Claire Smith from Dunhill, Co. Waterford had been working as a business operations analyst for ten years until she decided to start a new career journey in IT. Thanks to her own dedication and the support of course leaders, Claire completed her HDip in Business Systems Analysis (online) at South East Technological University (SETU) just three weeks after giving birth to her third child.
Changing careers
Before applying for SETU's online HDip in Business Systems Analysis, I had completed a Level 5 Certificate in Business Studies and a Diploma in Mutual Funds at the Fitzwilliam Institute. When I applied to SETU, I had been working in the operations side of the insurance industry for over ten years. While I enjoyed this side of the business, I found myself leaning more towards IT – that's where I wanted to work.
Content
SETU's HDip in Business Systems Analysis (online) covers a wide range of content such as requirements analysis, system design, data modelling, and software development methods. I also learned about project management, databases, and software engineering. What's more, there are modules on business process modelling, integrating enterprise apps, and ensuring quality. By studying this programme, I developed a solid base in business system analysis which set me up for success in various roles. It's a comprehensive programme that will hopefully boost my chances of gaining a career in IT!
Internship with Sunlife International
Shortly after completing my studies at SETU, I applied for an internship with Sun Life International. I was delighted to be offered a six month internship. This consisted of a three-month role as a Quality Engineer and the remaining duration working in product management. Right now, I am only a couple of weeks into the internship, but I am already putting my learnings at SETU into practice. In particular, these include the Agile approach to working and implementing how requirements and test cases are put into practice.
"By studying this programme, I developed a solid base in business system analysis which set me up for success in various roles. It's a comprehensive programme that will hopefully boost my chances of gaining a career in IT!"
Claire Smith HDip in Business Systems Analysis (online) Graduate
Proud moments
While studying at SETU I was in employment and had two young children and had another on the way. During this time I had two incredibly proud achievements. The first was completing the course at SETU and the second (and proudest) was having my third child – just three weeks before exams in my third semester.
The future
My hope for the future is to gain full-time employment from the current internship that I am on (fingers crossed!). I hope to complete a master’s at SETU in a related field next year. Studying in Waterford was such a positive experience as the lecturers were incredibly enthusiastic and helpful.
