James has found work in a life sciences company and says because the course work is so relevant it wasn’t very difficult to get into the workforce
Good Counsel College, New Ross past pupil, James Cullen from Foulksmills, Co Wexford graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science.
Time at WIT
2014-2018
What brought you down to Waterford?
Well I’m originally from Wexford so I knew that WIT is one of the best in the country with potential to be a technological university and it focuses on general skills as well as lectures.
Why did you choose your course?
My choice of course was based on a keen interest in biological science that I wanted to further develop. I chose WIT because it well known for its strong focus on the practical aspects of science as well as being theory based.
What are you doing now that the course is over?
I’m currently working in the food industry in a life sciences company in Clonmel. So that’s very relevant to what we did in college so it wasn’t very difficult to get out into the workforce.
Is there any stand out moments from your time in Waterford?
I’d say some of the best moments were during the project. We have project work that takes place for 10 weeks and that’s your first bit of independent research that lets you out on your own to do some independent work without being babysitted by supervisors.
Would you have any advice for students looking at this course?
My advice would be, be prepared for hard work and don’t think that college is going to be easy.
With a college like WIT which is very focused on practical work you get your practical skills which makes the transition into the industry easier. It's necessary to be passionate about science and to be willing to put in the hard work and time because the hard work pays off and is very rewarding.
What was your experience?
My time at WIT was a very positive experience. The friendly, inclusive culture allowed for positive interaction between students and staff that facilitated a comfortable and valuable environment for learning.
How did your experience at WIT help get you to where you are now?
The close relationships and helpfulness of the staff at WIT have opened many doors and opportunities from collaborations between the Institute and industry/research partners.
My studies at WIT have provided me with a range of very versatile and transferrable skills, preparing me for career in industry or research in the life sciences area.
Interviewed by Ian Bradley at Conferring 2018
SETU Waterford, Cork Road, Waterford City, 
