Personal development
Diary of a student…
better. It takes time to adjust routines, but after a few weeks I’d adapted to make sure that I had the time to study. The old saying ‘no pain, no gain’ is very true. It’s hard to be motivated to study at times, especially when you’re hitting a busy period at work, and you have to find a balance. It’s really rewarding though and the more I progress, the more confidence I have day to day. My team are really supportive too and encourage me when my motivation dips. I always turn to them if I need to talk things through and it really helps to have such a great sounding-board. Did the fact that the CIPP is Chartered or recognised within the industry influence your decision to enrol with the CIPP? And were there any particular modules which were of interest prior to enrolling? The fact that the CIPP is such a well- respected industry body was definitely an influencing factor. The CIPP is the standard that Cintra upholds: as an organisation, we have worked closely with the CIPP across a range of initiatives, so I know that they offer so much more than excellent courses. It’s really the qualification to have and this has definitely been born out by the quality of the course – it’s well-structured and the tutors and support are first rate. For someone who is thinking about studying for a CIPP qualification, what would your advice be to them? Absolute no brainer – ‘go for it’. You need to be very organised and able to manage your time effectively, but the CIPP tutors are great. They’re really helpful and there is a lot of support and great resources available to help you get the best out of your chosen course. It’s hard but very rewarding and worthwhile. n
Nimra Ajmal ACIPP Bureau administrator, Cintra HR & Payroll Services
Can you give us a brief background into your life?
absolutely delighted that, after finishing my apprenticeship, I was given the opportunity to continue my studies on the CIPP Foundation Degree course. Why did you choose to study the Foundation Degree? It appealed to me as it gives the knowledge to develop in my chosen profession. CIPP qualifications are very desirable and a great way to demonstrate knowledge of and commitment to payroll. Cintra insists on all bureau staff being CIPP qualified and have been really supportive in my desire to continue my payroll studies. Many of my colleagues have studied with the CIPP too and are always there for that extra bit of support, help and advice. How important is this degree in relation to your career? To me, this degree is an essential part of progressing my career in payroll. It has given me a better understanding of all different aspects of payroll, which has enhanced the contribution I can make to my team and to the service we offer our clients. I feel so much more confident and know that I can make a really valuable and valued contribution. It’s also great to be able to network with other payroll professionals. How did you cope with the work- life balance and your study? I’m not going to lie…it is very difficult. It’s hard to work full-time and find the time to study too. I have very supportive friends and family who helped to organise my time
Originally from Dubai I moved to the UK aged thirteen. I currently live with my mum and two siblings (younger brother and sister), although I have recently bought a flat with my fiancé and got a new puppy, Ace. I am very passionate about making a difference. Throughout my school years and A-levels, I used to volunteer and raise money for a women’s charity centre that provide support to women and children who were survivors of domestic violence. I regularly donate blood and bone marrow to help those in need who are fighting leukaemia. Can you give us an insight into your career and qualifications background? My initial thoughts, whilst studying A-levels, was that I would like to go on to university to study law, but working part-time during my studies inspired me to look at alternative ways of continuing my education. I have always enjoyed working alongside people and helping others and have always had in interest numbers. After researching different professions, I decided a career in payroll would be a great fit and an apprenticeship at Cintra HR & Payroll Services gave me the best of all worlds: continuing my education whilst working with a great team and a variety of clients. This apprenticeship affirmed that payroll was the right choice for me, and I can honestly say that this has been one of the best decisions I’ve made! I was
| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward | April 2020 | Issue 59 14
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