Three Laois students appointed to esteemed student ambassador roles

Following a university-wide recruitment process, three students from Laois have been appointed Student Ambassadors in St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Maynooth (SPPU).

Isobel Tinkler is a former student of Coláiste Íosgáin, Portarlington, while Collette Sherlock and Caoimhe Sweeney are former students of Scoil Chríost Rí, Portlaoise.

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.

“Even though I knew I wanted to do Theology, St Patrick's Pontifical University offers much more than that," Laois student Isobel Tinkler said On studying at SPPU.

Pictured: Laois university student and student ambassador Isobel Tinkler

"While the main career people normally pursue is teaching, I have met many others who wish to be politicians, prison officers, lecturers and so much more," she said.

"If one has any interest in the pursuit of knowledge, St Patrick's Pontifical University is the way to go. Throughout my time in St Patrick's, I have always been met by such a lovely atmosphere and a community of people always willing to help one another," Ms Tinkler finished.

Student Colette Sherlock  praised the university for their welcoming atmosphere.

“The minute I heard of the BATh (Bachelor of Arts in Theology) course in St Patrick's, I instantly knew it was for me," she said.

Pictured: Colette Sherlock, recently appointed to an ambassador role at St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Maynooth (SPPU).

"I have had my expectations significantly surpassed since I began studying here. Everyone's welcomed with a kind and warm atmosphere that almost feels like a home away from home. The small class sizes really encourage connections with both my classmates and the lecturers, allowing us to get to know one another," said Ms Sherlock.

"There are also many events for students and staff which enhances the great sense of community here. The stunning campus is another thing I love. Also having the privilege of living on campus because of the BATh has made my experience even better. Being able to live with students in my year made it much easier to make friends and takes the pressure of commuting daily," she said.

Fellow Scoil Chríost Rí alumni Caoimhe Sweeney thanked university staff for their helpfulness.

“One of my favourite aspects of St Patrick’s is how helpful the staff are," Ms Sweeney said.

Pictured: Student ambassador Caoimhe Sweeney on campus at St Patrick’s Pontifical University

"I also like how the smaller lectures allow you to establish friends while also getting to know the professors, which you may not be able to do at larger universities. In my opinion, St Patrick’s Pontifical University is one of Ireland's most beautiful places, and I consider myself extremely fortunate to be able to study and be part of this community," she finished.

St Patrick’s Maynooth opened its doors as an educational institution in 1795. In the intervening two centuries, it has established for itself an impressive reputation for scholarship and learning.

Today, as a Pontifical University, St Patrick’s specialises in the study of theology and philosophy at both postgraduate and undergraduate level and related areas, in one of the most beautiful campuses in Ireland.

The Pontifical University completed a brand refresh from St Patrick’s College Maynooth to St Patrick’s Pontifical University in 2021, which is visible across the campus.