Reflection on my bachelor’s degree: Marketing Management – Digital Business Concepts

Back in December 2015, I decided to write my very first blog post on my website, florismeulensteen.nl. My motivation? A deep reflection on my study choice and a desire to share my thoughts with a broader audience. I spent hours perfecting the text, relying on my brother’s linguistic skills to refine it, as advanced digital tools for writing improvement were still in their infancy. It was my first attempt to find my voice in the online world. Now, almost a decade later and with 2025 approaching, it feels like the right time to revisit that process and reflect on one of the most defining chapters of my life: my bachelor’s degree in Marketing Management – Digital Business Concepts.

Studying at Fontys University of Applied Sciences in Tilburg was a journey full of challenges and opportunities, offering a perfect blend of creativity, business insight, and digital innovation. I not only learned the ins and outs of online marketing, entrepreneurship, and developing digital strategies, but also discovered the importance of social responsibility when building meaningful businesses. The program provided a future-focused approach that aligned perfectly with my interests and ambitions.

What made this program stand out was not just the curriculum but the practice-oriented approach. During my studies, I had the chance to work on real-world projects for renowned agencies like Freshheads and Dept / TamTam. These experiences went beyond typical coursework, offering me a glimpse into the real world of digital business, where I gained invaluable lessons and began building a professional network. This foundation gave me the confidence to continue my career in the dynamic digital sector.

One of the most important lessons I learned was that the success of any education also depends on the effort you put into it. It’s up to the student to seize opportunities and make the most out of their time. For me, that meant actively engaging in projects and further developing my passion for startups and innovation. As an alumnus, I even had the opportunity to give guest lectures on startups and entrepreneurship—an experience that not only brought me great fulfillment but also underscored how much I had grown during my time at Fontys.

The personal guidance and support from my professors were crucial, especially during challenging periods. Despite my struggles with insecurities and mental health, they stood by me, always ready to listen and offer encouragement. Their unwavering belief in my potential gave me the strength to persevere, even when times were tough. The result? I completed my thesis and final assessment within the Intrapreneurship track, earning a stellar grade of 8.6. That achievement felt like the crowning moment of my studies.

After graduating in 2021, I transitioned seamlessly into the working world. The knowledge and skills I gained at Fontys proved indispensable in my roles at companies like DSG, where I developed new business models as a Venture Builder, and Gritd, where I promoted training programs to support startup growth. Later, I worked at Bundl, developing innovative business models as a Growth Marketer for large organizations. Today, I’m a Digital Advertising Specialist at DotControl and run my own business, Millstone, helping startups scale strategically.

My time at Fontys not only shaped me professionally but also enriched me personally. The informal atmosphere, collaborative environment, and freedom to carve my own path have left a lasting impact. I can genuinely say that this program prepared me for a life of innovation, growth, and meaningful contributions to the digital economy.

For anyone considering a degree in Marketing Management – Digital Business Concepts, it’s a program that can transform your future. But remember, it’s up to you to make the most of it. Embrace the challenges, work hard, and seize every opportunity. This is your journey, and the more you invest in it, the more rewarding it will be.

Looking back, I’m deeply grateful for everything this program has brought me. It laid the groundwork for a career I’m proud of and a life where I continue to learn and grow.

If you’re curious about specific projects I worked on during my studies or want to know more about my experiences during that time, feel free to explore the ‘Study‘ and ‘Work‘ sections on my website. There, I share detailed accounts of my journey, the challenges I faced, and the valuable lessons I learned along the way.

Want to know what Fontys University of Applied Sciences wrote about me in 2020? Check out my story on their official blog. Click here to dive into my journey and perspectives from that time!