Marie Mc Mullan

When we asked what her main reason was for undertaking a part-time course at ATU Donegal, Marie said that she always had a goal of gaining a third-level qualification. When she completed school, Marie went straight into working full-time and caring for her young family and never got the chance to further her education.

As a mother of four (two children and two stepchildren), Marie recognised the importance of education, and while her goal for returning to education was of a personal nature, she believed in setting a good example for her children and demonstrating to them, the opportunities that education can have on an individual.

Over 5 years ago, Marie applied for her first course, a part-time Bachelor of Business (Honours) at the ATU Letterkenny Campus. Marie completed this course and achieved a 1:1 result. In Year-2 of this course, Marie started working in a company that offered financial services as part of its business portfolio, an area that Marie didn’t have much experience in but was interested in learning more about.

This motivated Marie to apply for the Higher Diploma in Finance and Technology (FinTech) at ATU Donegal which is delivered 100% online and part-time, once again suiting Marie’s busy life of working and caring for her family.

Marie says ‘I completed two level 8 degrees in six years and in both, I achieved good results with first class honours (1:1). These qualifications have opened many doors and opportunities for me in my career. I took the time to invest in myself and my education, and it has paid off’.

When Marie started her flexible learning journey, she was excited but also didn’t know what to expect. Her experience exceeded all those expectations. ‘The support and guidance from lecturers, the academic team, and fellow classmates is second to none. They helped and supported me through tough times, and I have not only gained two qualifications in Business and FinTech but also gained lifelong friends’.

When asked if Marie had any advice for someone considering a part-time course, Marie says ‘just go for it. Whether it’s a short course, a full degree or a Masters, the amount of knowledge, experience, and opportunities you gain is truly worth it. You’re only betting against yourself, and an education will carry you through your life’. Marie is now hoping to pursue a level 9 Master’s qualification in Business. 

Learn more about the Higher Diploma in FinTech