Orla Gray

Bachelor of Science in Computing in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics

Donegal – Letterkenny

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choosing your course? 

As I grew up with my dad as a computer programmer, I was always interested in computing. In GCSEs I chose to do Digital Technology Programming and loved every second of it, so I began looking for work experiences I could do to ensure that was what I wanted to do and while searching I stumbled upon an online work experience in digital forensics and that really peaked my interest in digital forensics.  

I then researched different options including digital forensics and found it very difficult to find somewhere close to home to study digital forensics. England was the main option until my mum seen on Facebook that ATU offered my course and showed it to me. I then went on holidays in Annagry in Donegal and while there seen a post about campus tours over summer in ATU Letterkenny which I went and done. I loved the vibe in the college immediately and could see myself here, also it was close to home so I could travel back and forth each weekend to see my family as that was one of my main reasons for choosing this course as I wanted to come home for weekends. 

What are your favourite modules on the course?  

I love all the programming modules that are very practical based as that’s where I strive and also Andrea Carlin my lecturer makes the class very enjoyable and is fabulous at helping students when you are stuck on things. 

Is there anything else about the course that you particularly enjoy or find beneficial?  

I find the practical aspects of the course very enjoyable as it’s growing your experience and it’s not dull as sometimes some things you learn can be. You are always stuck in problem solving with your practical classes like in Digital Forensic labs and programming practicals. 

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

The support that you get and you don’t even need any knowledge in computing beforehand as the lecturers make sure to start from basics and go through it slowly so everyone is at the same stage by the end of the semester. 

If you were speaking with a first year student about to start your course, what advice would you give them?  

To just enjoy yourself, don’t stress too much about the classes and if you’re stuck ask the lecturer or fellow classmates for help, they are more than happy to help you. Also, if you are a beginner don’t stress about people being ahead of you. A lot of people don’t have a proper background in computing beforehand but you will get taught from basics. 

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?  

I work part time in the weekends in Hilltown Chippy when I go home and I am in Mayobridge Band at home as a Majorette. 

What are your plans after ATU and any long-term goals you are aiming for?  

I am hoping to get a job after I finish studying and work for a few years, hopefully in Digital Forensics, and after a few years of work go travelling before settling down