Alumni Insights
Our alumni are the ultimate ambassadors of the UCD Smurfit School learning experience. They provide the most concrete proof of the excellence that typifies our School. Read the testimonials below from our graduates who share their experience of completing the programme, or visit our MSc Alumni Stories page and Video Gallery for even more insights from our community of alumni.
Joe Kelly
MSc Aviation Finance 2024, Pricing Analyst AerCap
“This course provides students with strong financial and business competencies as well as transferable industry-specific skills. Students are exposed to all facets of aviation including commercial, technical, legal, financial and economic disciplines. Outside the classroom, corporate open days, industry events and class trips all further enhance the rich learning experience.“
Keelin McGrath
MSc Aviation Finance 2020, Senior Analyst - Commercial Insights at Avolon
"After obtaining my bachelor’s degree in Business and Law, I chose to study the MSc Aviation Finance in the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business school as I wanted to obtain a focused education which would allow me to build a career in the Aviation Industry. Indeed, my time in Smurfit did just that. The course curriculum was crafted by a collaboration between experienced faculty and industry experts which ensured I gained the base knowledge and skill set I needed to commence a career in the Aircraft Leasing Industry. Additionally, the seminars and company visits, which formed part of the course, allowed students to gain great exposure to the industry and an understanding of how the industry works in practice. Finally, the learning environment struck a great balance between teamwork, collaboration and independent learning. I am delighted and grateful to have attended the UCD Smurfit School."
Brandon Sharkey
MSc Aviation Finance 2020, Trading Associate, Associate Vice President of Trading & Pricing at World Star Aviation
"The MSc in Aviation Finance has enabled me with both the knowledge and the skillset to secure a role at one of the world’s leading aircraft lessors. The academic staff have an abundance of industry experience and I would highly recommend the course to those looking to break into what is one of Ireland’s most dynamic and successful industries."
Alexander Vining, MSc Aviation Finance 2017, Director, Commercial Analysis at Falko
UCD Business Alumni Network
UCD Business Alumni comprises a global network of over 90,000 graduates in over 100 countries. The key focus of UCD Business Alumni is to help our business graduates keep in touch with colleagues, classmates, academics and the wider business community through a range of alumni activities and supports. Our goal is to create a strong alumni community and network, with the school as the focal point. We are focused on building a life-long mutually beneficial relationship with graduates to ensure that they are constantly informed and engaged through regular events, reunions and communications.
Find out more about the UCD Business Alumni Network and how you can become involved.
Discover our Rankings and Accreditations
