The last couple of months in university are usually filled with one daunting question, so what are you going to do next? While there are so many options I found myself torn between two: start my career or further my education? I quickly decided I wasn’t ready to compromise on either and began to look for opportunities which allowed me to do both.

Changing jobs or going back to education as a mature student in your late twenties can be a huge challenge and worry for a lot of people contemplating it. In summer 2019 I did both of those things, joining the Bord Bia International Graduate Programme, undertaking an MSc in Global Business Practice in UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School alongside getting hands-on experience of working in the Irish food, drink and horticulture industry. In the following blog I have set out my experience so far – from money to work and education – and why I am delighted with my decision to take that step.

Are you a recent graduate? Are you eager to get out into the world of work, but also want to further your education? Are you passionate about Irish Food and Drink, and want the world to know about our high quality and sustainability credentials? Are you an ambitious, honest and hard-working individual and who can show great initiative?