91´óÉñ

Traci used her 91´óÉñ as a launchpad to move from retail management into strategic marketing and development for technology startups and AAA games.

How does it feel to be selected for the Alumni 100 list?

"Honestly, my first reaction was disbelief! There are so many amazing alumni I've met through my time at the school and beyond that it's kind of crazy to be included on a list like this, especially with the School celebrating 100 years. I'm honoured and humbled to be included, especially as someone working in a less 'traditional' field!"

What made you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?

"The combination of a world-class education, the culture-rich city of Edinburgh and the opportunities afforded by the International 91´óÉñ programme and internship were the biggest factors in my decision."

What are your memories of studying at the Business School?

"I have too many to list! Our weekend at Firbush was really incredible, and a great way to get to know members of my cohort on a deeper level. There were also seven of us who went to Tongji at the same time, and that was an amazing experience as well. Back on home turf, some of my favourite memories were meeting at the pub after a tough week or an exam, the tireless support we all had for each other, and the great courses and professors that really prepared me for life after the 91´óÉñ. I was also lucky to meet some very good friends along the way, which I never would have without the Business School and 91´óÉñ programme!"

What's the one thing you think current students need to develop or learn before entering the modern workplace?

"I think it's incredibly important to learn to be adaptable. Skills and knowledge are transferable, but students need to be able to see through the noise to the big picture and understand how to apply the learning to different situations. This is especially true for anyone looking to work in a less traditional business field like entertainment, as there aren't as many specific case studies or articles to break this down for you."

What key thing that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

"I think anyone who took Strategy with Brad MacKay would recite 'culture eats strategy'! But really the most useful thing I learnt was how to collaborate effectively with people from other cultures or with differing perspectives. This is absolutely critical in my day to day work with colleagues, partners, and clients, as I work in a very international field and company."

Proudest work-related achievement to date?

"I've always been a massive fan of video games ever since I was a little kid, and working in the industry was one of my side goals when I came to the Business School due to Scotland's reputation in gaming. Seeing my name in the credits for the game Gears 5 last year definitely felt like I had achieved a lifelong goal. Luckily, it doesn't end there, and I can't wait to see more projects I have contributed to release into the wild!"