Denise VIana - NCI Graduate Story

Denise is a Class of 2023 graduate from the CIPD accredited MA Human Resource Management programme. Denise worked in HR in Brazil before studying the Masters in HR in NCI and is now working within HR in the hotel industry.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background:

I'm Denise, I'm originally from Brazil, and I graduated with a Master’s in Human Resource Management in November 2023. I’m currently working in an HR role for an Irish hotel group.

How did you hear about your role ?

I saw the position advertised on Jobs.ie.

What did the recruitment process involve and how did you prepare for it ?

The recruiter gave me a call for a screening interview, which was a lovely surprise, I wasn’t expecting it at all. He mainly asked why I applied and what I knew about the company. After that, he scheduled a face-to-face interview with the hiring manager. A few days later, I got the offer. I was over the moon!

What was your most memorable experience from your time at NCI ? 

I really enjoyed the opportunities to connect with different companies through roundtable events. It was so valuable to hear about their work routines, interview tips and experiences. The atmosphere was always friendly and welcoming, and I felt it gave me access to insights and experiences I wouldn’t have had on my own.

What do you enjoy most about your current role ?

I love having the chance to work with such supportive colleagues who value my ideas and help me grow. I also really enjoy being in an environment where I can be creative, especially when it comes to engagement initiatives and internal communication.

What is a typical day like in your current role ?

I work in a hotel, so things are especially busy, particularly during the summer. Every day is different, but I mainly deal with employee and manager queries on a wide range of topics, from basic payroll questions to more complex behavioural matters.

Can you describe the visa process you underwent ?

I’m currently on a Stamp 1G visa and actively looking for a sponsored role.

What’s your most memorable experience at NCI?

Making friends, without a doubt. It’s important to have that one dependable friend during your student life—someone who’s got your back. I also really enjoyed Mr. Joe’s classes—each lecture was not just informative but genuinely engaging and insightful.

What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey ?

As an international professional who needs visa sponsorship, the process can be quite challenging. It requires a lot of patience and faith that things will eventually work out. At the same time, you have to keep doing your best and actively looking for new opportunities that could lead to that long-dreamed sponsored role.

Top 3 tips for students and graduates entering the Irish job market:

• Be persistent. The job market is a bit tight right now, so you need to keep applying and try to stay motivated.
• Don’t say no to yourself. Apply for everything that aligns with your skills and let the employer decide.
• Stay hopeful. All it takes is one opportunity to showcase your abilities and attitude. Even if it’s taking time, keep trying. The right role will come when you least expect it.