James Gabriel M. De Castro
Master of Science in Management, 2015
AFTER COLLEGE
I first worked as an enterprise marketer at Microsoft Philippines, where I managed commercial-wide activities to showcase Microsoft Technologies, particularly Office 365, Windows 10, and Microsoft Azure. When I took on the job, I was expected to hit the ground running: learn the different technologies and immerse myself in them without prior technical know-how. I spent my days learning from Microsoft subject matter experts, and many nights gaining a deeper understanding of the products through online courses. The main challenge involved presenting the technical aspects of Microsoft’s products at conferences, events, and round-table discussions in a simpler and more understandable manner.
After that, I worked as a Windows product marketing manager, leading marketing efforts to increase awareness of Microsoft’s most updated operating system, Windows 10. From previously pitching to large audiences, I moved on to working with business decision-makers firsthand. I thrived in working closely with influential individuals, listening to their pain points, and helping them solve real-life business problems.
AT PRESENT
I am now a Modern Workplace product marketing manager, spearheading adoption strategies that enable a true modern workplace for customers. Through trainings and enablement sessions, I excite customers into adopting technology that engender their organizations’ successes by ensuring that their employees’ daily work routine is more collaborative and productive.
ON UA&P
My parents encouraged me to pursue my studies in UA&P because of its prestige in producing outstanding holistic leaders in society. Through the liberal arts curriculum, students are exposed to humanities subjects that allow them to learn a little about everything. I love the humanities subjects (especially literature and history) because they gave me the opportunity to see the world in a different light. Through my experiences, I was taught to go beyond just getting the job done by doing things with purpose.
It was also in UA&P where I discovered my love for a new Olympic sport, handball. What once was just a PE class to me has now become my passion, such that I became a member of the Philippine National Handball Team.
To the greatest University one could have, thank you for all the learning opportunities you have provided me with. I am immensely proud to be called an alumnus. Do continue blazing new trails, walking the paths where no one dares, and breeding exceptional Dragons for the country and for the world. I will continue to pray for the success of UA&P. #
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