Daragh Williams

BSc (Hons) in Health Science and Physical Activity

Sligo

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choose your course:

When applying for the CAO, I didn’t exactly know what I wanted to do. The only thing I knew was that I had a passion for helping people. Being from Sligo, this course was the best fit for me due to commuting, work, and living reasons. I am quite an ambitious person, so choosing this course was good for me because I wasn’t sure whether physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or health promotion was the right path. With a sporting background, I knew that the course would need to be sports-related. This course blends sports with clinical and health elements perfectly. It offers various pathways, and for me, the REPS award and my experience in strength and conditioning were key. I am now an EQF Level 6 Graduate Exercise Specialist through REPS Ireland, thanks to my degree from ATU Sligo and my S&C experience.

What specifically about the course did you particularly enjoy?

I enjoyed many different aspects of the course. In the moment, there were plenty of stressful times, but looking back, it was a great experience, and I learned a lot. I appreciated the hands-on learning in the labs for biology and chemistry. Working with equipment, learning procedures, and understanding testing methods were all valuable lessons. I also enjoyed studying the biomechanics of human movement, exercise physiology, and promoting healthy behaviors. My final year was especially rewarding, with group assignments, exams, MCQs, and placement. It was challenging, with long days, but my placement with Sligo GAA, working under the Head of Strength and Conditioning, was an invaluable experience. It confirmed my career direction, and I would highly recommend students use their placement to explore areas that interest them.

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

This course is perfect for students who aren’t exactly sure what they want to do in life, and that’s okay! The course offers a variety of health modules combined with real-life scenarios, which can lead to careers in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, strength and conditioning, and many more fields. It opens up many doors for you to explore and helps you find what suits you best.

Any favorite modules during your time studying?

I enjoyed modules such as Facilitation, Health Promotion, Health Psychology, Biomechanics of Human Movement, Physical Activity across the Lifespan, Clinical Exercise Prescription, Physical Activity Project Management, and Statistics. These modules shaped my career path, and I’m excited to continue this journey. Presenting to groups and public speaking were initially challenging but became easier towards the end of the course—skills that are now crucial for my career.

What key skills did you learn while studying at ATU Sligo that have influenced your career?

Looking back, I am grateful for how the course was delivered. Instead of being in large lecture halls, the course was split into smaller groups for labs and tutorials, which made it easier to connect with lecturers and fellow students. This setup was not only great for learning but also for forming lifelong friendships.

Can you share some details of your career path or further studies to date?

I am currently studying for a master’s degree in Strength and Conditioning at the University of Salford in Manchester.

What does your current role involve?

The course has a strong practice-based element, helping you develop the skills necessary for leadership roles in the field. The staff are experts in strength and conditioning, often collaborating with professional sports teams and athletes. This wealth of knowledge and experience in elite settings was a major factor in my decision to pursue this course. There are three main modules: Injury Prevention and Performance Measurement, Strength and Conditioning, and Dissertation. Each module is thoroughly explained and includes practical work, such as using equipment from Hawkins Dynamics. I am very excited for what the future holds.

What advice would you share with our current students considering a career in your field?

Volunteer, volunteer, volunteer. You may not realize the importance of opportunities that arise during your course. It is crucial to make connections in this field. If you’re interested in strength and conditioning, the best way to learn is from an experienced coach and then apply that experience to your own practice.

What did you like best about studying at ATU Sligo?

Being from Sligo, I was already familiar with the excellent facilities at ATU Sligo. It was very convenient for commuting, and the library is a great resource for students needing a quiet place to study. The supportive environment, from career guidance to academic writing help, ensures all students’ needs are met.

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

Join clubs, whether it’s GAA, soccer, chess, or even DJing—there’s a club for everyone. For me, it was GAA, and I still keep in touch with my teammates from the fresher’s team. Establishing a healthy routine, whether it’s studying, working, exercising, or socializing, is key. Balancing these can be challenging, but everyone’s routine is different, so find what works for you.