Ryan Hilferty

How did you use RPL?

I used the RPEL system for entry to my master’s program. 

Tell us your Recognition of Prior Learning story?

I had just finished my undergraduate degree in Psychiatric nursing. I always felt that exercising is a necessity for improving mental health. I also play a lot of sport and have a massive interest in that field. After researching courses, I decided to go into Sports performance as I have experience within the setting from my own involvement with teams and it would allow me to help others use the correct components of performance both physically and mentally. I came across the RPL when I was enquiring about how I could get into the course, and I was asking staff members about the process itself. The RPEL staff and lecturers within ATU Donegal were very helpful, approachable, and friendly while I was doing this process.

Why was RPL the right fit for you?

RPL helped me use and display my prior involvement and experience within sporting settings to help qualify me to gain entry into the Sports Performance program.  

How has RPL and higher education impacted you? 

RPL and higher education has opened more avenues for me in terms of career opportunities. I’ve gained more knowledge and applied the same in my own sport to benefit performance. It also allowed me to gain experience while completing the course within a high-performance setting.   

How would you describe your experience of the RPL application process? 

It was a very enjoyable experience. I cannot commend the RPL staff and lecturers at ATU Donegal highly enough as they were very helpful, approachable, and friendly throughout the process and it helped me to complete the application and gain entry into the master’s program of my choice. 

What advice would you offer someone looking into RPL in higher education? 

Look into your options on how to gain entry to a course within a different field. Don’t hesitate to contact the staff at ATU Donegal and they will be able to direct you in the best possible way to facilitate your needs as to gaining entry.