We love hearing from former students who’ve gone on to successful careers in the industry they’ve studied at NWRC.
Like Caoimhe Deeney, who studied the Foundation Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management at NWRC, and is now working front of house at the award winning Maldron Hotel in Butcher Street, as a receptionist.
Caoimhe was an A-Level student at St Cecilia’s College achieving straight A grades in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism and ICT.
She originally considered moving away to study, however when her mum fell ill, Caoimhe decided to stay home and continue her studies with the Foundation Degree at NWRC.
She said: “I got great advice from Gavin in the Careers Academy at NWRC and I enrolled on the course. I loved the course, it was tough going, but everything in it was pushing me forward towards a career in tourism and that kept me motivated.
“I have dyslexia, but it was diagnosed until I was 16 and I was able to access support from the Learning Link at NWRC.”
During her time at NWRC Caoimhe went on work placement to Abbey B & B.
“I loved being at the B&B,” she said. “I got on-the-job experience and later they were able to provide me with a reference.”
After her time at NWRC Caoimhe progressed to Year 2 of a degree at UU Coleraine studying Travel and Tourism. She’s now completed her degree and began working in the Maldron ten weeks ago.
She said: “I’m delighted to have got my job in the Maldron Hotel and I see it as a great stepping stone for my job in the hotel industry. The skills I learned during my course at NWRC were a big factor in my securing employment.
“I’d encourage others to consider the course, this is a fantastic industry to be in, showcasing the town we live in and meeting new people all the time. It’s a dream job. It’s busy, but so rewarding.”
For more information on the Foundation degree at NWRC go to www.nwrc.ac.uk/apply
