Brian Hannon is a recent graduate of the BA (Hons) in Business Management and now works as a Management Consultant with Accenture in Dublin. We asked him about his time in DBS, and how his course helped him shape his career...
What did you feel was the best thing about studying in DBS?
The support structure offered by DBS anchored my ability to deliver my assignments to the best of my capacity. In particular the library service taught me world class research techniques that allowed me to effectively use technology, assimilate information and navigate the world of business literature. As a final year student the Careers Department becomes paramount in your search for a career. The DBS careers department offers excellent support resources both online and face to face to help guide you through the graduate employment arena. The careers specialists are incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated in helping you achieve your career goals.
How did you enjoy the course?
I chose DBS in particular as I wanted the opportunity to learn about how to run and manage businesses. I wanted to develop a broad understanding of how the different functions such as finance, economics, law, HR, IT played a role in the modern enterprise. The Business Management programme at DBS certainly gave me a fantastic introduction and overview to each of these domains.
What did you think of college life in DBS?
The classroom style environment provided by DBS propagates an environment that is not only conducive to exceptional classroom engagement but fosters a community within the course. It is this community that enabled me to thoroughly enjoy my time in DBS. College life in DBS is supported by a wide variety of clubs/societies and a thriving student union and student services department. These vital services provide a fantastic platform for students to engage with their peers and the college. These vibrant and engaging services are exceptionally managed and really aid students in embracing and enjoying their college experience.
How do you think your degree will benefit you?
The various project based assignments I completed while at DBS were a fantastic introduction to what it is like working in the corporate world. This is extremely similar to environment which I work in today. Upon reflection it actually taught me most importantly how to work with different people, different styles and ultimately adapt to ensure any challenges or differences could be overcome while pursing the desired outcome. Often you will find that it is these challenges and your ability to manage them in an effective way is what will differentiate you as you progress in your career. As a Consultant I work with colleagues who are engineers, medical doctors, academics, accountants to help solve our client’s problems. Accenture’s culture has taught me to value this diversity but also ensure I am constantly adapting to meet the needs of my stakeholders.
Advice for school leavers?
Think of this as the foundation to your career. Everyone knows a structure is only as strong as the foundation upon which it is supported. Think of your degree as the first step. My advice to anyone interested in business is to keep it general, experience and learn about as much as you can. DBS provides the perfect platform for you to do this.
I was personally never a fan of narrowing my focus instead I loved learning as much as I could about as many different parts of the business world as possible. Your educational journey will not define you it will simply provide you with the tools, skills and outlook to enable you to progress to the next stage of your life. The business world is fast becoming a multifaceted diverse marketplace and having the best skills is becoming a differentiating factor, DBS provides you with these skills required to succeed.