English
Gaeilge
Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choosing your course?
I originally chose to do law, and while it was something I was intrigued by, the lifestyle of office work was not really for me, so I decided to make a change. I have a passion for all sports and enjoy working closely with people in a team environment. This course had a nice balance of practical and non-practical modules, which was both beneficial and enjoyable. I felt this was a course that I was going to want to study rather than something that would feel like a chore, which always makes things easier.
What are your favourite modules on the course?
Exercise Physiology and Exercise Prescription would be my two favourites. I am fascinated by how everything works in the body, how to manipulate it positively, and how it impacts our ability to exercise and perform.
Is there anything else about your course that you particularly enjoy or find beneficial? e.g. work placements, practical projects, etc.
There’s a good mix of different types of assignments on this course, including MCQs, practical assignments, lab books, essays, and exams. I found that exams were not always something that correctly portrayed my knowledge, but being able to gain marks through other areas always helped take the pressure off during exam season. Something I am also looking forward to is the work placement in Semester 2 of final year. Getting an insight into how you can apply your knowledge in a work environment is an intriguing prospect.
If you were speaking with a first-year student about to start your course, what advice would you give them?
Don’t be thrown off by first year. Particularly if you are coming from the North of Ireland and studying A-Levels, you may not have sat a maths or science exam since your GCSEs. There is a lot of science covered in first year, including chemistry, biology, and biomechanics. This is what I found the hardest year since leaving school, as students coming from the Leaving Certificate seemed to have a head start! Practising past papers and getting grinds if needed is definitely something I would advise.
If you are involved in sport, volunteering, working, or have other passions you pursue outside of your academic life, can you tell us about that? Especially mention any teams, clubs, or awards.
I am lucky enough to have been playing Gaelic football with Fermanagh LGFA for the last few years, as well as with Aodh Ruadh Ballyshannon. Being able to play football with ATU has brought me on massively as a player, as you get to play with fantastic players and, in particular, county players from counties such as Mayo, Galway, and Kerry.
What are your plans after ATU and any long-term goals you are aiming for?
I would like to complete a master’s in something performance-related, although I haven’t fully decided yet! I am a qualified fitness instructor and personal trainer through this course, and I would like to continue working closely with people and helping them get the best out of themselves.