Shanmugasundar Ramesh is originally from India, where he completed his undergraduate degree in Computer Science Engineering before moving to Ireland to pursue an MSc in Cyber Security at the National College of Ireland. He is now working as a Cloud Support Engineer at Amazon Web Services in Dublin.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
I am Shanmugasundar Ramesh from Chennai, India. I completed my undergraduate degree in Computer Science Engineering in my home country and earned my Cybersecurity qualification in 2024 from the National College of Ireland in Dublin. I currently work as a Cloud Support Engineer at Amazon Web Services in Dublin, Ireland
What made you choose Ireland as a place you wanted to work?
I chose Ireland because it offers a unique academic and social environment that blends traditional respect for educators with relaxed, equal dynamics. Major companies establish their bases here, creating positive job opportunities for graduates. Ireland stands as one of the most English-speaking countries in Europe, home to wonderful people with rich culture and strong values.
What was your most memorable experience from your time at NCI?
My most memorable moment at NCI occurred on day one when I stepped into my first classes. I felt nervous because I was in a new country surrounded by unfamiliar faces, but the college had already prepared comprehensive support systems to help me. They organized numerous events and trips that allowed me to connect easily with different people, creating beautiful memories that I still cherish today. Another unforgettable moment at NCI was graduation day when I received my MSc in Cyber Security degree. This achievement became possible through exceptional support from my mentor professors, who guided me every step of the way and helped me reach this significant milestone in my academic journey.
How did you hear about your role? (Was it a jobsite, a contact, a recruitment agency, some you met at a careers event etc?)
I used LinkedIn to find my role and connected with senior professionals who had graduated before me. I received guidance from the career team at NCI on how to approach the job market and design an ATS-friendly CV (Applicant Tracking System). This strategic approach helped me secure my job role.
What did the recruitment and selection process involve and how did you prepare for it?
The process was tedious and complex, requiring more than a simple explanation. Through patience, perseverance, and resilience, I successfully achieved my goal. This accomplishment demanded consistent practice and unwavering determination throughout the challenging journey.
What is a typical day like in your current role?
Each morning brings new opportunities to apply sharp analytical skills and develop effective solutions that address my clients' specific challenges. This daily renewal requires critical thinking to assess complex problems from multiple angles, identify root causes, and craft targeted strategies that deliver measurable results for each unique business situation.As in my company motto, every day is considered to be day 1.
What do you like most about working in your current role or profession?
As a solution provider, I solve critical client issues by enhancing my knowledge and developing essential research skills.
What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?
Adapting to a completely new environment as a student while balancing study time and work hours to support my finances presented a tremendous challenge that I consider significant.
What are your Top 3 tips for current students and graduates who are looking to enter the job market in Ireland?
Top 3 Tips I would say is Resilience ,Focus on the goal and trust in self