Sive McDonald

Bachelor of Business (Honours) in Tourism with Event Management

Sligo

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

I did my leaving cert in 2021 when the world was still recovering from the pandemic. I wanted to take a year out and wait for things to go back to ‘normal’ before I started college. I was originally looking at business degrees but was unsure if that was the right choice for me. I have worked in hospitality for many years and have always had a passion for travel, events, and creating memorable experiences for people. I have vast experience as a youth leader and volunteer in Foroige both at local and national levels. I organized various events during my time in Foroige from charity fundraisers to bigger festivals like band on the strand. This helped me discover my love for event planning and coordination. I realised I wanted to pursue a career in an industry that combined my interests. Choosing the Bachelor of Business (Honours) in Tourism and Event Management at ATU was a natural step for me because it offered a perfect balance of business knowledge, tourism expertise, and hands-on event management experience.

What specifically about the course do you particularly enjoy?

One of the things I love most about this course is the variety of subjects it covers. The mix of broader business modules, such as marketing, economics and management, combined with specialised tourism and event modules, makes it a well-rounded and engaging program. Additionally, the work placement element was a highlight for me—I had the opportunity to work in Sardinia, Italy as a resort host for my placement. This gave me invaluable industry experience and connections. I was able to organise and successfully run multiple events as well as gaining important hands-on tourism industry knowledge. I was able to apply all the knowledge I had acquired from the course in a real-world industry setting, allowing me to truly see its importance and impact in practice.

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

The best thing about this course is how well-rounded and career-focused it is. It doesn’t just focus on one area—it combines business, tourism, and event management, giving you a broad skill set that opens many career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in destination marketing, event planning, or hospitality management, the course provides a strong foundation for success in any of the relevant industries.
The supportive learning environment at ATU makes a huge difference. The lecturers are experienced, approachable, and genuinely invested in helping students succeed. Plus, the small class sizes create a great sense of community, making it easy to connect with classmates and lecturers. I commute to and from my home in Mayo daily and I found it very easy to make friends and connections even though I wasn’t staying on campus.
Another major advantage is the practical experience built into the program. From working on real-life events to engaging with industry professionals through trips to different business and attractions. The work placement is a particularly valuable part of the course, as it allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a real industry setting. During my placement as a resort host in Sardinia, I saw firsthand how the concepts we studied—like customer experience, operations, and event coordination—translate into the professional world.

Any favourite modules during your time studying?

I particularly enjoyed the event planning and events project management modules in my second year. As part of these modules, we organized a 5km charity run for St Patricks NS Calry, raising significant funds for the schools sporting equipment. This experience was invaluable because it combined theory with hands-on practice, allowing us to see an event come to life—from initial concept and planning to execution and post-event evaluation. It really reinforced my passion for event management and showed the real-world impact of our work.

What are your favourite parts about student life in ATU?

I find ATU a welcoming and supportive environment where students support each other, and there are so many opportunities to get involved in societies and events. The networking opportunities, whether through guest speakers or industry visits, are also fantastic. And of course, being in a location with such strong ties to tourism and hospitality makes it an ideal place to study this course.

What do you like best about studying in ATU ?

One of the best things about studying in ATU is the flexibility and accessibility it offers. The fact that this course is now a three-year Level 8 degree is a huge advantage, as it allowed me to earn an honours university degree in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional four-year programs. This made it an excellent choice for me as it allowed me to fast-track my third level education and get me into the workforce sooner.
Another great aspect is the ability to study close to home while still receiving a high-quality university education. ATU provides the opportunity to gain a recognised degree without having to relocate, which is a major benefit for myself and other students who want to stay connected to their community, reduce costs, or balance work and study.
Additionally, ATU’s strong industry links, practical learning approach, and supportive lecturers make it a fantastic place to study. The smaller class sizes allow for more one-on-one support, and the real-world experience built into the course ensures we are well-prepared for careers in tourism, events, and business.

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

My advice would be to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Get involved in class discussions, take part in group projects, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—whether that’s networking with industry professionals, joining societies, or gaining work experience.
Time management is also key. The course is engaging but fast-paced, so staying organised with assignments and deadlines will make things much easier. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support—ATU has great lecturers, student services, and a friendly learning environment that will help you succeed.
Finally, make the most of your time at ATU! These years go by quickly, so enjoy the experience, build connections, and gain as much hands-on experience as possible. It will all help you when it comes to your career after graduation.