Mariana's Profile
Job title
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Academic qualifications
MSc Enterprise Management, MSc Accounting and Auditing, BA (Hons) Journalism, BSc in Accounting, MSc in Enterprise Management
"As a graduate of UCB, my dual perspective as both a lecturer and former student allows me to relate deeply with my students and help them integrate, learn, and thrive."
My expertise covers business and enterprise management, strategic planning, and leadership, with additional interests in professional communication and inclusive management approaches. I combine a strong academic foundation (I have four degrees in total) with a breadth of professional experience both in the UK and overseas.
After working as a Researcher at the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences in Ukraine, I embraced diverse roles that broadened my expertise - from serving as a city council Press Secretary to working as a journalist and later for a leading UK contract supplier of PPE (Personal protective equipment). I completed my Master’s in Enterprise Management at UCB, receiving the Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Award for exceptional endeavour and attainment, before progressing from a Graduate Teaching Assistant role to Lecturer in the Business and Enterprise department.
I’m passionate about bridging classroom learning with real business challenges, helping students to build both practical skills and critical thinking. My teaching is always grounded in real-world cases, thanks to my hands-on background in academic research, local government, and corporate operations. I’m a member of the Future Faces Chamber of Commerce (Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce’s network for aspiring professionals), and hold a Chartered Management Institute Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice.
At UCB, I play an active role in the International Co-creators project, designed to enhance the experience of international students at the university - an initiative close to my heart after studying here myself. My dual perspectives as a lecturer and graduate allow me to relate deeply with my students and help them to integrate, learn, and thrive.
What inspires me most is seeing students develop the confidence to translate their classroom learning into real-world success, think critically, and ultimately prepare for their careers. I take pride in supporting students to achieve their goals and helping them discover resilience, adaptability, and the professional skills needed to thrive. I’m proud to have been nominated for the 'Best Personal Tutor Award' in both 2024 and 2025.
One misconception I often address is the belief that business and enterprise studies are only suitable for those who are already confident or clear about their career path. In truth, every student is capable of adapting, growing, and achieving - even if they start university from a place of self-doubt. The university experience is truly transformative, and although it can be challenging at times, every step forward builds new capabilities and connections. I encourage my students to seek support, stay persistent, and trust in their ability to succeed. A powerful quote that I often share with students is: Mindset × Action + Time = Greatness.
In my free time, I love reading - my favourite books include The Richest Man in Babylon by George Samuel Clason, God Always Travels Incognito by Laurent Gounelle, and The Witcher by Andrzej Sapkowski.