Name: Keira Hall
University: Northumbria University
Degree Title: Tech Industry Gold accredited degree – Bsc (Hons) Information Technology Management for Business
Classification: First-class (Honours)
Title of Dissertation: The implementation of a knowledge management system for a technology department and its subsidiaries
What has been the best experience of your degree?
I am going to say my best experience is going to be my graduation, I am so looking forward to having my family around me to celebrate. I never thought I would achieve a first-class honours degree. I am so proud of myself and I am so thankful for all of the support my mum has given me along the way, without her none of this would have been possible.
What has been the most challenging experience of your degree?
The most challenging experience was finding a placement in my second year as the industry is so vast. It can be hard to know where to start but I began my search early. The process for applying is quite complex but perseverance is key. I managed to secure my placement and I have had a fantastic experience which has given me the foundations for any future role.
What would you say now to yourself before you enrolled on your degree?
I did notice that there were no other women on the course. Personally, I found that quite daunting however I am keen to be an advocate and support the university to recruit more women on to the degree and subsequently into the sector. Currently there just 17% of women working in tech related roles in the UK. (Did you know that 31% of Tech Industry Gold students are female that’s more than double the proportion for computer science overall (14%))?
What would you say to anyone considering a Tech Industry Gold accredited degree?
If you are interested in technology and business this is definitely the degree for you. The Tech Industry Gold accredited degree has the blend of both IT and business, essentially a hybrid model of the computer science and business management degrees. With this degree you do not need a technical background, as the course offers a solid foundation to all first years in this subject area.
What are you planning to do this summer?
I have my graduation in just under a week, and I am starting my full-time role at Waterstons the following day. There are lots of exciting projects which I will be involved in. I already know about some of those projects as I have been working for the company on a part-time basis whilst completing my final year studies.
What are your career plans?
I have been very fortunate to secure a full-time Technology Consultant role with a leading technology firm, Waterstons. The company has offices in Durham, London and Glasgow. I completed a year’s placement at Waterstons, whilst at university, and was offered a job prior to returning to university for my final year. As I knew I had a job waiting for me, I could concentrate on my final year where I managed to secure a first-class honours degree. The role at Waterstons is not too prescriptive and will be evolving. Having such a varied role, will give me the opportunity to excel and develop my knowledge in technology infrastructure.
Who inspires you?
My mum is my absolute inspiration, she has worked tirelessly my whole life to support me. She has taught me everything I know, and even if I become half the person that she is, I know that will be an achievement in itself.
Meet the Class of 2019 and find out more about Tech Industry Gold accredited degrees
Find out more about Tech Industry Gold accredited degrees at Northumbria University
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