Ellinor Johansson, Master in Working Life Science
What is your current occupation?
"I've been working as an HR partner at NCC since 2017. It's an exciting assignment and I have the overriding HR responsibility for our region Civil Middle (Värmland, Örebro, Västmanland & Sörmland) with around 300 employees. I have the privilege of supporting all heads on staff issues and work with our management team to develop our operations.
Why did you choose to study the Master programme in working life studies?
"I majored in sports science and working life studies and after my Bachelor's degree I wanted to study further, especially in my degree major working life studies, which is a very good subject for a foundation of how work works. I'm very pleased with my choice of subject as well as moving on to Master level. It added an extra dimension and deeper understanding. I didn't feel quite done with studies when I graduated. I wanted to know more and had the opportunity to carry on.
How useful are your qualifications in your job?
"I feel that, regardless of job, this programme provides fantastic frames and tools. Then it's up to me to put them to good use. My training means that I can communicate on a deeper and broader level with my management colleagues and above all keep a focus on all aspects of HR issues. Presently, my professional role involves a great deal of labour law and I wish more of had been included and above all the practical side of labour law. It's not until you face a real-life situation and have to act that you "actually learn". How to teach this, I don't know! Perhaps more practical components and more mandatory modules in labour law?"
Any tips to current students?
"My first tip is to move on to Master's level. You really stand to gain. There is closer exchange with teachers as the student groups are smaller. In my job, I also notice that a Master's degree 60 or 120 credits gives weight to a CV. Choose a programme with care to show that you have a plan for your degree. The Master programme in working life studies, for instance, is very broad and you develop analytical skills in many areas that were only indicated at Bachelor's level. Get experience! Go out and practise, get a mentor who can act as a sounding board. I have a mentor to turn to and consult about difficult labour law issues and without her I wouldn't feel as confident."
And your future?
"I'm very happy at NCC and in this line of business. It's varied and constantly developing. No day is like another in this job. I travel a great deal between our offices and projects and every day is a new challenge! Without doubt, I'll be working with HR issues and I believe that no one is ever too old to learn, so who knows, I may be taking some courses now and then at the university.