Juliet Eyore Ikhide

Can you tell us about your educational background and what led you to your current position at Abertay University?

I have a PhD in Business Administration (with a focus on Human Resource Management) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Both degrees were obtained from Eastern Mediterranean University Cyprus (Northern) where I was a scholarship student and worked as a research and teaching assistant. Shortly before the completion of my doctorate programme, I had several lecturing job offers but after carefully researching and praying (I'm a person of Faith), I selected Abertay. Our University was attractive to me because of its location in Scotland, the collaborative and supportive work environment that makes it easier to make good impact on students’ experiences and as well as for my personal development.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how have your experiences shaped your professional journey?

All throughout my academic journey I have always been a student with excellent standing. However, I never thought I was going to end up in academia! I always wanted to be in a field where I could have some sort of direct and measurable impact on people's lives. That’s what led to me becoming a research and teaching assistant. This was a very rewarding role because it helped me to develop my research and teaching skills and provided the platform to share my knowledge with others and mentor them beyond academic concerns. 

Are there any mentors or role models who have had a significant impact on your career, and what lessons have you learned from them?

At every point in my life and career journey, I have always made an effort at seeking out and maintain quality relationships and secondly, keeping company with the ‘wise’. It is my culture to connect with people who have worked the path before me and whose iron can sharpen mine. I have learned the importance of being diligent in whatever my hands find to do, rendering service to all as best as possible and without eyeservice. Lastly to give back; basically, using my resources for others because I have been blessed for that purpose.

Can you share any advice or words of encouragement for students or aspiring professionals from underrepresented backgrounds?

The words of encouragement for people in that group is not to take a victim position but take responsibility for their development and achievement going forward. To simply see their challenges and perceived limitations as an opportunity to keep striving because that process will most likely refine them. In most instances, the process makes one develop certain enduring character that makes us more prepared and highly competent for any responsibility or challenge ahead.

How can students and colleagues at Abertay University engage with you and your work, or get involved in initiatives related to diversity and inclusion?

The first will be for interested staff to join and remain committed to the activities of our BAME staff society and to also be open to contributing their resource/competencies to EDI initiatives within or outside the University. Students can also join or volunteer in any student society or organisation committed to promoting EDI.