Unsure of what area of science she wanted to study on her return to education, Sarah says common entry allowed her to see all areas before choosing
Sarah Foley is a former student of St Angela's School, Waterford. She returned to education to study science as a common entry course, graduating four years later with BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science. She received the Excellence in Undergraduate Biology Research Award on in May 2018.
Time at WIT
2014-2018
Why did you choose your course in Waterford?
WIT offers a common entry route into science before having to commit to one stream, this allows you to see all areas prior to making the decision. I eventually chose the Applied Biology stream which gave a board range of industry and research related topics and practical skills.
What was your experience?
Returning to education was the best decision I made, it made me realise my love of learning and enjoyment of a challenge.
What advice would you give to students considering your course?
I would advise people to enter through the common entry route, to immerse themselves in all areas of science to help in the decision. Contact the school of science staff for information on the course they are extremely approachable and passionate about their individual field.
What did you do before studying at WIT?
I worked as a store manager in pharmacy.
Had you any feelings of doubt about returning to education? Tell us how you overcame them.
I always wanted to return to education, but it was something I kept putting off. A colleague of mine suggested to me that I should stop putting it off and return to education, this triggered me to put together a plan so I could return to education 12 months later, but gave me time to ensure that it was something I could afford to do.
What advice would you have for students about getting through college?
Get into the work as early in the semester as possible, attend all your lectures and practical’s. Don’t be afraid to ask lecturers/other students for help.
SETU Waterford, Cork Road, Waterford City, 
