Joaquín Bueno-Amaro
Joaquín is one of our international alumni, currently employed as a Learning and Development Specialist at Ubisoft CRC. Joaquín graduated in 2022 with a PhD in Sociolinguistics.
About Joaquín's career
Describe your current occupation:
As part of the Learning and Development team, I am responsible for the training needs of my company, Ubisoft CRC, a support hub for players of Ubisoft videogames. My duties include researching business training needs and methodologies and designing and delivering training courses locally and worldwide.
Studying Linguistics enhanced my understanding of language and communication. In Sociolinguistics in particular, I developed invaluable skills for data analysis, visualisation, and interpretation.
How did you get into this field after studying Linguistics at Newcastle?
During the last stages of my PhD, I looked beyond academia and landed a job at Ubisoft CRC as a Player Support Agent. The role was not directly connected to my studies, but I have a strong personal interest in the videogame industry. After a year, I applied to become a Learning and Development Specialist, which is closer to the skillset I had developed throughout my academic career.
Studying Linguistics at Newcastle University
How has studying Linguistics at Newcastle helped you in your career?
Studying Linguistics enhanced my understanding of language and communication. In Sociolinguistics in particular, I developed invaluable skills for data analysis, visualisation, and interpretation. I also gained vast experience teaching adults as a seminar tutor. More generally, the PhD journey boosted my sense of discipline, skills for critical analysis, and above all, confidence. This set of transferrable skills has been crucial in securing my current role, where I continue to develop them.
What advice would you give to a student interested in studying Linguistics?
If you’re curious to know why language works the way it does, how language shapes and is shaped by society, and how languages have developed through history, this is definitely your degree. Never underestimate the value a language-related degree can bring to your future career. Also, learn foreign languages! You’ll have a head start once you understand the ins and outs of a language, and you’ll discover languages across the world are not that different after all!
What was the best thing about studying Linguistics at Newcastle?
The focus on critical independent thinking and research. The staff at the School of English place particular emphasis on these aspects, supporting everyone to pursue their curiosity and providing the tools and skills to do so. I certainly feel I grew a lot during my degree and the people around me helped me reach my full potential.
