Matthew Hutnik

English and Psychology

Sligo

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choose your course:

After finishing school in 2011, I applied to do Social Care in ATU Sligo but deferred the course as I didn’t feel it was the right fit for me. I then went on to work in Web Design, Retail and Office Management. At age 24 I felt it was time to go back to education. I was always interested in teaching and in both English and Psychology as subjects so when I saw the course had started in ATU Sligo I knew straight away it was the one for me.

What about the course did you particularly enjoy?

For me, I thoroughly enjoyed the learning environment. Third level approaches to teaching and learning were such a refreshing change from other forms of education in my past. I enjoyed the flexibility in choosing topics for assignments and being able to direct your own learning. I also really enjoyed the relationships I built with my classmates who were a great source of support throughout the programme and continue to be to this day.

What is the best thing about the course that new applicants should know?

The course being both Arts based in the English strand and Science based in the Psychology strand provides you with a really varied skillset and diverse research skills. By the time I graduated I was able to conduct qualitative and quantitative research as well as present at academic conferences and events. I felt really prepared for further study after the degree at Master’s level and gained so may skills in writing, analysis and critical thinking which I use every day in my academic and secular life.

Any favourite modules during your time studying?

From the English strand I liked studying the Wider World Literature and English Research Seminar modules. From the Psychology strand I loved studying Abnormal Psychology and Psychological Therapy modules.

What key skills did you learn while studying at ATU that have influenced your career?

As I mentioned, I learned a lot of research, writing and thinking skills. I also learned a lot from my lecturers by observing them teach us. I knew that I wanted to go into teaching in some form after I graduated so this was always something I paid close attention to. Now that I work as an Adult and Community Education Teacher, I am so glad of the time I got to spend in the company of experienced adult educators who inspired me.

Can you share some details of your career path to date?

After graduating in 2021, I availed of the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance scheme through which I started my business, Atlas Education. I began teaching a variety of Adult Education classes and facilitating Community Education workshops. These included English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Literacy and Numeracy, Digital Skills, Academic Mentoring and CV and Job Interview Skills. I collaborate on projects with Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB) and the Sligo LEADER Project as well as various community groups in Sligo. I have also returned to ATU at various points to deliver guest lectures as well as participate in Careers Days and Information Days regarding the English and Psychology programme.

What does your current role involve?

My current role involves working as an Adult and Community Education Teacher. My work is quite diverse and varied which I love. Currently, I’m teaching Digital Skills to various community groups, working with Community Employment Scheme participants teaching academic writing and referencing, teaching a QQI Level 5 Peer Mentoring course and working on my Master’s thesis.

What advice would you share with our current students considering a career in your field?

I would advise them to work hard during their degree programme – it’s not always easy but it pays off in the long run. For further study, the challenges you may face getting to grips with academic conventions and research skills will stand to you going forward and you will be well prepared for Master’s level. Regarding teaching, the organisational skills you learn, assignments you do and the example of the programme’s teaching staff will go a long way in helping you to make a success of your teaching career.

What did you like best about studying at ATU?

I enjoyed that I was able to study topics I loved close to home and with a supportive cohort of students and teaching staff. The university supports you after you have graduated and always look for ways to assist you or to involve you in the programme going forward.

What advice would you give a first-year student starting in ATU Sligo?

I would tell them that there will be challenges but to put in the work from the beginning. Of course, enjoy your time at university, but attending class and doing the independent study and learning required isn’t optional if you want to flourish in the programme. Develop a solid foundation in both English and Psychology in your first year and this will make the following two years much more manageable!