After nearly nine years of study at SETU, Dr Noel Connors, who graduated with a PhD having started on a level 7 course knows SETU inside out.
"There have been too many people along the way to pinpoint and suggest why 'that person' was the reason for my current place; it was my engagement with all that made it such an incredible time." SETU graduate, Dr Noel Connors
Noel Connors is a past pupil of De la Salle Waterford and studied at SETU as an undergraduate business student, he completed his MBS and spent four years working on his PhD before graduating. His first year in college saw him being called up to the Waterford senior hurling team. Here he discusses his educational journey and his love for the camaraderie and community of SETU.
Noel's lasting memories of SETU
SETU boasts a reputable Business faculty, with leading academics in the field; whilst it also facilitated my life beyond the classroom. Overall, my time at SETU has been an incredibly personal journey. All the staff within the University enabled me to progress from undergraduate to postgraduate and then finally onto a doctorate. There was a very homely and caring connection to the place. A real sense that people wanted to see you succeed; reaching your full potential - being your personal best.
A sense of relief
Getting a place at SETU after my Leaving Certificate was certainly satisfying, perhaps even a sense of relief. I recognised this from the open evening, events and other engagements with the institute in advance of coming here. Maybe it is the small classrooms, the open door policy, being from Waterford, and knowing people in the college whilst also maintaining some sense of stability with my other commitments.
Advice to students choosing a course
Go with your gut, you should gain a sense of community once you walk in the door of a college. And so, it is important; maybe even the leading reason to select a course - base it on your interest and passion. I would advise against course selection and college choice because of friends. If you are happy in your course most things will organically fall into place. A job is for the next 40 years (give or take), so going with your heart rather than your head is a nice approach.
Business and lecturing
I set up my own business just under two years ago, and within the last 12 months, I have also been fortunate to have lectured within the Institute.
Forever indebted
Nearly nine years of study within the University has been the central reason for my current position. I will be forever indebted to SETU for allowing me to reach my full potential; it has offered me skills and knowledge which has seen me work with some of the largest sporting bodies within Ireland. Travel to some of the world’s leading cities, but also become a part of the academy. Presenting my research at the most recognisable conferences nationally and internationally - something that I am looking forward to continuing.
Sense of togetherness and community
Similar to the above, my journey and place would certainly be much different without the guidance and support from all at SETU. The people - from the academic staff, admin staff, the porters, the IT department and everyone in between have made this a memorable experience. It is hard to believe the sense of togetherness and community demonstrated daily by all, there are people within such that I have become great friends with. There have been too many people along the way to pinpoint and suggest why 'that person' was the reason for my current place; it was my engagement with all that made it such an incredible time.
