Newry student Ailill Breffni, who graduated this week from the University of Ulster, is hoping that his industrial placement with Microsoft will stand to him.

Ailill, who studied Business Studies with Computing at the Magee campus, was awarded an honours degree, second class, upper division at Ulster’s summer graduation ceremonies in the Millennium Forum in Derry.

He also received a Diploma in Industrial Studies for his third year placement with Microsoft in Dublin and, in recognition of his performance on work placement, Ailil received the Microsoft Customer and Partner Experience Award.

Ailill says he learnt a lot during the placement and getting the award rounded off a great year.

“I really enjoyed the placement and was delighted to receive the Customer and Partner Experience award as it is usually only presented to permanent employees.”

Commenting on Ailill’s success, course director Daniel Mulvenna said it highlighted how the course’s excellent placement opportunities could enhance a student’s study experience, develop their potential and contribute significantly towards their employability skills.

"This has been absolutely brilliant for Ailill’s CV. The Department of International Business extend their congratulations to Ailill on his success."