Alumni contribution by Teresa Fernandes, BA in Creative Industries graduate
August 3, 2026, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE): If someone had told me on my first day at Canadian University Dubai that a few years later, I'd be working at a reputable creative agency, I probably wouldn't have believed them. Looking back, choosing the Creative Industries program was one of the most rewarding decisions I've ever made.
When I joined CUD in 2021, I had a passion for creativity but wasn't sure where it could take me. From the moment I stepped into my first class, I found myself surrounded by inspiring professors who challenged us to think differently and classmates who quickly became lifelong friends. What started as a university experience soon became a community that shaped both my personal and professional growth.
The Bachelor of Arts in Creative Industries at CUD, adapted from the prestigious Creative Industries program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), is unlike a traditional creative degree. Instead of focusing on just one discipline, it introduces you to the many worlds that fuel today's creative economy, from branding, design, media, communications, journalism, and marketing to entrepreneurship and business strategy. It helped me understand that great ideas don't just need creativity. They need purpose, strategy, and the ability to create real impact.
One of the biggest highlights was hands-on learning. We didn’t just study theories; we lived with them. From developing branding campaigns and producing creative content to collaborating on real-world projects and presenting ideas like industry professionals, every assignment prepared us for the workplace. These experiences helped me build a portfolio, gain confidence, and develop the teamwork and problem-solving skills that I now use every day in my career.
Beyond the classroom, CUD offers countless opportunities to grow. Through workshops, industry talks, networking events, and student activities, I connected with professionals, alumni, and creatives who shared valuable insights into the industry. These experiences gave me a clearer vision of my future and showed me the endless possibilities within the creative field.
As Dubai continues to grow as a global hub for media, innovation, design, and entrepreneurship, there has never been a better time to study Creative Industries. The program doesn't just prepare you for one career. It equips you with the versatility to explore many. Whether you dream of joining a creative agency, launching your own brand, working in media, or leading innovative projects, you'll graduate with the knowledge and confidence to make it happen.
To anyone thinking about joining the School of Creative Industries, my advice is simple. Be curious, get involved, and make the most of every opportunity. The friendships you build, the projects you create, and the experiences you gain will stay with you long after graduation.
For me, CUD wasn't just where I earned my degree. It was where I discovered my potential. It gave me the confidence to turn my creativity into a career, and I'm proud to say that my journey started here.
Who knows? Your story could be the next to inspire future creatives.