MSc International Employment Relations and Human Resource Management, 2012
Manager for Organisational Development, ConAgra Foods
Please describe your career path to date.
I personally feel that gaining work experience before I joined LSE helped me make sense of my degree. It is my opinion that understanding how a business works, and the environment it operates in substantially increases the relevance and understanding of a management degree. I wanted to transition to human resources, so at LSE , I specialised in Human Resources and post my specialisation joined ConAgra Foods (FMCG) as Manager Organisational Development.
Why did you choose this job?
I chose the job because of my previous experience in brand marketing and having observed the workings of the HR function from the other side of the table. My current job involves designing and deploying HR interventions which are closely aligned to the business needs to enhance organisational performance and effectiveness. This role provided me an opportunity, to be a true business partner, hence I choose this job.
What career plans do you have for the future?
I plan to continue working in the field of human resources. It is a field, which still isn't saturated and hence, there is a lot of scope for innovation. It is dynamic and ever changing with organisations increasingly giving human resources a role to play in aiding business performance and recognizing HR professionals as business partners. The field of HR is going to be an interesting one to learn and grow in.
Thinking back, why did you choose your degree subject and why did you choose LSE?
I thoroughly researched my options before applying to LSE but I applied for this course options as the curriculum came across as crisp, up to date and relevant. I must say I wasn't disappointed! LSE provided numerous credit options, sometimes across disciplines as well, which was very useful. I felt LSE offered the right balance of degree customisation, without losing the essence of the core subjects. I also felt the support LSE provided while we wrote the dissertation with seminars and research tools application was extremely helpful. I chose LSE as it is one of the best names in the world- that goes without saying. Also, being in a social science institute, I felt we were trained to look at each issue holistically and look at business operation from a sustainability focus rather than a pure profit focus. I had a great time at LSE and I am sure, there are very few places in the world, which are as intellectually charged up as LSE.
What advice would you give to prospective or current LSE students?
Try to get some work experience before going in for a higher education degree. It substantially increases the relevance of your master’s degree. Make sure you attend the welcome fair on Houghton Street, all the school services, societies; opportunities are there for the week- make sure you visit every stall. Time is limited at LSE - you will have lots on your plate, so prioritise well. Don't be excessively focussed on just one thing, be it academics, extra -curricula’s or job search - manage your time well. Last but not the least, you’ll meet some great minds and personalities at LSE, coming from diverse backgrounds, your biggest life learning will come from these wonderful people- so go out and make friends for life!
Overall, how do you look back on your LSE experience?
I had a great time at LSE. I don't think I could have chosen a better course and university option for higher studies. LSE was all that I imagined it to be and then some more. Not only was it a fulfilling intellectual environment, but also I made some great friends and memories that will last me a lifetime!