenwich did not just prepare me academically. It equipped me with the confidence, practical experience and global mindset that have helped me adapt in a competitive industry. The experiences I embraced during my time there laid the foundation for the career I am building today, and they continue to shape the person I am becoming.

  • BA Hons Advertising and Digital Marketing Communications with Language, 2021

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