Leitrim student reappointed to ambassador role at Maynooth university
Leitrim's Córa Somers has been reappointed as a Student Ambassador at St Patrick's Pontifical University, Maynooth, where the former St Clare's Comprehensive School student is studying Theology and History.
A Leitrim student has been reappointed as a Student Ambassador at St Patrick’s Pontifical University (SPPU) in Maynooth, where she is continuing to develop her interest in Theology and History while helping prospective students make the transition to university life.
Córa Somers, a former student of St Clare’s Comprehensive School in Manorhamilton, has been reappointed to the role following a university-wide recruitment process.
Now in her third year of the Bachelor of Arts in Theology (BATh) programme, Córa is studying Theology and History at the Co Kildare institution.
The Student Ambassador programme plays an important role in welcoming prospective and incoming students to the university. Ambassadors act as a friendly point of contact for those considering their next step in education, sharing their own experiences and helping new students settle into university life.
Their responsibilities include assisting with orientation activities, providing campus tours and offering practical advice to students making the move from second-level education to third-level study. They also represent the university at events throughout the academic year, giving prospective students an insight into what studying at St Patrick’s Pontifical University involves.
Córa's involvement in the programme has also seen her represent the university at major student recruitment events. In September 2026, she was among the Student Ambassadors representing SPPU at the Higher Options exhibition in Dublin, where students had the opportunity to learn more about courses and the opportunities available at the university.
Speaking about her experience of studying at St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Córa said the BATh programme had allowed her to reach her full potential as a student.
"The BATh programme in SPPU has allowed me to reach my absolute potential as a student. I find studying both Theology and History extremely interesting and enjoyable," she said.
She also highlighted the welcoming atmosphere on campus, pointing to the benefits of smaller lectures, supportive lecturers and the friendships she has developed with fellow students.
"The atmosphere on campus is wonderful, thanks to the small-sized lectures, kind fellow students and our helpful lecturers. Our beautiful campus grounds make it a pleasure to come to class every day," she said.
Córa added that these elements combined to create a strong sense of belonging within the university.
"All this combined creates a warm, welcoming community in SPPU which I feel so lucky to be a part of."
St Patrick’s Pontifical University has a long history in Irish education, having first opened its doors in 1795 as the National Seminary. It became a Pontifical University in 1896 and has since established a particular focus on Theology, Philosophy, Canon Law and related areas.
For Córa, her reappointment provides another opportunity to share her positive experience of third-level education and help others considering following a similar path.
Her achievement is also a source of pride for Leitrim, with the former St Clare’s Comprehensive School student continuing to make her mark at one of Ireland's historic centres of higher education.