Laura Hamilton's graduate story

What did you study at Manchester Met and why?

“MSc Engineering Project Management - I wanted to study this course as it allowed me to develop the skills of my Bachelors degree in engineering but apply the project management skills as opposed to the practical engineering elements. I wanted to look closer at the management of large-scale engineering delivery rather than the research and development aspects of technology.

I had already studied at another university in Manchester for my Bachelors degree, so knew that I wanted to remain in the city, as it allowed me to travel and maintain my employment whilst studying. The department was highly recommended, and Manchester Met was one of the only universities offering this type of Masters course within the area. The course stood out to me as it was a Project Management course but specifically tailored to apply to engineering. It allowed me to learn all elements of project management yet maintain the practical and scientific skills of my engineering background.”

Did you enjoy your time at Manchester Met? What was your favourite part of your experience?

“I loved my time at Manchester Met. My experience was shaped by the people that I met. I was able to study alongside a friendly group of like-minded individuals from a host of differing backgrounds whilst learning from industry-recognised professionals. The degree felt well-tailored to suit my aspirations and having a friendly cohort to study alongside and undertake group work with made studying enjoyable.”

What journey did you take whilst looking for a job once finishing University?

“I applied for my current position 6 months prior to my course ending. I applied in February and was interviewed in March, having applied for the role through the company’s careers and job listings portal. I applied for an assistant role as I had limited experience in the field, and this would allow me to work my way up with training. I was honest in terms of my studies and experience and was offered the role in March. I submitted my dissertation the first week in August, started my current role the following Monday, and have been there ever since.

I had limited experience in project management other than in university modules, and previously worked as part time bar staff in a local pub. I believe it was a combination of my personal skills developed through this work (such as crucial interpersonal skills like teamwork, following instructions, delegating) and my studies that gave me the confidence to apply for the role and be given the opportunity to learn and develop.”

What is it like working in your field?

“Working on a large-scale engineering project offers challenges, both expected and unexpected, and allows me to develop my skills continuously to adapt to a changing project environment.”

What does your day-to-day life look like at work?

“A big part is Programme Management, updating and maintaining schedules in Primavera P6 for large-scale railway engineering jobs, from concept phase through to project closeout. Developing programmes to capture changes and mitigating issues as they arise, as well as developing tender programmes for upcoming bids. Risk analysis and performance quant tracking to report to senior level staff, assessing critical paths and construction statistics on live projects.”

What skills or experience did you learn at Manchester Met that are key to your work life?

“Programme management software and IT skills. The degree allowed me to create schedules and Gantt charts for engineering modules, which provided me with transferable skills that are now used within live systems.”

What advice would you give students looking to get into your field of work?

“Learn how to create schedules for jobs and the basics of maintaining these. It doesn’t matter what software it is, as the skills are transferable, but understanding the basics will allow you to adapt to the project environment. Another tip is to start applying for jobs approximately 6-8 months before the course ends. This gives you a good amount of time to get something set up for when you leave and negotiate start times that suit your plans and aspirations. Use LinkedIn jobs to your advantage as part of this. Apply for anything you believe yourself to be qualified in. You don’t have to match the description completely, but have a background knowledge or experience you can draw on and a willingness to learn and you will go far.”

Do you think you could have done anything differently during your course which could have better prepared you for working life after graduation?

“I believe I applied for jobs at the right time. I started early as I was worried about my future but I’m a nervous person, so start applying whenever you feel comfortable enough to. There’s lots of careers support, I made use of the Careers Service who helped me with interview tips and confidence, as well as practice with video interviews, which were very new for me at that time. Make use of every support and opportunity, as the one you least expect to help may just be your best advice.”

If you could give one piece of advice for those starting their career journey, what would you say?

“Be prepared to learn. You may already have lots of experience, but someone will know something you don’t. Listen to others and take advice, don’t be too proud to ask for help and you will work better. Keep learning and networking with others, you’re always going to learn something new. Think independently but work with your teams and you’re sure to go very far!”.