Aliya Machat

BSocSc in Sociology

Aliya is an Influencer Executive at SocialChain. She graduated from Manchester with a BSocSc in Sociology in 2023. Here, she talks about what she does now and how she got there following her time at Manchester.

My current role and how I got there

I work as an Influencer Executive at a dynamic social media agency, where I am responsible for discovering, managing and collaborating with influencers to help elevate our clients’ brands.

This role allows me to combine creativity and strategy, and I’ve had the privilege of working with well-known brands like LinkedIn, Shark Ninja, and Haagen Dazs.

My day-to-day involves everything from influencer selection and campaign management to data analysis and brand strategy development, making every project unique and exciting.

I didn’t always know that I wanted to pursue a career in the social media or marketing space. Initially I had different career aspirations. However, my perspective shifted when I participated in the university’s career days, which opened my eyes to the world of marketing.

The events were a turning point for me, it sparked my interest in the digital marketing field and led me to explore opportunities that eventually aligned with my current career. Manchester’s diverse extracurricular activities and career resources helped me gain practical experience and discover what truly interested me.

My experience at Manchester

I was drawn to the University of Manchester because of its prestigious reputation and strong academic standing. The university has always been recognised for its rigorous programs and exceptional opportunities for students.

I felt that studying at such a renowned institution would provide me with not only a strong academic foundation but also the networking opportunities that would set me apart in my future career.

Although my Sociology degree didn’t directly align with influencer marketing or digital media, it played a significant role in shaping my career. The course sharpened my critical thinking, research and communication skills, which have been invaluable in my work.

Sociology also helped me develop a deep understanding of human behaviour and societal trends, which I draw upon daily when analysing influencer audiences and creating campaigns that resonate with different demographics. My course also encouraged collaboration and teamwork, which directly translates to how I manage influencer partnerships and coordinate with clients and colleagues.

The most surprising takeaway from my Sociology course was the power of human connections and the importance of networking. During my time at Manchester, I met an incredibly diverse group of people, classmates, lecturers and professionals from various fields. These relationships, both personal and professional, have been invaluable. 

I learned that opportunities often arise from the people you know and the networks you build, and it’s a lesson I carry with me every day. Beyond academics, the ability to understand and empathise with others has been crucial in building meaningful professional relationships and managing influencer partnerships.

My advice for future students

My advice would be to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. University isn’t just about what you learn in the classroom, it’s about discovering new interests, expanding your network, and growing as an individual. 

Attend career fairs, take part in internships, and engage with as many extracurricular activities as possible. UoM provides numerous resources to help students develop their careers, so make sure to take full advantage of them. 

Also, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. University is a time for exploration and self-discovery, and sometimes the best opportunities come from places you least expect.