How Asia Pacific University Helped Shape Sharmila’s Advertising Journey

Some paths in life are driven by a clear calling, a passion that shapes every choice, every dream and every goal. For Sharmila Ravee, this calling came in the form of brands, the art of creative thinking and the power of strategic planning. Her journey through the world of advertising didn’t start with a random decision but with a deep fascination for how brands connect with people.

“These passions of mine led me to pursue my degree in Advertising & Brand Management at Asia Pacific University (APU),” she says. What stood out to her about APU, compared to other universities, was its well-structured programme that balanced theory with practical application.

For Sharmila, it wasn’t just about earning a degree. It was about preparing herself to make an impact in the industry — armed with the knowledge and skills APU promised to deliver. But what’s life like inside the halls of APU for an aspiring brand strategist like her? Let’s dive into Sharmila’s university experience and discover how her time at APU helped shape her journey.

A Vibrant Learning Experience at APU

Stepping into APU was more than just the beginning of Sharmila's academic journey — it was a life-changing experience. Reflecting on her time there, she credits the vibrant, multicultural environment for shaping much of her growth. “I was fortunate to form great friendships with peers from around the globe.” She expressed how those connections not only enriched her understanding of different cultures but also became a source of support for her studies.

It wasn’t just her classmates who made APU special. The university’s commitment to celebrating diversity was evident through the numerous international events and festivities hosted on campus. These celebrations offered Sharmila a chance to appreciate global traditions, adding a cultural richness to her university life that went far beyond textbooks and lectures.

But Sharmila’s journey wasn’t only about social experiences. The academic environment at APU was equally impactful. “The collaborative learning environment, combined with supportive lecturers who shared valuable industry insights, helped me with my education a lot.” She particularly appreciated how accessible her lecturers were, noting that they were always just a message away, regardless of the time.

During her internship at IPG Mediabrands, Sharmila gained valuable insights into working with major brands and enhanced her understanding of social media strategies.

The modern facilities at APU, including innovative classrooms and creative labs, further contributed to her positive experience. “The programme was well-rounded, mixing theory with practical skills and really preparing me for my career.” Every aspect of her time at APU seemed designed to push her forward, equipping her with the tools she needed to succeed in the fast-paced world of advertising and branding.

When asked about her favourite lecturers, it was evident that there was no shortage of educators who left a lasting impression on her. Among them was Dr Stephen, whose initial presence in her life was somewhat intimidating. “His rigorous marking system and unique teaching style, akin to a Master’s level, set him apart,” Sharmila says. However, now that she’s working in the industry, she often finds herself reflecting on his wisdom, especially his mantra: ‘You don’t plan to fail; you fail to plan.’ The tough love in Dr Stephen’s classes turned out to be invaluable preparation for the professional world.

But Dr Stephen wasn’t the only one who shaped Sharmila’s journey. Lecturers like Mr Andrew, Mr Harsha, Ms Debbie and Ms Christine also made her academic experience truly special. Sharmila recalls their deep industry knowledge and the way they seamlessly integrated practical insights into their teaching. “Their classes were not only comprehensive but also highly engaging.”

Beyond the Classroom: Gaining Real-World Experience

While academics were a significant part of Sharmila’s journey, life outside the classroom was just as crucial in shaping her into the professional she is today. 

“I was the Project Lead for the Ria Flower Market event for Pudu Ria Florist,” she says, describing how she managed client meetings, team coordination and campaign ideas. Her role involved overseeing the entire process — from brainstorming creative activities to ensuring seamless execution on the day of the event. The experience of being in charge of a real-world project sharpened her leadership and organisational skills, boosting her confidence in managing complex tasks. 

Leading the Ria Flower Market event allowed Sharmila to put her project management skills into action, from coordinating tasks to managing client expectations.

Sharmila’s ability to handle responsibility and think strategically also extended to her internship at IPG Mediabrands, a globally recognised advertising agency. As part of the Social Media team, she was tasked with creative roles like idea generation, competitor reviews and research, working alongside major brands like Universal Music Malaysia, L'Oréal, Maybelline and Enfagrow. For Sharmila, this was not only her first experience at a large company but also a chance to step out of her comfort zone as an introvert. 

When asked about the skills she gained during her time at APU, Sharmila pointed to a set of qualities that have been instrumental in her career journey. “Both my university and internship experiences equipped me with strong project management and creative skills.”

These skills have become the backbone of her current role in project management. Although Sharmila had always enjoyed organising tasks and making to-do lists, she admits that time management was once a challenge as she struggled with deadlines and even submitted assignments late a few times. But over time, she mastered the art of planning and managing her time effectively — a game-changer that helped her solve problems before they arose.

Her experiences at APU and during her internship didn’t just improve her technical skills; they also helped her thrive in high-pressure environments. The challenges she faced fostered both personal and professional growth, giving her the confidence to tackle future challenges head-on. “I am grateful for the lessons learned and the skills acquired along the way,” she says, reflecting on how these lessons have prepared her for the demanding world of advertising and branding.

Connections at APU added a special touch to Sharmila's university experience.

Advice for Aspiring Students: Making the Most of APU

As an APU alumna, Sharmila has a few important tips for students hoping to make the most of their university experience. “Engage in classes — don’t be shy! Participate actively and ask questions.” 

Beyond the classroom, she encourages students to get involved in extracurriculars. “Join clubs, societies or volunteer. It helps you build soft skills, network, and take a break from academic stress.” These experiences not only enrich personal growth but also enhance the student's resume.

Networking is another essential tool. Sharmila advises students to foster strong relationships with lecturers and peers, as these connections can open doors to future career opportunities. She also recommends making full use of APU’s Career Centre for job placement help, resume workshops and mock interviews.

Finally, Sharmila emphasises the importance of time management and goal-setting. And while it’s important to stay focused, she also reminds students to carve out time to unwind and recharge.

A Journey of Growth and Gratitude

Looking back, Sharmila feels fortunate to have worked with international companies. Her career began at Furniture Choice, a UK-based e-commerce company, where her ex-manager, Kimm, became a great mentor. Now, she’s thriving as a Product Development Associate at Rapid Hardware Group.

“I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way, especially my mom and Mr Ganesh,” she says, reflecting on how each step has prepared her for the future ahead.