Veena Hirani

Current Employer/Organisation Name

North Kent College

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I am working in the same organisation since studying at Exeter, as a lecturer in Computing/Gaming.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I have been working in Education since 2006 and studying for the Masters has given me another perspective and in-depth understanding of it. The most rewarding part is to make a difference to the students (and their families) on a daily basis. The growth (whether it’s in confidence/academic or social skills) is incomparable to anything else in this job. Luckily, the other lecturers who I work with in my department are also very lovely and make it a joy to come to work.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

The staff were AMAZING and very supportive. I had a few interactions at the beginning of the course and the lecturers REALLY motivated and helped me.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

Each module was VERY insightful and informative, and it was a pleasure to take this knowledge and apply it.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

It’s one of the BEST universities and it has an outstanding reputation. As well as it being a Russell group university; meaning the staff would be knowledgeable and supportive and I’d get a great experience from studying here (Which I did!!!)

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

The research element was useful and making comparisons of Education systems across the world. I am desperate to make a change in my organisation, and am applying the knowledge in a practical way everyday. The Leadership element has allowed me to step up from my usual activities.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Study hard and the passion MUST be there as a pre-requisite. Get some experience of working in the real world, so you can make the comparisons with actual educational systems Vs others around the world.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to progress and am looking to become a SENCo or a Pastoral Lead in school.