NCI Blog

We caught up with one of our alumni, Amar,  who chose to pursue their Master's in Data Analytics at National College of Ireland back in 2018. From the moment he arrived in Dublin, he was on a journey that would see him transition from an international student to an Irish citizen!

Amar spoke to us about what it was really like studying at NCI, his tips for finding a job in Ireland, and what becoming an Irish citizen means to him. Have a read below for more of his insights!

1. Why did you choose National College of Ireland for your MSc in Data Analytics back in 2018?

NCI stood out to me for its strong reputation for delivering internationally recognised programmes that combined technical expertise with practical, real-world applications. 

The curriculum was designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, equipping graduates with the advanced data analytics skills employers were looking for. For someone seeking to transition into the rapidly evolving field of data analytics and gain a competitive edge in the global job market, NCI offered the ideal environment and resources to achieve my goals.

2. Can you share some insights into what it was really like studying the MSc in Data Analytics at NCI? What did you find most challenging and most rewarding about the course?

The most rewarding part for me was how relevant and industry-focused the content was, and how engaging it felt to connect classroom learning with real-world data challenges. 

On the other hand, the most challenging part was managing the workload - especially the back-to-back assignments from different modules, which could be overwhelming for some students. In my personal opinion, if someone is pursuing a master’s degree right after completing a bachelor’s degree, I’d recommend fully dedicating their time and focus to the curriculum, assessments, self-learning, and exam preparation. Staying on top of lectures, actively participating in discussions, and openly seeking guidance from professors really helped me stay on track and get the most out of the programme.

3. What was your experience like finding your first job in Ireland after graduating from NCI? Do you have any practical tips for international students entering the Irish job market?

Finding my first job in Ireland after graduating from NCI was both a learning experience and a test of patience and persistence. As an international student, it took time to understand the dynamics of the Irish job market and to tailor my approach accordingly. Networking played a crucial role - attending career fairs, connecting with alumni through NCI’s Career events and reaching out to recruiters on LinkedIn helped me discover opportunities that weren’t always advertised publicly.

One of the most important things I learned was customising my CV and cover letter for each role, highlighting not just technical skills but also teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities that employers in Ireland value. My practical tip for international students is to start early - engage with the NCI careers service, practice interview skills, and build connections while you’re still studying. Be proactive, stay confident, and don’t hesitate to ask for feedback after interviews. The Irish job market is welcoming to skilled graduates, and perseverance goes a long way. 

4. How important do you think networking and building connections were for your success here in Ireland?

I believe networking and building connections were absolutely crucial to my success here in Ireland, both professionally and personally. Networking not only helped me successfully complete my master’s and eventually secure a job, but it also made my transition to a completely new part of the world much smoother.

As an international student, I was starting both my professional and personal life from scratch, in a new culture, standing alongside many other international individuals who were on similar journeys. It would have been impossible to navigate and cope with everything relying solely on my own experiences. Engaging with others and learning from their experiences gave me valuable insights into cultural differences, local values, and the ambitions and dreams that people bring to Ireland. These connections helped me feel more integrated, broadened my perspective, and gave me the confidence to pursue my own goals while respecting and appreciating the diversity around me. 

5. Moving from a Stamp 4 visa to officially becoming an Irish citizen is a massive achievement! Can you tell us a bit about that journey and what this milestone means to you?

Moving from a Stamp 4 visa to officially becoming an Irish citizen is truly a massive achievement and one of the proudest milestones in my journey. For any international student, the ultimate goal is often to feel like a native or a local, fully integrated into the place they’ve chosen to build their life.

For me, this journey has been transformative - I can now see things much more clearly, and what once felt like daunting challenges now appear as blessings that shaped me into who I am today. Choosing to apply for citizenship was both an emotional and a practical decision, one of the most significant I’ve ever made. It represents not just a legal status, but also a deep sense of belonging, gratitude, and commitment to the country that has given me so many opportunities and experiences. 

6. Do you have any advice for someone who is considering their college choices and who may be interested in studying Data Analytics at NCI?

For anyone considering their college options and thinking about studying Data Analytics at NCI, my advice would be to take the time to research and speak to the right people - it can make all the difference. Today, after seven years in Ireland and completing my master’s at NCI, it all feels very straightforward. But back in 2018, as an international student just about to embark on my journey, I was full of questions, doubts, excitement, and curiosity about what lay ahead. I was fortunate enough to connect with OneBounce Counselling in Pune, India, where Amar Gujar guided me through the process, helped me understand everything about NCI, and even connected me with NCI representatives and international alumni, which really boosted my confidence in my choice.

Over the years, NCI has continued to keep its curriculum aligned with industry standards, offering up-to-date modules and creating opportunities for students to connect with the professional world. If you’re considering NCI, I’d recommend reaching out to their team, speaking to alumni, and embracing the experience- it’s a decision I’m glad I made. 

7. Finally, what’s next for you and your career?

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing both personally and professionally. Having built a strong foundation in data and technology over the past few years, my next goal is to take on more leadership responsibilities and contribute to impactful, data-driven initiatives that make a real difference. I’m also keen to keep learning and staying at the forefront of emerging technologies, particularly in areas like AI and cloud computing, which are shaping the future of our industry.

On a personal level, I want to keep giving back to the community - mentoring new international students and helping others navigate their own journeys, just as others once helped me. At the same time, I look forward to exploring Irish culture more deeply, now that I feel truly a part of it, and taking advantage of the opportunities that Irish citizenship brings - opening the doors to the world without the usual visa restrictions. For me, the journey doesn’t stop here; it’s all about continuous growth, new experiences, and making meaningful contributions wherever I can.

Thinking of starting your own journey to an NCI Master's as an international student? Explore our master's courses in Business and Computing to find the perfect fit for you!