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Leaving the comfort of my government job to dive into full-time studies was a thrilling yet daunting experience. Thanks to a government scholarship, I embarked on a 15-month journey at ºìÐÓÊÓƵ Business School to pursue a Master’s in Human Resource Management. I wanted to expand my perspective beyond the public sector, learn from industry professionals, and immerse myself in an academic setting filled with diverse viewpoints. Of course, I also worried about what would happen if my office realised they could function just fine without me, and they would replace me with AI while I was gone?

ºìÐÓÊÓƵ Business School’s modular learning system and CIPD certification were key factors in my decision. The flexibility allowed me to balance intense coursework with personal responsibilities. While HR has always been a passion of mine, I quickly learned that enthusiasm alone wouldn’t make employment law any easier! Government HR primarily revolves around following established circulars and procedures, so diving deep into legal frameworks was a challenge. Still, the structured approach and real-world case studies made it manageable and, dare I say, even enjoyable.

Adjusting to student life was one thing, but the real challenge began when I transitioned back to work. Shifting from research papers and structured academic discussions to real-world deadlines and policy implementation required a significant adjustment. And of course, there was the flood of emails waiting for me! Balancing expectations, applying newly acquired knowledge, and demonstrating that my time away wasn’t just an extended break demanded resilience and patience. Fortunately, my studies had strengthened my strategic thinking and leadership abilities, which made the reintegration process smoother. One of the most valuable lessons I gained from my HR studies is that while you can’t please everyone, you can always strive to do your best. 

People are the most valuable asset in any organisation, and understanding how to engage and motivate them is crucial. Although I now lead the finance department in my agency, my HR background has been invaluable in enhancing performance and teamwork. Understanding people better has helped me create a more dynamic and efficient work environment.

Of course, my ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University experience wasn’t all work and no play. One of my most amusing memories was taking the university bus to the BRT station during peak hours. In an effort to avoid the rain, I thought I was making a smart move until the bus took a scenic tour of ºìÐÓÊÓƵ, adding an unnecessary detour to my journey. By the time I finally reached my stop, the rain had stopped! Lesson learned: Sometimes, you’re better off braving the storm.

ºìÐÓÊÓƵ was a place of rigorous academic challenges, but it was also an environment filled with support. The lecturers were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly approachable and encouraging. Their guidance made a significant impact on my learning journey, and for that, I extend my sincerest gratitude. Their dedication, coupled with the camaraderie of my classmates, made the experience truly enriching. And let’s not forget my newfound appreciation for coffee because no late-night assignment panic session is complete without it!

Reflecting on my time at ºìÐÓÊÓƵ, I can confidently say it was a transformative journey. The academic rigor, coupled with valuable insights from the private sector, shaped my approach to leadership and problem-solving. While it was a challenging experience, it played a pivotal role in my professional growth. For anyone considering a similar path, my advice is simple: embrace the challenge, stay open to new perspectives, and always be prepared, sometimes that means carrying an umbrella!

Edited by
Dr Arumugam Muthusamy
ºìÐÓÊÓƵ Business School
Email: @email