We spoke to a graduate security engineer at Jaguar Land Rover about why she chose Limerick as her adopted home.
Relocating to a different location, no matter the distance, can often be a really big adjustment. When you’re moving continents, though, that adjustment really seems to increase.
Shalom Nazir is a graduate security engineer at Jaguar Land Rover in Limerick. She moved there in 2016 all the way from India.
Throughout the month of May, we’ve been taking a closer look at Limerick, the surrounding mid-west region and its growing prospects as a global sci-tech hub.
At the beginning of the year, Jaguar Land Rover announced 150 new jobs in Shannon at a new global hub for software engineering, architecture and development.
Here, Nazir shares her story of moving from India to Ireland, and what she likes best about Limerick.
Where are you from?
I am from Kannur in Kerala, a state in South India. It is a sunny coastal place with lots of palm trees and beautiful beaches.
How long have you been in Ireland?
Since September 2016.
What prompted your decision to move here?
There were a few reasons behind this. A longer stay-back option in Ireland, shorter and lighter postgraduate options than a master’s in technology, and University of Limerick (UL) was offering a scholarship for its master’s in information and network security course.
What’s your role in Jaguar Land Rover?
I work as a graduate security engineer.
How would you describe your working environment?
Good craic. My workmates are talented, sociable, helpful and a lot of fun, which makes work that much more enjoyable. It’s a great place for graduates.
What do you like most about your job?
The variety of work that I get to do. And, of course, the fact that one day, when I see a certain car on the road, I can proudly say, ‘My work’s gone in there.’ I can’t wait!
Was it difficult to adjust to living and working in Ireland?
Apart from the fact that I don’t get to see my family as often as I want, as the travel time to get back home is very long (sometimes two days, door to door), I’ve adjusted well and find Ireland a charming place.
What surprised you about moving to Ireland?
For such a small country, there is abundant natural beauty and places to go. I mean, really, my family’s coming over to visit me soon and I have been trying to list down the places I want to take them to, but I can’t fit it all into two weeks. I have too many favourites!
How does your working life help to make you feel at home here?
The sports and social club here organises a lot of events and I find it’s a great way to socialise, blend in and have fun.
What do you like most about your adopted home?
The fact that Limerick is a relatively quiet place, which was also the reason why I chose Limerick over Dublin. The quality of life is better, in my opinion. Sports and recreation are big here and I love that. It’s nice to go play tennis or go for a swim in UL after a day’s work – helps keep peace of mind.
Want to work at Jaguar Land Rover? Check out the Jaguar Land Rover Careers page for current vacancies.
