Beyond Graduation: Life as a Technology & Transformation Analyst
Sam Gallagher’s journey to Deloitte’s Graduate Programme: From University to Consulting Analyst
My name is Sam Gallagher, and I am currently an Analyst within Deloitte’s Human Capital business unit. My path here was paved at University College Dublin (UCD) where I first dove into the worlds of Economics and German during my undergraduate studies. My interest in the why behind human decision making led me to stay at UCD to complete a master's degree in Behavioural Economics, which is a field that fits perfectly with the people centric work we do here at Deloitte.
The Bridge Between Study and Career
My journey with the firm officially kicked off when I applied for a graduate role in late 2024. After navigating the interview process, I was thrilled to receive an offer to start in September 2025. However, there was a slight scheduling puzzle to solve because my MSc required a three-month internship during the summer of 2025.
Rather than looking elsewhere, I reached out to Deloitte to see if I could get a head start by completing my internship with them. I saw it as the perfect opportunity to gain early exposure to the projects and teams I would be working with over the next two years. Deloitte could not have been more accommodating. They were happy to facilitate the internship, allowing me to fulfill my degree requirements while getting a feel for the firm.
Navigating the HC Transition
While that summer internship gave me a helpful head start on the culture and ways of working, I was not the only one who felt prepared. If there is one thing consultants love, it is an acronym. My fellow graduates in HC would agree that the onboarding process made the transition from student to professional remarkably smooth.
Between the broad Technology and Transformation wide induction and the more specialized HC onboarding, the learning curve felt like a steady climb rather than a steep cliff. It gave me the confidence to settle into my role quickly and start making a meaningful impact within my team from day one.
Life at Deloitte: Beyond the Desk
Since officially joining the graduate program in September, my time here has been incredibly fulfilling. The work itself is engaging, but what really makes the experience stand out are the opportunities that happen away from the spreadsheets. From specialized training sessions to social events, there is a constant focus on growth and connection. These first few months have been about more than just professional development; they have been about building genuine friendships and a network that I know will support me throughout my career.
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