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Pauline Howlin is a Wexford native and is a graduate of the Master of Business (Human Resource Management Stream) and took upon the course part-time.
About me:
During my term, I was delighted to be asked by the other students to be class rep for the HR stream. It was an honour, I got lots of experience by attending meetings with lecturers on feedback from students on the content and delivery of course. In addition, it enabled me to get to know some of the lecturers really well as we had regular meetings in relation to our international trip to the European Parliament in Brussels
What attracted you to study at South East Technological University?
The fact that the course was being offered part time, suited my busy work and family schedule. The international trip, was a great selling point, whereby I thought I could really learn. I studied European law before, so I was really interested to visit the parliament itself.
I live about 60 kilometres away, but with all the new roads etc. it meant I could travel to SETU easily. I had studied in SETU over 20 years ago. Then went on to do courses and a law degree in other colleges and universities and I always thought that SETU stood out to be one of the best.
What was your motivation for choosing this course?
People, law and entrepreneurship have always been passions of mine, therefore an MBS with the HR stream running through it, seemed to take all three passions and combine them in one course. I have been self-employed for many years and also worked in private SME's and I really wanted to get the theory, to back up 20 years of managerial insight. I firmly believe I took away something every week and found I was implementing that in the workplace.
What have you done in life prior to studying here?
Started out the same as most sixteen-year-olds, working in shops and in my case on building sites as well, before going to London for eight years where I worked and then managed an Estate Agents and studied a law degree at night. I then worked as an account manager for a large corporate property company. I moved back to Ireland in 2001 and worked for an Auctioneers. Then I started my own business which I had for 15 years. After the recession, I went into management in the hospitality industry, and then into a HR management role within the same industry.
What words of advice do you have for new students?
Make sure you are going to study your passion, it certainly will make the course more interesting. Try and give it your best shot. The rewards are immense. You will need to be reflective throughout the duration the course and participate.
It does take time out of your week, you may even find yourself questioning it at times. However, when you get to the end it is so rewarding. It is something you will always have, that's yours and it can’t be taken away.
What have been the highlights of your college experience?
When asked about my highlights they are probably not as exciting as other people. But we all go on this journey for different reasons. Reflecting on the highlights, I now would say, coming away with so much knowledge that I can put to work for me straight away. Whether I stay in my current role as a HR manager or go self-employed.
As a mature student getting away to the college campus for a day and leaving the workload behind was a lovely feeling. Getting to know some of the lecturers, understanding how and why they followed their journey. Mastering the skills of academic writing and presenting.
How did trips abroad and guest lecturers add to your college experience?
Great experience, still refer back to it today. Enjoyed it much more than I thought I would originally.
How did you manage your work/life/study balance?
It was extremely hard, busy work life and two children (2 and 6 when I started). There were times when I questioned it, I also have a partner who is self-employed and works seven days, so it was hard on the family as a whole. Thankfully, I kept with it. Some of the lecturers were very good at keeping the motivation there, when it was needed. It meant early mornings and late nights at times, but I enjoyed every minute of it.
How has this course helped your career development?
It certainly has given me more credibility in the workplace. I have a tool kit now of information I can go to, when I need to. Getting the CIPD membership was a great bonus. I know that if I need to move jobs that it has given me many more options.
Alternatively, it has given me so much of that theory I was looking for so if I decide to go self-employed again, I have a detailed information to assist me.