A Laois student has been reappointed to a highly sought after role in a top university.

Following a university-wide recruitment process, Emo student Collette Sherlock has been reappointed Student Ambassador in St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Maynooth (SPPU).

Collette is a former student of Scoil Críost Rí, Portlaoise.

Pictured: Collette Sherlock and her fellow student ambassadors

Speaking with the Leinster Express / Laois Live, Ms Sherlock said that it has been a fantastic experience.

"I am in my third and final year at SPPU, and this is my second year as student ambassador," Ms Sherlock explained.

"I had an amazing experience last year and decided to go for it again, I feel so lucky to have the chance to hold the role again," she said.

"I am really glad I chose to study here, the experience has been great."

Ms Sherlock is currently studying a joined degree in English and Theology with Maynooth, and hopes to work as an English and Religion teacher in secondary school.

“The stunning campus is another thing I love; it's great to be able to go on a walk surrounded by nature in my free time. Also having the privilege of living on campus because of the BATh has made my experience even better. 

"You really have the best of both worlds, the north campus is so new and full of light, and the south campus is full of nature and much smaller, you get more one-on-one time with lecturers," she explained.

"Your lecturers actually know your name and face. I am currently living on campus, which is another perk of studying here. Your accommodation is guaranteed if you want it, there is no wondering if you'll find a place," Ms Sherlock said.

"You're close to everything and you're sharing with other theology students, you have the chance to make great friends, it's really good," she said.

Ambassadors are a vital link for incoming students, assisting with orientation activities, providing campus tours and being on hand with advice and recommendations on how best to transition from second level into life at university.

The Student Ambassadors will also assist at university events throughout the year passing on their firsthand experiences of life at St Patrick’s Pontifical University.

While the student is cramming for upcoming exams, she says she still finds the time to balance her work as an ambassador with her studies.

"It can be difficult to balance when all the midterms are due, but the staff we work with are brilliant and they know that our academics are important," she said.

"I know this experience is something I can look back upon fondly. My family are delighted with it," she laughed.

"I'm the eldest of my siblings so I am the first to go to university, my brother is in 5th year in St Mary's CBS in Portlaoise, and our youngest brother is in primary school. They have all been so supportive and a great help to me," Ms Sherlock said.

“The minute I heard of the BATh course in St Patrick's, I instantly knew it was for me. I have had my expectations significantly surpassed since I began studying here. The small class sizes really encourage connections with both my classmates and the lecturers, allowing us to get to know one another.

"Overall, in St Patrick's I continuously grow in a sense of content in my decision of choosing here to spend the next three years," the student finished.

St Patrick’s Pontifical University is located in Maynooth. The town and campus are extensions of each other. As a Pontifical University, St Patrick’s specialises in the study of theology and philosophy at both postgraduate and undergraduate level and related areas, across one campus.

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