Email: n.halleron@qub.ac.uk

What was your education and career journey before you started working at The Graduate School? 

I studied Event Management at Ulster University in Coleraine. I knew this was the career I wanted to follow since school. Before starting with The Graduate School I worked in hospitality within an event management role at a city centre hotel in Belfast. 

What's your role at The Graduate School, and what’s the most challenging thing about your job? 

I started with the Graduate School in December 2022. My role is Training & Events Co Ordinator within the Student Engagement Team and I enjoy working with such a dynamic and welcoming group. It’s a very varied role – no two days are the same – which can be a challenge in itself, but is also an aspect of the job that I really enjoy. 

What have you enjoyed most about your time at The Graduate School so far? 

Meeting students at the Graduate School events and getting an insight into what works is really interesting and lends itself well to future planning. Rolling out events that students will benefit from and what they will enjoy is the most important part for me, and since I’ve been in this role we’ve had some stand out occasions, such as our Research Culture Celebration, The Graduate School Picnic, and The Big Graduate School Quiz. 

Are there any unique resources or opportunities available through your department that students might not be aware of?  

The PGLI opportunity here is incredible. It allows students the opportunity to practice skills in applying for event funding, enhance their project management skills and to roll out an event of their choice depending on their interests and studies. 

Name one thing you can’t survive a working day without. Why’s it so important?  

Coffee - a stop at Junction cafe is a must in the morning.   

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

Taste & Tour is a local walking tour that explores cafes/bars/ restaurants in the city centre. It's a great way to see the city in a fun way while tasting local produce! 

If you could switch roles with any student for a day, which program or course would you choose, and why?  

I would definitely register for Building your Emotional Resilience. Having an awareness of your own reactions to situations and understanding good life practice can be of benefit in the workplace and in your own personal life. The onsite yoga on offer is also very appealing- to have complimentary classes in such a beautiful building is a bonus. 

If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring three things, what would they be? 

Water, snacks and a box of fireworks!