My story: 'We were very lucky, we got experience as part of the course'

A major factor in David McMullin's choice of college was that it offered a six-month work placement in third year. More than that, when he finished his four-year degree this summer, he walked into a three-month work experience position.

The 22-year-old from Cornelscourt, Co Dublin, crossed the Liffey to Dublin City University (DCU) for the BEng in electronic engineering.

The course and college suited for a number of reasons. The former pupil of Colaiste Eoin, Stillorgan, didn't pursue study options on the southside because "I just wanted college to be a completely new experience".

He was good at maths and knew he liked computing, and thought engineering would combine both those interests.

DCU's common entry into engineering appealed because specialisation could be put off until second year and he felt he needed that time.

"It is very early when you are doing the Leaving Cert to know exactly what you want to do. I liked the idea of one year and then a decision."

David is clear about the importance of the work placement: "All jobs want people with experience. How are you meant to get that experience in the first place?

"We were very lucky, we got experience as part of the course. Even if it doesn't help you get a job, it gets you contacts."

It wasn't all work at DCU. Among the societies and clubs that David joined was the Juggling Society, now known as Circus Arts.


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