From Learner to Leader
Muhammad Jummadi Ramli, 32, soared through his Bachelor of Communication with Honours (BComm) programme, graduating with distinction at our 27th Convocation last October. His educational journey began in 2018 at the Sri Rampai Learning Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Living in Shah Alam, Jummadi currently serves as the Senior Executive of Brand and Communications, Creative, and Motorsports for the MKA Group in Puchong, Selangor.
He answered a Q & A recently, which we think can help you get to know BComm better.
- To kickstart our Q& A, please tell us about your job.
Currently, I am the lead of the Creative and Motorsports Business Unit at the company where I work. This unit is responsible for delivering an effective brand voice to a wide audience across regions in Southeast Asia and Europe.
- Why did you study BComm?
Around 2017, I planned to quit my job and study marketing full-time at a local university. However, a casual conversation with a colleague, who just so happened to be an OUM alumnus, convinced me to study at OUM and continue working.
By 2018, I had nearly 8 years of professional experience in creative production and advertising. Back then, even with all that experience, I was still eager to discover more; often it felt like I was solving a puzzle but with incomplete pieces. Upon discovering BComm at OUM, I became keen on truly understanding and grasping theories of communications so that I could piece them all together and become a better producer.
- In what ways was BComm relevant to your work?
Since I work in the creative and advertising field, I can say for certain that BComm dives deep into concepts, which allowed me to understand my audience better. Communication studies often emphasise audience analysis, which is undoubtedly crucial in advertising to effectively target and engage certain demographics.
Near the end of my studies, I became much more focused on research methodologies which could be applied to market research and understanding consumer behaviour, helping advertisers like me to create effective campaigns.
- What did you like most about studying BComm?
The best thing is how incredibly versatile it is. It’s like unlocking a whole new world of understanding of how we interact and connect with one another. While I learnt how to craft clear and concise messages, what really stuck to me is understanding how media shapes our perceptions, especially during this digital age where info can practically come from anywhere. To be able to analyse information thoughtfully and critically is a must-have skill.
- What is your opinion of the BComm tutors?
My tutors played a crucial role in shaping my educational experience. They were highly knowledgeable, dedicated and supportive throughout my academic journey. Their passion for their subject matter was evident in every lecture and tutorial session. I experienced both face-to-sessions and online classes/forums post-Covid 19. Even when the programme became fully online, the tutors remained approachable and willing to provide personalised feedback. This greatly enhanced my learning experience.
- How was the quality of the BComm modules?
The modules were very well structured and I could learn progressively without becoming overloaded with info. Each section and chapter focused on understanding a concept or theory, followed up with further explanations and case studies as to how it could apply to real-life situations. Plus, there were excerpts of research papers which were conveniently referenced so that students could discover further if they wished.
- How did the BComm degree help you in your career?
I work with 11 creatives who include editors, designers, and other producers, and also coordinate the creative work of multiple business units. This degree has enabled me to better articulate my thoughts, ideas and expectations when communicating with my team members. It also helps in collaborating with MotoGP teams, which consist of individuals of various nationalities and beliefs. I could understand their diverse cultural nuances, communication styles and sensitivities.
There you have it, the testimony of one of our star graduates. The BComm programme was a great match for Jummadi and it could be for you too. If you’re interested, click this link to find out more about the programme: https://www.oum.edu.my/all-programmes/undergraduate-programme/bachelor-of-communication-with-honours/
