Claire encourages people in the healthcare and education sector to consider Masters after feeling revitalised both professionally and personally
Claire Bulfin is a past pupil of Ursuline Convent, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, came to WIT to study the Masters of Arts in Advanced Facilitation Skills for Promoting Health and Well being.
Time at WIT
2017-2018
Why did you choose your course/ to study at WIT/ study in Waterford?
The course content appealed to me as a Nurse and Midwife I wanted to broaden my learning.
What was your experience?
I loved returning to study. As a mature student it is a privilege to continue to learn. I couldn't speak highly enough of the support I received from the lecturers at WIT.
Can you recall your feeling when finding out you were offered a place in WIT
Nervous, excited, apprehensive.
What advice would you give to students considering your course?
I would encourage anyone who is working with people in the healthcare and education sector to consider this course. I discovered a huge amount about myself, and now feel I can relate to people much better.
I was feeling a lack of enthusiasm about my work and career. Studying this course has revitalised me, both in my personal and professional life. It has given me a hunger to continue on learning particularly in the area of reflective practice.
Where are you currently working? What position do you currently hold?
Midwife/Lactation Consultant
How has your studies at WIT helped you to get where you are today?
Presentation and facilitation skills. Sharpened my knowledge in the area 'how people learn', how to bring out the best in people, encouraging people to take control, own their emotions.
How did your experience at WIT help get you to where you are now?
I am a lot more confident with public speaking and facilitating group learning in small and 1:1 groups. I know more about myself, how I learn and this has a huge impact on reflecting how others learn too.
I have learned to accept my dyslexia as a positive aspect to myself as I have developed skills in other areas as a result. I have developed the skills of reflection, and this has led to deeper learning about myself and others.
Tell us whatever you want that we haven't asked about
I was class rep for my course.
I was able to avail of literacy support during the course. I have dyslexia, the support received as massive in terms of confidence in submitting assignments that were grammatically correct. Literacy support is available, it can be hard to ask for this but it is so worthwhile.
Charlie, in the literacy centre was so supportive and encouraged me to keep going when then thesis looked daunting.
Living arrangements
I live in Waterford with my husband, and 4 young children. I have a busy life juggling 3 jobs and a busy home life.
What is Waterford like as a city for college social life?
My social life consists of coffee mornings with my friends, their support was huge, especially when assignments were due and I was doubting myself.
SETU Waterford, Cork Road, Waterford City, 
