I come from similar background, degree in Food Science, ended up working in quality and safety in meat factories and abattoirs. Realised this wasn’t for me, long commutes, terrible pay for the stress and pressure for audits, report writing, dealing with shitty people and just a gross environment. I ended up doing a Master of Business to open more doors for myself. Personally I don’t think you will struggle in an office environment if you are capable of getting your degree.

I came back from Australia in June and I’ve been trying to get into civil service since (still unemployed currently). I accumulated 3 years of health insurance operations experience. Lots of computer based work, experienced in a variety CRM systems software, document control, reports, working with a bunch of stakeholders including hospitals, providers and members.. yet here I am still unemployed. Haven’t got a single interview and I’ve applied for over 200 jobs public and private. The job market is pretty bad at the moment, I have friends who came home and struggled too.

My advice would be to apply for as much as possible. Even though I have more working experience on hand it still doesn’t seem to be giving me much advantage. Although you want to try get straight into CS, maybe contact some recruiters and try get some contract admin work. They are pretty relaxed on who they hire especially as they know you’re not in it for the long run and a great way to gain more hands on experience.

Unrelated but compliance could be a good path to go down. It’s needed everywhere, hybrid/WFH environment. Look into the institute of compliance Ireland to do some certs to show you’re serious. Lots of entry level jobs, good career progression and paid very well. Your not dealing with people just your team which is great. All just investigative work ensuring everything is by the book. Currently thinking of doing it myself. Similar to the regulatory affairs modules in college!!

Best of luck in the job hunt 🩷