My experience as a DCU/30% Club Scholar

The deadline for the 2018 DCU/30% Club scholarship is fast approaching. The closing date for applications is 24th May 2018. The successful candidate will receive a €10,000 scholarship for postgraduate study at DCU Business School. In this piece, Maria O’Kelly, the recipient of the 2016 scholarship, shares an insight into the application process and reflects on her two years as a DCU Master’s in Human Resource Strategies student.

I have worked in the area of Human Resources for over 13 years and I chose to further study as I am firm believer in continuous learning. During the spring of 2016, I had noticed a scholarship application for the 30% Club Ireland and DCU. I submitted all the requested qualifications and paperwork. I received a call to attend for an interview for the scholarship. I was delighted with the opportunity to attend for interview and to discuss my career to date and rationale for the scholarship.

The interview process involved a number of people including both 30% Club representative and DCU representatives. I was clear in my mind what course I wished to do and why I was looking to further my studies and my career. I was elated to be informed a few days later that I was for the recipient for 2016 scholarship.

The undertaking of such a course is a substantial decision when you are working full time but equally manageable if you have supports in place which I have with a very supportive family. As I come to the end of my two years I have made some wonderful friends along the way and shared some marvellous experiences. DCU run taster evenings to showcase postgraduate courses and to highlight what is involved they are extremely valuable and worth attending for a good overview.

I am very grateful to both DCU and to 30% Club Ireland for such a wonderful opportunity. The work that the 30% Club Ireland is vital as it aims to develop a diverse pool of talent for all businesses. Business Leadership is key to the mission of the 30% Club, taking the issue beyond diversity into talent management.

For more information on our scholarships, click below.

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