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.
Keelin McGrath
MSc Aviation Finance 2020, Market Analyst 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."
Rebecca Yue
MSc Aviation Finance 2019, Assistant Vice President, Commercial Aircraft Leasing (Marketing) at Jackson Square Aviation
"UCD Smurfit School helped me transition from a career in the public sector to the corporate sector. I am a Chemistry graduate with no prior business or finance knowledge and the MSc Aviation Finance provided the subject knowledge and skills that I still use in my day-to-day working life. The emphasis on group work throughout my degree helped me develop the skills to work in multicultural and diverse teams, essential skills needed in a global environment. UCD Smurfit School is much more than receiving a degree - the long-lasting connections I made whilst studying through the UCD alumni networks helped to jumpstart my career."
Brandon Sharkey
MSc Aviation Finance 2020, Trading Associate, Aviation Finance at Standard Chartered Bank
"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 100,000 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
