'I hope I inspire others to believe in themselves', 71 year old SETU graduate shares her 

A recent graduate of South East Technological University (SETU) has said returning to education as an older person was an immensely rewarding experience, and one she would encourage others to consider.

71-year-old Yvonne Murtagh lives in Kilmacthomas County Waterford, having moved to the area from Dublin when she retired.

After a busy working life, she soon found herself in need of a way to connect with people again, which prompted Yvonne to join a local community group that she says gave her a renewed sense of purpose and inclusion.

“After 45 years of working and caring for my family, I felt a little lost when I retired and struggled to fill my days.

"In search of a new sense of purpose, I joined the Kilmacthomas Women’s Group, where I was warmly welcomed. It has been a godsend, bringing wonderful friendships, meaningful activities, and many new experiences into my life,” Yvonne said.

It was through the connections she made in the Kilmacthomas Women’s Group that Yvonne was offered a place on the Higher Certificate in Arts in Community Education and Development programme at SETU.

At first, she was apprehensive but Yvonne quickly immersed herself in university life.

“I was very nervous before I started because I didn’t have a good experience in school, and I was worried that I would struggle to keep up with younger students, but from the minute I walked through the door I was made feel really welcome and I loved being part of the SETU community.

"The support from my classmates and lecturers was incredible. We had a group Whatsapp, as well as ‘study buddies’, and we met once a week. We’ve all kept in touch,” Yvonne said.

Yvonne also believes the degree helped her grow in confidence and tap into her strengths, which she believes will help her excel in her role as secretary of the Kilmacthomas Women’s Group.

“It brought out my skills in the areas of inclusivity, conflict resolution and engaging with people. The course really taught me how to listen. I particularly enjoyed the modules that focused on social policy and how systems work,” she said.

Yvonne was extremely proud to graduate at SETU’s recent conferring ceremony, and had an "amazing day" of it.

“My family had been so supportive of my educational journey, so it was very special to have them with me for conferring.

"My son and two grandchildren travelled from Kildare to the event, and the minute I put on the cap and gown I thought ‘I’ve done this.’ The whole experience really made me feel part of something special,” Yvonne said.

Yvonne believes her story is an example of how it’s never too late to return to education, she said, adding that the journey, "has shown me that we can continue learning and growing at any age."

"I hope I inspire others to believe in themselves because, no matter their age, one brave first step can open the door to a whole new future."