Mark McGinn - Cooperating Teacher

What UL means to me!

In September 2009, I made the life changing decision to return to education as a mature student, where I was lucky enough to gain place in the B.Tech Materials and Architectural Technology Education programme. My background was in the construction industry and while the thoughts of starting University at 25 years of age was daunting, I quickly found my feet and settled in to my new way of life.

I had many highlights during my 4 years in UL, however for me the school placement aspect of the degree was my favourite experience. While the hours were long and the work load was heavy, it allowed me to see a clear vision of the career that was waiting for me upon graduation. During my school placements I worked side by side with teachers of all subject areas and had the opportunity to learn from their extensive experience, both inside and outside of the classroom. I gained a lot of experience during this time and it left me feeling excited for the future.

Upon graduating in 2013, I was lucky enough to immediately gain employment in a brand new school, just 25 minutes from home. This was a dream come true for me. UL are cited as having the most successful school placement programme in Ireland and I can understand why.

Now, just 5 years later I am currently the longest serving Construction Studies teacher in my school. Things have gone full circle as now, I am the person who welcomes school placement students into my classroom, to nurture and guide them through their own placement experience.

The decision to return to education and more importantly choose UL has changed my life. I have fond memories of my time spent in Limerick and I am grateful for the care, guidance and dedication afforded to me by the staff of UL.

Choose UL, you won’t regret it!

Mark McGinn

Construction Studies and DCG Teacher