Jennie Condron
There were many highlights during my time at Maynooth University. While studying at Maynooth I made some amazing friends, who I would still consider to be some of my closet friends to this day. The university also provided me with a perfect environment for completing my Master’s dissertation. To be able to have access to such knowledgeable and helpful staff, along with the freedom to choose a topic that is important to you, and add something new to the field, is a great experience, and one that you carry with you into the future.
Masters scholarship in recognition of academic achievement at undergraduate level.
In my opinion, Maynooth University is unique, in that it has more of a community focus rather than a competitive focus in contrast to other universities. Instead of being in competition with your peers, the atmosphere at Maynooth University encourages students to learn from each other and support each other, so that everyone can prosper to the best of their own abilities.
One important skill that is core to many subjects at Maynooth University is the ability to conduct research effectively, and identify the best sources. This skill has helped me greatly in my current role as an analyst, by allowing me to effectively source data for reports.
During my Master’s degree, group work and engagement was greatly encouraged. I found this experience hugely beneficial as it has enhanced my teamwork and people skills, which play an important role in how I communicate with stakeholders in my professional life.
Make sure you study what makes you happy. Although a particular course may seem niche on the surface, it will allow you to develop universal skills such as critical analysis, people skills, and research skills, which can be applied to a variety of jobs. If you enjoy the course content, you will find it easier to develop these skills in tandem. At first, I was doubtful about studying an arts degree, as it sometimes receives a reputation as being not as useful as a technical degree. However, my interest in justice, and in particular climate change, led to me develop an interest in sustainable energy. Today, this has served me well as I am now working in the energy sector. Don't doubt yourself! The wide variety of interesting courses available at Maynooth University are not only highly enjoyable, but will also open you up to many career prospects in more ways than you can imagine!
After I completed my Master’s degree at Maynooth, I got a six month internship in Slovenia, working at the European Union Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators. This helped me to develop my interest in the energy industry and gain some valuable experience working within an international team. As of present, I am working as a graduate analyst with Ireland's national energy regulator, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities.
One career highlight for me so far was organising, chairing, and presenting at my company's quarterly stakeholder meeting.
My current role involves producing reports on Ireland's energy statistics and working with Irish energy suppliers. I conduct analysis of trends, and work to ensure that energy suppliers in Ireland are continually serving their customers best interests.
This is an industry that is constantly changing with the introduction of new sustainable energy systems, combined with new EU regulations. One of the most interesting and challenging aspects of working my role is finding different ways to continually improve and adapt when needs be.
I found my current job through an online vacancy notice.
Don't give up. At present, and particularly during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it can be disheartening not getting call backs for jobs you may have applied for. It is important to keep going and keep applying and you will end up in the industry that you want to be in eventually. It also helps to have an updated LinkedIn profile and actively network with others.
Once you have found a job, it is important to be open to new challenges and be willing to adapt and leave your comfort zone. Doing this will benefit you in the long run and will allow you to grow from these experiences. Also, take any relevant opportunity you can to avail of further training and education, if it is offered by your job.