Email: d.masson@qub.ac.uk
Tel: 028 9097 1565

What is your academic and career background? 

I studied combined social sciences in first year at university which combined sociology, social policy, psychology and economics. My initial thinking was to pursue a career in social work. On reflection, this was a rather naive aspiration for an 18 year old with very limited understanding of the social care system let alone any real life experience. I was fortunate that my degree offered flexibility and I decided to focus on Sociology as my major. I really enjoyed how the subject allowed me to explore various aspects of contemporary society such as education, work, culture and religion. 

What led to your career in Education? 

I always knew that I wanted a job that involved “working with people”, which sounds rather cliched, but I knew very early on that I wanted job where I felt I could have an  impact on people’s lives (hence the original idea of social work). My first graduate job was as a Youth Training Officer, working in the community sector. The role involved working with young people to support their transition from school to the workplace by delivering tailored programmes of life skills and employability skills that provided a pathway to employment or further education or training. During this time, I had the opportunity to undertake professional development training in counselling, careers guidance and education and training.  

When did you first join Queen’s? 

I joined Queen’s University in 2001 as a Careers Advisor, supporting undergraduate students from a range of subject areas to make informed decisions, develop career plans and deliver training on how to prepare for recruitment and selection. This role also allowed me to work with academic colleagues to develop careers education within the curriculum and to develop web-based and e-learning materials for use by students, graduates and academics. I completed a Postgraduate qualification in Careers Education Information and Guidance in Higher Education in 2007. 

What is your role at The Graduate School? What sort of support do you provide to students? 

I made the move to the Graduate School in February 2022. My role as Postgraduate Careers and Employability Consultant is a natural progression from my previous role in the university. I am able draw on my previous experience in careers guidance and education while enjoying the fresh challenge of developing programmes to support postgraduate students. My role is to enhance the employability skills of postgraduate students by developing and delivering a range of careers and employability programmes that highlight a diverse range of careers both in academia and other sectors and to equip postgraduate students with the skills they will need to be successful in their future careers.  

I particularly enjoy working with students in small group scenarios and in one-to-one guidance consultations. This is where I feel I can make a real impact by helping students to explore career options, clarify their thinking and move forward in their career planning. 

Common queries from students and how I can help: 

How can I make my CV have more impact? The Graduate School offer workshops on how to perfect your CV for Academic jobs and for jobs outside academia throughout the year. You can also book a one-to-one careers consultation for individual, tailored feedback on your CV. 

I don’t know where to start to look for jobs in the UK. In a one-to-one careers consultation we can explore options and you will be signposted to job search websites relevant to your field. 

I’m really confused about my career options after my PhD. Sign up for 'Your PhD... What's Next?'. This 4 week programme is specifically designed to provide PhD students time and space to reflect on the skills and experience you have gained throughout your PhD and to equip you with the tools you need to progress in your future careers. You will explore career options, consider how to market yourself to potential employers, how to effectively communicate your research experience for academic and non-academic jobs and develop a practical framework to take charge of your career and adapt to career change.  

What so of advice do you offer them? 

One piece of advice – Good things happen when preparation and opportunity meet so be open to new opportunities and be prepared to make the most of them.  The Graduate School offers a wide range of opportunities to develop your employability, acquire new skills and gain experience.  

Name one thing you can’t survive a working day without. 

Coffee. No explanation necessary. 

How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field to better serve students' needs? 

I am a member of the Association of Higher Education Careers Services, Ireland (AHECS) and the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services, UK (AGCAS). I regularly participate in opportunities for continuing professional development, network with colleagues and exchange ideas and knowledge via conferences, events and training. 

Do you have any favourite inspirational quotes or mantras that keep you motivated in your work? 

When your inner critic says you can’t, find a second opinion from another voice. There’s always a different way to look at things. 

Do you think there are any unique challenges that students face today which are different to the challenges students faced in previous generations? What are they? 

In an increasingly uncertain and unpredictable job market it can be difficult to predict where future graduate job opportunities will be. Building resilience is crucial for students to navigate career uncertainty. Adopt a growth mindset, which involves believing in your ability to learn, grow, and adapt. Enhance your employability by actively seeking out opportunities for continuous learning and skills development such as participating in our workshops and programmes. Build a strong support network by attending events and connecting with other postgraduate students. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career path. 

What's your favourite thing about Belfast that students should definitely check out?  

It’s great to have Botanic gardens on our doorstep. Pick up a sandwich at Ravenous and head to Botanic Gardens. 

What's your favourite book or movie that you think every student should experience? 

Notting Hill. Classic Rom-Com.  Nostalgia from a simpler time before social media and a great soundtrack. Also has a message about the importance of taking risks in life. Sometimes you have to let go of what's holding you back and take a chance on something new…. a good message in career/life planning! 

What types of music or podcasts do you enjoy listening to in your free time?  

I love listening to any female soul and jazz singers from Nina Simone and Ella Fitzgerald to Amy Winehouse and have recently discovered Raye. Podcast Squiggly Careers 

Do you have a favourite travel destination or a memorable trip?  

Recently visited Jordan. Highlights included visiting Petra (so much bigger than I imagined) and the Wadi Rum desert where Lawrence of Arabia lived (only the Irish could bring rain to the desert)