Mahfous Karimu is studying Information Technology on SETUs Waterford campus. Originally form Ivory Coast, Mahfous went to school in Ennis Community College, Co. Clare. His journey to college was fairly typical. He applied to the CAO in sixth year and applied for and was offered IT in SETU Waterford.
Beautiful Waterford city
I chose to study in SETU because the course I wanted to do was in SETU Waterford. There were also options in Dublin, but I liked the idea of being in a smaller city like Waterford.
I would definitely recommend Waterford city to anyone who is still choosing where to study - it is a really beautiful city. The college itself also is very big so I’m very happy to be studying here in SETU. If I was to go back in time, I would pick this university again.
Why I chose my course
I chose Information Technology because I’ve been interested in computers since I was young. I used to watch videos about learning how to code and the different coding languages, learning HTML, and YouTube videos on how to create websites. I knew when I was in sixth year that computing is exactly what I wanted to do, and I definitely wouldn’t go back and change it. I’m very happy with my decision.
What I like most about Information Technology
What I love most about my course is the fact that Information Technology is a growing area and growing every single day. Technology is a big part of the society now. After I finish college there will be a lot of jobs in the IT industry, jobs I would find interesting and in companies who are looking for the likes of me and other colleagues of mine on my IT course and other computing courses in SETU.
My ideal job
After I graduate, I hope to get a job in web development or software development.
College life
I love the fact that there is a social area in the students’ union where we can interact with friends and other people. It’s a great place to hang out, even if it’s just playing pool and PlayStation.
I also enjoy the night life a lot as in secondary I didn't experience a lot of it. Living in accommodation with other people has shown how independent I can be and I really like that about college. It is very enjoyable even if it’s also stressful at times!
Clubs and societies
I am playing football with the college and I enjoy it a lot. We have progressed into the quarter finals of the league and the cup which is a big achievement for us - no other 3rd division team in our college has managed to do so!
I am also in the African society. I’m part of the committee and along with four other members we organise events for semester 2. For example, we would do a variety of games or challenges against different colleges like UCD, DCU or TUD. We also organise a sports day, movie days and other activities. It’s a great way to meet new people.
Advice for current leaving certificate students
My advice would be to focus on what you want to do. There is no rush in choosing, college will always be there waiting for you even if you decide to take a year out.
Overall though, I would say that college is a great place to be for education and to make new friends.
Why would you recommend SETU to a leaving cert or FE student?
SETU is a brilliant university, and I would recommend it to anyone who is still undecided on a university – it is one of the newest universities and one of the best in my opinion.
My experience here has been great, and I know that first years will have an even better experience here in the new university. The university has a strong students’ union that also organise events throughout the year. This includes some night events in the nightclub in Waterford known as Factory which offers a great nightlife too.
