Undergraduate Student Profiles

Niamh Talbot
1st year BATh (2009-2010)

After completing my first year as a student of St Patrick’s College, Maynooth I can honestly say what a great place it is to study.  As I am studying the Theology and Arts course I have experienced what it’s like to be a part of both St Pat’s and NUI Maynooth.

When I first started, both colleges could not have been more welcoming and helpful. St Pat’s and NUIM provide a great range of subjects to study. St Patrick’s College also helps one cope with the transition from secondary to third level with ease by providing the students with all the help and information they require. Theology is an extremely interesting field of study and the approach to it by the different modules set out by the college provides one with the opportunity to experience Theology at its best.

Colm O’ Rourke
1st Year BATh (2009 – 2010)

Someone recently reminded me of the phrase that “Time doesn’t fly by, it evaporates”, and it is this phrase that comes to mind when I reflect on my first year here at St Patrick’s College.  It really doesn’t seem that long ago when I arrived on my first day knotted with both nerves and curiosity before a crowd of unfamiliar faces. However, very quickly the unfamiliar faces became my friends and the feeling of nerves was totally taken away. St Patrick’s College is one that evokes a homely feel and the friendliness of both students and staff adds to the fantastic atmosphere within the college. Within the friendly environs of St Patrick’s my transition from second to third level education was made very easily.

For a very long time I wanted to study Theology at third level but it has proven better than I could ever imagine it would be, and so diverse, covering many topics and issues. Dealing with issues such as world religions, scriptures, conditions to go to war, revelation or the death penalty, every aspect of Theology has simply put me in awe. I whole heartedly recommend St Patrick’s College to anyone, it is a place where you will learn so much and have so much fun amongst people of all ages and backgrounds.

Kevin Glennon (mature student)
3rd Year BTh (2010-2011)

Coming to study in St Pats I really didn’t know what to expect. Third level education was a daunting prospect but one which I was determined to see out. On the first day we were shown photos of past graduates and told that in three years time this would be us, something at the time I very much doubted!  My fears, it turns out, were greatly exaggerated.  With the familial atmosphere and academic support, I took little time in adjusting and learning to enjoy and savour every moment which has passed here in Maynooth.  The diversity of students and beautiful campus grounds puts St Pats in a league of its own in my opinion, and truly is a life-enriching experience for anyone considering exploring the Christian faith through academia.  Apart from the academic side, I have been fortunate to travel to three different continents with the Maynooth Mission Outreach, an experience which has challenged and nurtured my own faith and taught me to see things from a different perspective.  Whatever one’s reason for studying theology, it gives great insight into the world in which we live, as well as being a personal journey of self-exploration.  The sense of satisfaction and array of possibilities that come with studying here are testament to what a fantastic place it is

Richard Flanagan
2nd BATh (2009-2010)

I am a going into my third and final year at St Patrick’s College, Maynooth.  Upon choosing this course in first year, I was apprehensive as to what it might entail, however, it was the best decision I have ever made. Not only is the course enjoyable, it is also interesting and opens many opportunities for one to develop, make friends and enjoy college life at the same time. The varied core subjects; Moral, Scripture and Systematic Theology cover all aspects of Christianity, and have helped to shape and form my growing faith and understanding of my own religion. I would recommend this course to anyone who is interested in the Christian religion or someone who wishes to further their knowledge of the Christian faith itself. Through the superb quality of the lecturers and the fantastic facilities that are available you will not be disappointed.

Ryan McCabe
2nd BATh (2009-2010)

My first day at St. Pat's was similar to my first day at school as my heart strained to escape from my chest and something kept telling me I couldn’t do this. However, I was determined to make an effort and give college life a chance. By my third day I was laughing at how I had felt before. At St Pat's the transition from school life to college life could not have been made simpler. The first year students had been welcomed into the college with open arms and experienced a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

As time went on I found myself becoming more attached to the college, and now I see it as a home from home, as new friends greet you with a smile in every corridor, and the staff and other students will go out of their way to lend a hand if ever needed. In St Pat's you are treated as an individual, not just as a group. As I was leaving Maynooth for the summer a few weeks ago I missed it before I had left the town boundaries, and have looked forward to beginning third year in September ever since.

Kathleen Denvir
3rd BATh (2009-2010)

I consider my three years spent in St Patrick’s College as among the most fundamental of my educational career.  Being given the chance to be a student in one of Ireland’s most welcoming and inspiring colleges has allowed me to develop upon both my personal and spiritual growth. St Patrick’s has created for me so many new and lifelong friendships, as well as helping me achieve the ultimate goal of studying Theology; being drawn closer to God. Although I may have left St Patrick’s…for now…my fascination with Theology coupled with a deep enrichment of faith will always remain, even after the academic knowledge is forgotten and the memories have faded. St Patrick’s will always hold many fond and precious memories for me.

Sarah Seoige
3rd BATh (2009-2010)

I am very proud to say that I have recently completed my three years of study on the BATh programme studying Theology and Irish.  Although Irish has a very central role in my life, my real growth, personal development and understanding of the meaning of life came through my association and my learning that I obtained from studying Theology at St Patrick’s Pontifical.

I must state however that it was not all plain sailing from the academic point of view, as there were many times that I felt overwhelmed from the work. However, it was at times like this that both the teaching staff and the office staff showed what being human is all about; because no matter how overwhelmed one felt, there was always a listening ear, a strong shoulder, a friendly smile, but most importantly, a wise word that kept one on the road to achieving their goal. No problem was ever too big, too small or too silly.

My experience at the Pontifical was truly a home away from home experience and a wonderful journey that I would take again in a heartbeat.  Therefore, if University is the next stepping-stone for you, I would strongly recommend that you study at St Patrick’s Pontifical University, as I am sure it will be a decision you will never look back on.