Female, late twenties, second year Woodwork Teaching Degree.
I left school and the country in the 1980's due to the huge unemployment situation. I had just the Leaving Cert. I spent some years working in England, then two years travelling the world as a backpacker, having all sorts of amazing adventures until the money ran out and I came back to start a new life.
I worked part-time and went to college part-time through an access course. I am very happy at UL and involved with lots of societies. Returning to education has been one of the best things I have done with my life, because I am not going along with the treadmill in the direction of a degree, a career, a mortgage, a husband and some children.
Male, fourth year Equine Science Degree
I have children in University. I studied through distance education and am now in UL doing an equine science degree. In my spare time I build houses and train horses. I enjoy college life and the sports facilities and going set dancing on a Tuesday night with other mature students.
Female, early fifties, finished an Arts Degree
I always wanted to go to college but didn't get the opportunity - there wasn't much money and I was the eldest, so I went to work. The degree has changed my outlook on life, I used to be very focused on the family but now I'm interested in everything that's going on around the world. My confidence has soared and my family think I'm wonderful! I'm considering doing a master's and also looking at job opportunities. I'm still in contact with the people I went to college with as we have a lot in common. I'm full of hope for my future.
Male, mid twenties, second year Woodwork Teaching Degree
I left school after the Inter Certificate and trained as a butcher. I worked at that for a few years and then got involved with the Fire Brigade and left my job to become a part-time fireman. I also travelled a lot and ran a furniture making business.
Female, second year Sports Science Degree
I worked for some years before deciding to return to education. I studied psychology through distance education and continued doing so while studying first year sport science at UL. Also, during this time I coached boxers who were successful in getting through to the European/World Championships.
Male, early thirties, Distance Education Degree
I have worked hard for ten years and done well for myself. I have now embarked on something new and I love the challenge. I was anxious at first always trying to have everything perfect..... but I know now that your best is enough to get by on. It's difficult for my wife as I don't have the free time to help her with the kids as I used to. She's very understanding but also insists on getting space for herself so sometimes my 'study' time involves having one eye on a book and the other on the toddler.
Female, late thirties, Certificate in Women's Studies (Evening)
I am in my late thirties. I am married with three school-going children. I have reached a stage in my life when I want to do something for myself as an individual and the way for me is through education.
When I was younger I did not realise the importance of education. With education comes choice and the more choices you have, the more fulfilling your life is. I started Women's Studies in October of this year and although I had reservations at the beginning, it has turned out to be a very positive experience. For me it is a privilege to do this course, I find it challenging and have met an exceptional group of people, who all realize the potential in returning to education, not only academically, but as how to develop as individuals.
Female, early forties, Access Programme to Part Time Nursing Degree
I have been nursing for twenty years and I love my job. I decided to do the access course for career development mainly and also for personal satisfaction. My two kids are at college also so we now have something in common. I think they look at me differently since I started the course and I'm not sure if they like the changes that have occurred to household routines - before they were so used to me coming in from the hospital and giving them time (and meals). Now I take time for my studies and make demands of all the family. Its not easy but I'm feeling much more fulfilled.
mso@ul.ie
