Graduate of the BSc (Hons) in Public Health and Health Promotion, Siobhán Howe from Waterford, is delighted she decided to take the leap back to university.
Back to the books
“Originally when I finished school, I decided to go to college in Donegal to study law and criminal justice. However, after a year I learned that the course was not for me and I withdrew.” Siobhán explained.
Siobhán returned to Waterford and changed her career path: “I decided to do a PLC in healthcare which I thoroughly enjoyed. This led me to take the leap and to go back to university. I was so lucky that SETU was my local university, and offered so many courses. The one that stood out to me was the BSc (Hons) in Public Health and Health Promotion. Going back to college was a big decision to make because I was 23 and this would be my second time starting an undergraduate course.”
Work experience
What attracted Siobhán to the course was its practical nature. “I really enjoyed the mix of practical work and the hands-on experience of work placement. In third year I was incredibly lucky to do my placement with the Special Olympics which opened so many doors for me, and helped me realise what I could do after I finished college,” Siobhán commented.
Connections
Siobhán was delighted with the connections she made while studying at SETU. “Studying at SETU has been the best four years of my life. The friendships I’ve made with my class mates are ones that I will cherish."
"The lecturers always went above and beyond for us. If you had a question on any assignment or course content, are always happy to help. The community at SETU is second to none!” Siobhán praised.
Extra support
Siobhán drew on the support of SETU’s Disability Office during her studies: “Being dyslexic is definitely not a reason to be scared to attend university. The support that is offered in college is exceptional! It was an easy process to register with the disability office. They covered my needs which provided proof reading on assignments and extra time on exams. I always found exams stressful but having those supports in place really helped me.”
Peer 2 Peer programme
Making the most of her time at SETU, Siobhán volunteered her time with the Peer2Peer mentoring programme. She explained: “During my final year I had the pleasure of completing the Senior Mentor programme. This programme helps first year students to settle into college, and the senior mentor role allowed me to take on more responsibility by providing first year students with a workshop that would be of benefit to them. This allowed me to build my confidence and create new relationships with SETU staff and students.”
Plan for the future
In discussing her plans for the future, Siobhán commented: “My time at SETU flew by and I am delighted to have graduated. My plan for the future is bright with the help of SETU. I currently work for a company called Active Connections, who I actually handed my CV to at a career fair organised by the careers office.”
Siobhán concluded, “If you are deciding to go back to college as a mature student, I recommend doing it at SETU. There are no limits on what you can do. Even though I have just graduated, my time at SETU is not done just yet - I will be returning in September begin my PhD.”
