Alumni Spotlight: Nargis Dewji

Hailing from Tanzania, University of Galway alumnus Nargis Dewji graduated from the J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics with a Bachelor of Commerce, specialising in Economics.

Now pursuing a career in banking and financial services in Germany, we were delighted Nargis could make time to chat with us about her time at the University.

What motivated you to pursue study at University of Galway?

While living in London, I discovered the University of Galway through friends I had studied with in Malaysia, who had moved to Galway to pursue their medical degrees. Their stories piqued my curiosity, so I started researching the university and the city itself.

What captivated me was Galway’s reputation as one of the friendliest cities, its vibrant cultural scene, and its cosy, student-friendly atmosphere full of energy and charm. As I explored the university’s website, I realised there were numerous untapped opportunities waiting for me—both academically and personally—and I knew it was the perfect place to continue my journey.

Describe your overall experience as a student at University of Galway.

My time at the University of Galway shaped me into the person I am today. The university provided engaging curricula and was home to supportive, experienced lecturers who went beyond delivering exceptional lessons—they actively prepared us for the world outside the classroom. Their guidance was invaluable as they encouraged my career aspirations and showed me the pathways to achieve them.

Outside academics, University of Galway offered countless opportunities to explore interests beyond my course. Whether it was pursuing hobbies or participating in extracurricular activities, there was truly something for everyone. These experiences allowed me to build my CV right on campus, a testament to the unique and enriching environment the university fosters. What stands out most to me is the collective support and dedication from everyone at University of Galway—they genuinely want you to succeed.

I’m grateful to still be in touch with many of the lecturers, mentors, and peers who supported me during my time at Galway—they continue to inspire and encourage me even today.

What experience, if any, did you have with the Career Development Centre at University of Galway?

The Career Development Centre was an incredible resource during my time at Galway. They actively organised CV clinics, offering practical advice on how to make your CV stand out. The personalised feedback I received was invaluable—they carefully reviewed my CV and suggested opportunities tailored to my strengths and existing skills. This not only felt fulfilling but also boosted my confidence.

I was especially grateful for the Job Fair and Graduate and Internship Fair that they organised. These events were excellent opportunities to connect with potential employers and explore career paths, making a significant impact on my professional development.

In what way, if any, do you feel the career supports available at University of Galway contributed to you getting the position you currently hold?

The Employability Award, which launched during my course, was instrumental in preparing me for job interviews. The training involved attending skills-based workshops, gaining work experience, and completing self-assessments. These activities not only enhanced my confidence but also culminated in earning the employability certificate, which played a key role in shaping my readiness for the professional world.

Were there any other student support services or resources that you found especially helpful and why?

The Students’ Union was invaluable in helping me navigate the university and connect with other students through the fantastic events they organised. I also participated in the Seas Suas Programme, which raised awareness about personal and community well-being, earning me a certificate that I’m proud of.

The Blackstone Launchpad was a game-changer for me as an aspiring entrepreneur. Their team guided my group on shaping our project idea and preparing for pitching. This experience inspired me to become actively involved with the Launchpad, where I had the chance to organise events promoting entrepreneurship and networking opportunities for students.

Additionally, volunteering through the ALIVE Programme was deeply fulfilling. It gave me the chance to pursue meaningful projects, like helping children with their homework after school—an experience I cherished. The wide range of resources and opportunities at the University of Galway truly enriched my journey.

What advice do you wish you had received/listened to as a student?

I take a lot of advice and actively seek it out—I’ve always believed there’s so much to learn from the experiences of others, but I do wish someone had told me earlier that personal growth and career growth go hand in hand. How you shape yourself—your mindset, habits, and values—is what ultimately sets you up for success in your career. For a long time, I viewed them as separate, but I’ve come to realise they’re deeply connected. When you focus on growing as a person, you naturally build the foundation for a fulfilling and successful career.

How did your course prepare you for your current career?

My course was incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of subjects such as economics, management, marketing, law, data analytics, and media, to name a few. This breadth allowed me to explore diverse disciplines, discover what truly interested me, and then focus on a major that aligned with my passions and career goals.

The lecturers were exceptional, each bringing something unique to the classroom through their teaching methods and course delivery. Their approach made learning both engaging and practical. The inclusion of individual and group projects further enriched my experience—they were not only fascinating to work on but also invaluable in helping me develop critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, all of which have been instrumental in my career.

Describe your time at University of Galway in one word.

Empowering 😊