A new chapter in education

Pat Mulvihill, Kerry College, Listowel Campus

I returned to education a few years ago to undertake a VTOS course, having been impressed by the courses while attending an open day. I needed a new structure in my life, a new focus, having spent too many years stuck in a routine. The decision to come to Listowel and attend Kerry College in Church Street, as it was known then, was a decision I have never regretted. I will never forget the words my communications tutor Kathleen Nolan told my first class: “education is a life-long process”. How true she was. I have made friends with fellow students, tutors and staff alike.

Like any new venture, in this case, our campus in Clieveragh, we meet new people. During my time at the college, I have made friends with my classmates. The word community and its ethos is a critical element which embodies what Kerry College, Listowel Campus is all about. All students and staff are, if you like, a community, working together in a friendly and safe environment to better themselves academically and socially. The college is clean and inviting and is a safe environment for the students.

I am entering a new semester if you like, as is the college, now known as Kerry College, Listowel Campus, which is currently based in Clieveragh. It’s a new dawn for education and for students. There are many positives that the new campus provides. The most positive aspect is that the campus is geared toward adults compared to the campus on Church Street. There is a great buzz and vibe around the place now. Learning, with the aid of our brilliant teaching staff, is more inclusive. By the end of the college year, we will hopefully achieve the academic results to match.

My own personal experiences of the new campus are positive. This academic year I am availing of the excellent student support provided by the college, which has helped me with many assignments thus far. As is the case with all students that need support. All the tutors put their students first, which is not surprising. I can vouch for that, even though I probably tested their patience at times. “Oh no, here comes Pat again,”go the cries. But seriously, they are excellent, which is a very positive aspect of life in college.

There will be teething problems, and that’s only natural given it’s all new to everyone, from staff to students. Still, as our community, we learn and better ourselves with each other’s help. The college has ambitious plans for the campus, which will only help to enhance future students attending the college. Overall a very positive experience, and I am delighted to be a Kerry College, Listowel Campus student.