Ciara Compton

Master of Science in Strategic People Management

Sligo

Can you share your career path to date?

I graduated from UL with a BA in European Studies (Insurance & German). After working in Insurance for a couple of years, I moved into a HR Administrator role with the company I was working for. When I later relocated, I progressed to a HR Manager role and subsequently worked in several sectors, including manufacturing, telecommunications, education and aviation services. 

What does your current role involve?

My current role is HR Manager. It’s a generalist role so I’m responsible for development and delivery of a full range of people practices and processes in the company. 

What motivated you to start studying? 

The past few years have brought significant change in the world of work. I wanted to update my knowledge and understanding of all the pertinent issues and to widen my own perspective. 

Why did you choose this course from ATU?

ATU Sligo has a great reputation, and their lecturers are professional and conscientious. The course is accredited by the CIPD so this gives it further standing. I was also drawn to the method of delivery as it allows for flexibility. 

How did you find the process of studying online? What elements did you find helpful? Were there elements you found challenging? 

I found it great. The systems are easy to use. The lectures are live and recorded and materials are online so it’s very accessible. It has made the return to education so much easier. 

How did you balance work and study?

My course is two evenings per week so with that and allocated time some evenings and at weekends it’s very manageable. 

In terms of your employer, were they supportive of your decision to study? Were there elements of the course that were particularly relevant to your current employer? 

My employer is very supportive. The course is very relevant to my role. 

What advice would you have for anyone considering studying online?

If you have real interest, then I’d recommend it as you’ll make time, and the subject matter will come easy to you. 

In what way has studying online with ATU benefitted your career?

The course is giving me a knowledge of current issues impacting HR today and is enabling me to think more strategically. 

Did this course provide any unexpected benefits to your career?

I didn’t expect the learning impact to be so immediate. The course has helped me see how my role can benefit the organisation in a more strategic way. 

Did you find that the elements you were studying had practical relevance in your day-to-day role? 

It’s all relevant.