‘ Congratulations youhavemadeit’
JUST over 500 students graduated from St. Anegla’s College on Friday.
Three ceremonies took place at the Sligo Park Hotel, with students from 14 courses receiving degrees. St. Angela’s President, Dr. Anne Taheny, said each conferring was an occasion to recognise and celebrate achievement.
She said: “To graduate from college is one of life’s big moments, today is the culmination of what I’m sure has been a challenging and hopefully also a very rewarding experience. I am sure that you are sitting there with a mix of emotions, pride, relief, apprehension, nerves and excitement.
“Over the course of your studies, I know that you had several moments where you doubted yourself. You thought today would never come, that you were never going to pass that exam, get that assignment done, or get through that presentation. Well, congratulations, you have made it.”
She added: “Because of your hard work, a great future awaits you, so well done.”
Among those graduating was Laura Parke, from Clondalkin in Dublin, who is now a qualified Home Economics teacher.
She said the four years she spent at the college were the best of her life. She said: “I got a very good impression of the town while here and I now have lifelong friends from all over the country.
“There were 70 people in my course, but it was very tight- knit despite the size and I’m so happy to see that the majority of us have jobs at the moment.” Laura is currently teaching at St. Joseph’s Secondary School in Rush, Co. Dublin.
Also qualifying as a teacher in Home Economics and Irish was Helen Gorham from Carna, Co. Galway.
She said: “It was a tough four years but the course definitely equipped us for the real world. I learned a lot and made loads of memories.” Helen is now teaching in Drogheda. Clodagh Sloyan from Ballyhaunis grad- uated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Science. She said the practicality of the course benefits her at her current job in Sligo General Hospital.
“It was the interaction with people that I liked the most,” she said.
“It was very hands on, and the fact that the degree is recognised internationally is fantastic.”
Dr. Taheny told the new graduates: “All of you graduating today are receiving NUI, Galway accredited awards giving you a qualification of the highest standing and which is recognised on a global platform.
“You are equipped with the necessary tools to go forward on your journey. As you transition into the next stages of your life, the attitude that you have to both opportunities and challenges is key. An open, positive and sincere attitude will make a huge difference.”
Fourteen students were also recognised with special awards for academic excellence, with special mention given to Anne Marie Kelly who has been awarded the Dr. HH Stewart Medical Scholarship in Intellectual Disability Nursing.
It is the first time there has been a specific Intellectual Disability Nursing category.
Dr. Taheny extended her congrats to all.