Niamh's interest in science and in particular her love for biology in secondary school led to her interest in studying a science course at third level
Niamh McDonnell, past pupil of Blessington Community College in Wicklow, graduated with a BSc Applied Biology in 2018.
What brought you down to Waterford to do the course?
I always had a big interest in science and I loved biology in secondary school so that kind of flared my interest. I was actually in pharmaceutical science in first year and in second year I transferred to applied biology so I was happy I had the option to do that. I realised that I preferred the biology side of science more than the chemistry.
Was there any stand out experiences from your time in Waterford?
I made so many new friends and everyone is so welcoming because everyone is coming in on their own, they want to make friends so it was really great as a whole.
Would you have any advice for students considering the course?
Definitely look into coming to Waterford because you get so much hands-on experience if you’re studying science than you would at any university. The lecturers are so approachable which makes it so much easier as well.
Did you have a placement on your course?
With our course we carried out a project so there’s a lot of independent work as you have to plan your project and other various parts so it makes up for not having a placement. However the level 8 course now includes a 6 month placement in industry in addition to a project which is of huge benefit to students. It allows them to develop their skills and it also gives students relevant work experience.
What type of job can you get from this course?
There are so many different types of job opportunities from this course for example I could go into quality control, research and many more types of jobs.
Interviewed by Ian Bradley at Conferring 2018
SETU Waterford, Cork Road, Waterford City, 
