Sushma is a Class of 2024 MSc Data Analytics graduate. She completed a Bachelor’s of Engineering before relocating to Ireland. With data engineering experience in India, she secured a Data Engineer role in Fidelity Investments in Dublin.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
My name is Sushma Hebbalakar, and I am originally from India. I have nearly five years of experience as a Data Engineer, including 3.8 years in India and over a year working in Ireland with Fidelity Investments. I completed my Master's in Data Analytics at National College of Ireland (NCI) as part of the September 2023–2024 intake. My passion lies in working with data, building data solutions, and creating insights that drive business decisions.
What made you choose Ireland as a place you wanted to work?
Ireland stood out to me because of its excellent work culture and strong opportunities in the technology sector. I have found people here to be welcoming, supportive, and always willing to help. The collaborative work environment and positive work-life balance make Ireland a great place to build a career.
What was your most memorable experience from your time at NCI?
Two experiences stand out for me. The first was attending the CV Clinic, where professionals reviewed our CVs and provided detailed feedback. This played a key role in helping me begin my job search journey with confidence.
The second was my final-year project presentation. Comparing my confidence level from my first-semester presentation to my final presentation showed me how much I had grown. Receiving positive feedback from lecturers and classmates was a proud and rewarding moment.
How did you hear about your role?
I came across the job opening through LinkedIn. It was one of the platforms I actively used during my job search, and it helped me connect with opportunities that matched my skills and experience.
What did the recruitment and selection process involve, and how did you prepare for it?
My journey involved many rejections before I secured my current role. Initially, I interviewed for a different position within the same company. The process included an online interview followed by an in-person interview. After waiting for about a month during the Christmas and New Year period, I unfortunately received a rejection.
However, I continued applying and later secured a referral for another role within the same company. This time, I completed an online interview and was successfully selected.
Throughout the process, I learned from every interview and continuously improved my preparation. I practised my self-introduction in front of a mirror and with friends to build confidence and improve my communication skills. One lesson I learned was to think of myself as a product that employers are considering among many options. It is important to clearly demonstrate your value and show what makes you stand out.
I always made sure to thoroughly review the job description, prepare for all the required skills and technologies, and support my answers with real-life examples and scenarios from my experience.
Can you describe the visa process you underwent?
After graduating, I was on a Stamp 1G visa. Once I secured my role, my employer sponsored my work permit, and I am currently working in Ireland on a Stamp 1 visa.
What is a typical day like in your current role?
Every day is different and presents new challenges and learning opportunities. My role is both busy and engaging, requiring collaboration with different teams while working on data solutions that support business needs. There is always something new to learn, which keeps the work exciting.
What do you like most about working in your current role or profession?
I enjoy working with data and ensuring that high-quality, reliable data is available for end users and data scientists. I am particularly interested in data visualisation and dashboard development because I enjoy turning complex data into meaningful insights.
Currently, my role involves working with operational data and building live dashboards. Working with enterprise-level data has given me valuable experience and a deeper understanding of how data supports decision-making in large organisations
What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?
My final-semester project was the most challenging part of my journey. Identifying the right project idea, implementing it successfully, and balancing the workload alongside a part-time job required strong time management and dedication. Despite the challenges, it was a valuable learning experience that helped me grow both academically and professionally.
What are your Top 3 tips for current students and graduates who are looking to enter the job market in Ireland?
1. Start applying and stop overthinking. The earlier you begin, the more opportunities you create for yourself.
2. Believe in yourself and focus on continuous improvement. Every interview and every rejection is a learning opportunity.
3. Take chances when opportunities arise. Don't hesitate to apply for roles or attend networking events—you never know where they might lead.