Being awarded Intern of the Year Runner-Up at L'Oréal was the highlight of the work placement experience for Clodagh Cahill-Turley who is currently completing the final year of her BA (Honours) in Business degree. As the only intern based in Ireland to be nominated for an award, this showcases her contribution to the company and recognises her achievements during her year-long placement.
Clodagh shares insights into her placement along with studying business at NCI below.
Why did you choose to study the BA (Honours) in Business at National College of Ireland?
When I completed my Leaving Certificate, like many students I wasn't sure what path I wanted to follow. Given my interest in beauty, I decided to complete a course in this area with Drogheda Institute of Further Education which I really enjoyed. At that point, I realised that a business degree would complement my previous qualification and National College of Ireland was my first choice when it came to exploring level 8 study options.
I knew NCI was the right choice for me for a number of reasons. I spoke to friends who attended the college and provided excellent reports on everything from the supports available to the social side of college life. If you are like me and want to get involved in the social side of college, NCI has many clubs and societies you can join. In terms of facilities available, students have access to quiet spaces in the library along with group study areas and a sensory room for those who need it.
The location of the campus in Dublin city with a Luas stop outside the door and with train stations and bus stops nearby was another thing that appealed to me. I also thought that the various modules on the BA (Honours) in Business degree were varied, meaning I would gain a broad understanding of different areas such as accounting, business law, marketing and human resources. However, the option to complete a 1-year work placement in industry as part of my studies was a big draw. Not only would the content I would be learning in the classroom provide me with knowledge of the business world but I would gain experience that would prepare me for the working world when I graduate as part of my degree. This was a pivotal factor in my decision-making process.
Ultimately, I am delighted with my decision to further my education at NCI.
Can you share some insights into studying Business at NCI?
Business offers a wide variety of core modules which are relevant to the business world. The modules listed below allowed me to dive into my creative mindset:
- Digital Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
- Creativity and Design
One module that stood out to me focused on developing Career Skills. I had the opportunity to attend career fairs, networking sessions with company’s and recruiters, and complete mock interviews to prepare for the work placement application process. I learned the importance of LinkedIn as a networking tool as well as the importance of aligning my CV with the job description I was applying for. The Careers Team recently launched an app called Simplicity where you can upload your CV, discover job opportunities, sign up for workshops for guidance and support and more.
You completed your work placement with L'Oréal where you were awarded Intern of the Year Runner Up. Tell us about your experience working there and what you learned during your placement.
I carried out my one-year internship with L’Oréal Ireland Limited as an Industrial Trade Marketing Intern within the Dermatological Beauty division. I learned a lot about the company when members of the Talent Acquisition Team along with interns visited our college to provide more information on placement roles. I knew L’Oréal would be the perfect fit for me as the company's values aligned with my own.
With the help of the Careers Team at NCI, I began my application and my L’Oréal journey. This internship allowed me to discover my passion for marketing and broadened my knowledge of the dermo-cosmetic and retail industry. I learned the importance of multitasking, note taking, asking questions when needed and hitting deadlines. I have taken so much from my experience and have been able to apply my time management skills to my final year studies. I now know that I would love to pursue a career in marketing within the ever-growing retail industry!
Some of my placement achievements include:
- Representing Ireland office and UKI interns as a Mental Health Committee Representative on the Early Careers NextGen Mental Health Committee
- Managing multiple projects and building positive relationships with suppliers to support brand campaigns
- Upskilling in key areas by completing over double the required time on the self-learning platform
- Winning company incentives and initiatives by completing brand courses and training to ensure I was equipped for the needs of my department
Being awarded Intern of the Year Runner-Up was the highlight of my time on work placement with L'Oréal. I was delighted to be recognised and celebrated by my amazing team who are specialists in their field. It is a privilege to have been the only intern based in Ireland to be nominated for and win an award.
My internship year with L’Oréal improved my current skills and enabled me to develop new ones. Deciding to complete the work placement was the right decision for me, I would definitely recommend it for anyone who wants to get a head start on their career.
Do you have any advice for someone who is considering their CAO options?
Think about what your interests are and choose your college and course based on this. You may think you want to apply where your friends are studying but make sure you are studying what and where is best for you. Do not stress if you are worried about points or what you want to do for the rest of your life, just chose an area you have a passion for. You do not need to have your whole life figured out. Remember you are only human; this is just the next chapter in your story.
I am so happy I did a PLC course at Drogheda Institute of Further Education before my current degree. It helped me to mature, boosted my points and gave me a sense of what college life is like. This is where my passion for the world of beauty, retail and wanting to expand my business knowledge was born. Before applying to a course, make sure it will be a good match for you before committing.
One thing you should always keep in mind is that you should reach out for help if you need it. Look into supports and grants offered such as HEAR, DEAR, SUSI and the Student Assistance fund. Do not let anything stop you from furthering your education and pursing your dream career! College staff are there to help and guide you as well as help you achieve your academic goals. I can proudly say I am the first person in my family to attend a higher education institution so if I can do it, you can too.
Finally, what's next for you and your career?
At the moment, I am a Student Leader and have also applied to join the Student Ambassador Programme at NCI. I am completing my final year of the BA (Honours) in Business. Once I finish my undergraduate studies, I plan to join a postgraduate programme again at NCI with the support of a scholarship.
From that point, I plan to apply to graduate programmes next year relating to marketing, sales, and the retail Industry. I have chosen electives that will align with my career aspirations such as PR and Social Media, Sales Management and Operations Planning and Design.
I will be keeping a close eye on upcoming opportunities, what is going on in the industry and current market trends and advancements and plan to attend relevant career and networking events to ensure I am building professional relationships. I am motivated to focus on my studies but also keeping a social life. It is important to have a good balance between work, college, home, and social life. My career is only beginning but I am enthusiastic to see where it takes me!
Clodagh is studying the BA (Honours) in Business at National College of Ireland. Visit our CAO Hub to learn more about our courses and student life at NCI!
