Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Donegal Open Day takes place on-campus on Thursday 17 November from 9.30am to 2pm. 1 in 2 Donegal students now choose to study at home at ATU Donegal, with more and more students than ever before remaining in the region to study, rather than leaving for further education.
One such ATU student is Joel Bradley Walsh. A successful sports player in his own right, in both the Gaelic and Soccer scenes, Joel has enjoyed his four years at ATU Donegal, and is hoping to pursue a Professional Masters in Physical Education when he completes the BSc (Hons) in Sports and Exercise with Physical Education at the university.
When Joel was completing his Leaving Certificate, he was like many students and wasn’t quite sure what he wanted to study and decided to do a PLC in Finn Valley College after completing his Leaving Certificate in St. Columba’s College Stranorlar.
Joel commented, “I wasn’t quite ready to make the jump to university when I completed my Leaving Certificate, I was quite young. I decided to study the PLC in Sport at Finn Valley College, and this really helped me decide my degree choice. I had always loved playing sport and studying a degree in the sports discipline was something that really appealed to me. When I completed my PLC, I progressed to the BSc (Hons) in Sports & Exercise at ATU Donegal. As I progressed through my degree, I decided that I wanted to become a PE Teacher and my degree is preparing me for this career. I even did a PE placement in my former school, as part of the degree programme. I am so glad that I chose to study closer to home as I have really enjoyed being able to focus on my own sporting goals, I have loved playing on the university’s Sigerson Cup Team which has been an incredible experience.”
Joel is encouraging prospective students to attend ATU Donegal’s upcoming Open Day, whether you’re a Leaving Certificate student, or considering a return to education. Joel added, “The Open Day gives you a chance to connect with students like myself, and it also gives you a chance to speak with lecturers to find out more about the degree programmes you are interested in. I attended the Open Day when I was making my choices and it really helped me with my decision to study at ATU Donegal.”
During the Open Day event, prospective students can connect with ATU academic and student support staff, attend various talks about the degree programmes available at the Donegal campus, explore campus facilities, and check out the wide range of student supports available at the university.
To pre-register your attendance at this event, visit www.atu.ie/donegalopenday
The future is here.