Erica Visocchi

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Home Economics

St Angelas

Tell us about yourself and what led you to choose your course.

I am in Year 3 of the Bachelor of Arts in Home Economics in St Angelas campus. I am originally from Dublin, where I went to secondary school. I always wanted to be a teacher but couldn’t decide what subject to teach. Initially, I chose to do Agricultural Science for the Leaving Cert, but we didn’t have the numbers, so the class didn’t go ahead. I did Home Economics for Junior Cert, and my mam suggested I choose it instead of Agricultural Science as it is a good subject for life skills. I loved Home Economics as a subject, and I loved my Home Economics teacher, which made me want to study Home Economics at university. I am delighted I was accepted into the programme. After I complete my course, I will pursue my master’s in education. 

What do you enjoy about the course?

I enjoy the fact that the course is not fully exam based. I have never been good at studying for exams, but I am good at completing assignments and researching topics. We only have one or two exams per semester. This has really eased off a lot of stress for me.

What is the best thing about the course that you think new applicants should know?

The class size is small, and you will get to know your classmates and your lecturers. I think that it’s a lot nicer and more personal than bigger universities, where you don’t have as much support from your lecturers.

Any favourite modules during your time studying?

I enjoyed craft wellbeing, where we crocheted a granny square bag! I am now obsessed with crochet and asked for a lot of wool for Christmas! I also enjoyed sustainable households as we had labs making sustainable body scrubs and cleaning products. I also enjoy my textiles module every year, making pillowcases, quilts and tops. 

What are your favourite parts about student life at ATU?

I was a class rep and a member of the student union previously, and I am now a student ambassador, where you can get vouchers for helping. I like that you can make a difference for others in the university and that the university can help me in return. I also love our student bar in Sligo, The Brewery, where you can go after classes and catch up with your friends. 

What do you like best about studying at ATU?

I love how ATU are constantly trying to improve student life, and that student voice is coming to the centre. When I was in 1st year, there were only a few buses going out to St Angela’s, but now in 3rd year, there are many more buses. 

What advice would you give a first-year student starting in ATU?

Not to worry too much about fitting in in 1st year, which I know is easier said than done. I did struggle in 1st year making friends, but I found my group in 2nd year of university. Everyone is going through the same thing in 1st year – it may feel like you’re alone, but you’re not. It is always important to reach out for help if you need it.