Donegal student’s FE course leads to Biomedical Science degree

Patrick Cunnea, a 20‑year‑old from The Frosses, has progressed from a two‑year eBusiness and Digital Marketing programme at Donegal College of Further Education and Training to the second year of a Biomedical Science degree at ATU.

After completing his Leaving Cert, Cunnea’s school career guidance teacher recommended the Further Education and Training Service (now Donegal College) programme, which he attended in Donegal Town. He earned a QQI Level 5 qualification, gaining Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) credentials, ICDL certification and experience in website creation, digital marketing and team projects.

Cunnea said the two‑year course gave him confidence and new IT skills, describing it as a “refreshing change of pace” from the Leaving Cert. He highlighted the mixed‑age learning environment, flexible assignment deadlines and supportive tutors as key factors in his personal growth.

Guidance counsellor Deirdre McLoone helped Cunnea clarify his ambition to study Biomedical Science, leading him to enrol at ATU. He now credits the further education experience for preparing him for university study.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Marija Rusaka / Pexels.