My MIC Story - Read Alannah's Story

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Hi! My name is Alannah and I’m from Tipperary. I’m now in my final year at MIC Thurles where I’m studying to become a Maths and Gaeilge post-primary teacher. Before coming to MIC, I attended Nenagh College. I live just an hour away from the campus so commuting to college has been a dream.

Why did you choose MIC?

I chose MIC because it offered the perfect subject combination for me! The small class sizes also greatly appealed to me. The campus is easily accessible and there was a very homely feel to the college when I first arrived.

Has it been easy to make new friends?

Making friends at MIC Thurles has been a very positive experience for me. Everyone is very approachable and from the moment you walk in the door, you are greeted with a friendly and positive atmosphere. Everyone at MIC Thurles is working towards the same goal of becoming a post-primary teacher and we all come together to help and support each other on our journey.

Tell us about your experience here at MIC Thurles

I’ve benefitted from studying at MIC Thurles in many ways.  I’ve availed of student academic supports in preparation for exams, and engaging with these supports has been really beneficial to my overall academic journey.

I have also had the opportunity to join new clubs and societies here at MIC Thurles and push myself outside of my comfort zone. Over the past three years, I’ve been a member of a jiving society, competed in tag rugby competitions, and even gave ladies soccer my best effort!

Being a student here at MIC Thurles has really helped to build my independence and further my confidence. While you’re supported by lecturers, there’s an encouragement to develop your own learning patterns and explore your individual teaching style.

What do you love about your programme and studying at MIC Thurles?

MIC has opened so many doors for me! Throughout Covid-19 and through remote learning, I was given a fantastic opportunity to partake in a tuition programme called Go Figure. This gave me the opportunity to work with classmates while tutoring Maths to leaving certificate migrant students.

I was also very fortunate to win a scholarship to New York in third year and it was great to represent my college abroad and participate in a course on Human Rights and Global Citizenship.

One of the great things about MIC Thurles is that all of the lecturers here are very supportive and are available for additional queries and advice outside of normal lecture times.

What do you love about college life?

There’s a great social aspect to college life. There’s always an opportunity to join a new club or society and RAG (Raising and Giving) Week is a great chance to give back to the community, as well as enjoy an extra healthy social life. After the first few weeks of initial excitement, it’s great to find the balance of academia and enjoying the buzz of college life. My favourite event of the year is the annual college ball. It’s a lovely opportunity to dress up and there’s a lovely sense of community at the event.

What do you do when lectures are done for the day?

In my spare time, I love to swim! Each semester, the local swimming pool in Thurles teams up with the college to provide great student deals. I also enjoy spending time with my friends.

What would you like to do after your graduate?

I have big plans for myself after I graduate! I definitely see myself travelling abroad and teaching. I also see myself returning to MIC to complete a master’s in the near future.

What advice would you give to anyone considering studying at MIC?

I would really encourage everyone to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and take every opportunity to try something new while studying at MIC. I would also say to enjoy every moment at MIC – you wouldn’t believe how fast time flies by.