Advice from Shane, BEng Civil Graduate- Pick something you like, go to college and experience it, you will make friends for life, and you will get a job out of it too.
Name: Shane O’Connell
Course Studied: Beng in Civil Engineering Level 7
Year of Graduation: 2015
What did you do before studying at SETU?
I attended Cashel Community School in Tipperary
What motivated you to take up study?
I wanted to experience the college life, I wanted a good job and a good degree. I wasn’t happy with just the leaving cert.
Why did you choose your course/ to study at WIT/ study in Waterford?
I had an interest in all things construction and drawings. I had a cousin who studied Civil Engineering in SETU and now he has his own business in San Francisco. It is a great place to study.
What advice would you give to students considering your course?
Its not an easy course to complete. Put in the effort with regards to college and study, ask the lecturers if you are unsure of anything, that’s what they are there for. They will help you get there if they see the effort you are putting in.
What was the highlight of the course you studied?
Learning CAD and BIM. Im on CAD now and to have the head start and to have it on the CV was a real help.
What's your advice to someone considering studying at third level?
Go for it, enjoy it, make sure you do something you enjoy.
Since Graduating
When and where was your first job after graduating?
O’Dwyer Steel in Dundrum as a steel detailer
Where are you currently working? What position do you currently hold?
I am still in Dundrum as an agricultural steel detailer.
How has your studies at SETU helped you to get where you are today?
It’s the reason I have the job today, without the experience I got in SETU I wouldn’t be where I am today.
What advice would you give to those unsure of college or of what course to pick?
Pick something you like, go to college and experience it, you will make friends for life, and you will get a job out of it too.