“Everything I learned in the curriculum, I use in real life in my job.” University of Limerick alumni Abhijeet explains how his degree led him to his current role.
International student Abhijeet didn’t always have a specific career in sight. Now he’s working in Human Resources at Shannon Airport, he says it’s definitely the role for him! We chatted with him to find out more about the transition between the lecture theatre and the office.
Factfile
Name: Abhijeet Sinha
University: University of Limerick Alumni
Course studied: MA in Human Resource Management
Current job: Human Resources Generalist at Shannon Airport
University experience in three words: “Exceeded my expectations”
Role plays to real life…
Can you describe a day in your life at work?
Very busy! I work 9 to 5 in an office at Shannon Airport. General tasks you’ll find me doing involve designing training processes or measuring employee engagement. The great thing is that this is everything I learned in the curriculum at university, and now I get to use it in my everyday life. It really gives me confidence because I know I’ve come across similar situations before, be it in a roleplay, assignment or seminar.
So your degree really helped you towards your current role?
Definitely. The structure and content of the course are perfectly designed. I had previous work experience, so when I researched the modules I could tell the course was very much related to real life and working culture. We had a real variety of learning: case studies, presentations, assignments and group work. All of this kept me engaged and motivated to do well.
How did you find the transition between studying and working?
It’s a new experience, but I haven’t faced many challenges so far. As with every job, you face different tasks but there’s been nothing I can’t handle. My colleagues are really nice and helpful too. Whilst I was at university, our department and the careers service focussed on helping us to develop our interpersonal skills. This automatically brings confidence as I knew how to adapt my personality and behaviour to the workplace.
Follow in Abhijeet’s footsteps…
Can you offer any advice to undergraduates when it comes to finding work after university?
I’d say that if they really want to work in Ireland, they should register on career websites with the relevant consultancies. It’s good to upload your CV so that employers can see your skills and background. Get out and attend job fairs and keep following companies you’re interested in on LinkedIn. Finally, if you’re a UL student, visit the Career Clinic at the university for some advice.
How did you get to where you are now?
I did my undergraduate degree in IT and then got some experience working as a recruiter in the USA. Before I joined UL in 2017, I took a course with Toulouse Business School in European Business Culture and Management. I then began my MA in Human Resources because it was something I didn’t yet have experience in.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
My mind swings very rapidly, that’s why I’ve changed jobs a few times. Before entering the world of work, I was looking to be a pilot. Then I fell into IT development, then recruitment, until I became a HR generalist. I’m currently enjoying this job, so I think it’s the one for me!
Reflections…
How would you sum up your experience overall?
I’ve been in Ireland for almost 2 and a half years now, and each moment is wonderful. The quality of life is great and the people are friendly. At UL, I had fantastic classmates. I would like to give a special thanks to each and every one of the teaching staff for their support; they were cooperative, helpful and great. Everything exceeded my expectations – I wish I could do another year!
Keep up with Abhijeet on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/899478582/