Students
CWELL graduating class of 2024
Rebecca Hannan
Class of 2022-2024
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"Someone like me. I was worried about my age - but your ability is not your age!"
What do you get out of CWELL?
"I found myself. That was the most important thing for me"
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I didn’t realize that there would be so much research but it was all worthwhile because I learned an awful lot – especially about inclusion, diversity and equality. I was always involved with my community, but never had the skills. But now I do!"
Regina Sheehan
Class of 2022-2024
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"I was a ‘stay at home’ mom with leaving cert and VTEC qualifications. CWELL enabled me to go out and get back into education at level 7 and to achieve!"
What do you get out of CWELL?
"Well you’re asking me at my graduation – and I’m buzzing!"
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"A lot of topics were covered, which was a good thing. I didn’t realize how much I would put into it. It was a good bit of work involved but with an awful lot of help going through it."
Sarah Power
Class of 2022-2024
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"A person looking for further education who wants to get out there, be seen, be known."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"An amazing (not love related) family. I’ll miss that."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I wasn’t expecting a First Class Honours. I realize that I never knew my own ability."
CWELL graduating class of 2023
Tim O’Connor
Class of 2021-2023
Tell us a little about yourself
"I work on the UL campus with Aramark catering and I have an interest in various community and social groups including The Garryowen Community Development Project, Saint. John's Band, Thomond Nature Project, Art Limerick , Saint Patrick's GAA club and the Social Democrats Party."
Why are you doing CWELL?
"I am doing the CWELL course to gain better knowledge of how to help communities. I would also like to improve my computer, presentation and communication skills and learn how to manage my resources and time better."
Would you recommend the CWELL programme to others?
"Yes, I would recommend CWELL to others. It is a well planned and designed course and has a course of action designed to maximise each students potential."
Clare Dollard
Class of 2021-2023
Tell us a little about yourself
"I was that annoying child who relentlessly asked why? how? when? wrecking my mother’s head as she prepared dinner and worked to keep five children fed, warm and safe. Yet, I rarely voiced those questions at school. I kept my mouth shut because of fear, unworthiness and not fitting in. For a while throughout my life, I lost my curiosity. A combination of events, illness and deaths stuck me in one place - pointlessness. I have a disability called Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.). In the past it would have been top of my list to describe myself. Not Anymore. When I proudly wear my cap & gown on graduation day, I hope to scream – Yes! Yes! I did it. My first ever university qualification at 61 years of age."
Why are you doing CWELL?
"CWELL marries my dual passions of Education and Community. It offered the added bonus of wellness, empowerment, life skills and leadership. I'm living in a new community for the last few years and don’t know my neighbours. I’d like to. Maybe I could organise some events in our community room?"
Would you recommend the CWELL programme to others?
"Yes. I feel I belong there and feel value in my existence, and gratitude to all I’ve met who encouraged me from my first tentative steps to the present day."
Hayley Fitzgerald
Class of 2021-2023
Tell us a little about yourself
"I am a mother to two young children. I am originally from Kileely but live in Moyross for the last ten years. I work in Rehab care. Rehab care delivers health and social care services to communities in Ireland."
Why are you doing CWELL?
"I am doing CWELL as I am very interested in my community and wider communities. I would also like to gain a professional qualification and become an asset to my community. CWELL gives me a sense of belonging within my group. New friendships. The courage to voice my opinion and involve myself in conversations I would have been hesitant to join before."
Would you recommend the CWELL programme to others?
"Yes! 100% as I feel that doing this course, I have learned a lot. I have made friendships within my class which will last a lifetime. I would recommend CWELL to anybody with an interest in communities or even anybody hoping to improve their own personal development, and to let people know that you are never too old to return to education."
Mary Kelly
Class of 2021-2023
Tell us a little about yourself
"I have been living in Southill for the last 38 years. I have 3 sons who I had to rear on my own as my marriage broke up when they were very young. My youngest son “Happy Kelly” was murdered 16 years ago. My other two sons have done well for themselves and have good jobs. They are both settled down with their wives and I have my grandchildren who I adore. My oldest grandson has been with me for the last few years. He is at college at Mary Immaculate Limerick and I am so proud of him. My life is my family."
Why are you doing CWELL?
"I am doing CWELL because I know that my own wellness and life skills are very important and I knew CWELL would give me the chance to build on this. It has also given me the chance to meet up with people from other areas. It has given me a feeling of belonging. The best thing is that we are able to improve ourselves and our community."
Would you recommend the CWELL programme to others?
"Yes. There is something about CWELL, it is so different. Even though it is level 7 you can have a laugh with the people you meet in the group and your voice is heard. It is like a family from all different areas. Believe me, from my heart when I say that all my CWELL classmates supported and were there for me when my fellow classmate and friend Nollie passed away. They all knew that Nollie and I had started CWELL together. “But Nollie, I am going to finish with you and my CWELL family by my side!"
Janet O’Connor
Class of 2021-2023
What kind of person should think of doing CWELL?
"A person who wants to work in communities and wants the opportunity to experience what it is like to be at the receiving end of community based education and groups. A person who can see where improvements could be made. A person with empathy, compassion and a drive for change. A person with inclusion of all community members in mind. A person with good knowledge of social deprivation. A person who wouldn’t be afraid to be a voice for a person."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"I have gained a fantastic community network and continue to expand that. I am gaining skills and knowledge to give back for the community and ways of improving communities and the people within them. I am developing on a professional level and personal level to be the best I can be for me and those I am responsible for. I have built relationships with other people with the same interest."
Tell me something you found out either about yourself, or about the course that you had not expected?
"The day I started I was a bag of nerves, yet excited and ready for what was ahead. I ended up meeting amazing classmates from all different areas and backgrounds, some I knew but not very well. Before I started, I wanted to focus on personal development both professionally and personally. Having completed the course, I realise that I was doubting my own capabilities and I am back on my career path. I was brought up in Southill and was stigmatized with low education, low job ethics and crime. I found it very hard to get to where I am but I never gave up on hope of success in third level education. Starting CWELL has opened so many opportunities such as focusing on my personal development and exploring my positives and negatives and moving forward with positivity. I am going to go forward and apply for a diploma in Drug Addiction next and continue along the chain while giving back to the community with change."
Jeffrey O’Donnell
Class of 2021-2023
What kind of person should think of doing CWELL?
"Someone with a bit of passion towards their community and other communities. Some who wants to learn on how to improve as an individual and in turn can make a more positive impact within their community. Also someone coming from maybe a voluntary background who might need a qualification to gain employment within this sector. And also a kind and caring person."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"A sense of professionalism to go with the experience gained previously for either volunteering or helping out in the community. A level 7 qualification. Also the teaching from some well-regarded lecturers brings confidence to the person when being challenged - like presentations – where fears and insecurities must be overcome. I feel I will be a more rounded individual on completion of the course."
Tell me something you found out either about yourself, or about the course that you had not expected?
"the value of input from members of other communities and how they operate and do things; and that without judgement I can learn from everyone on the course. The help and encouragement from the lecturers is something different from other courses I experienced. I was as well rounded as I thought I was within the community. So much learning to be done and to improve as an individual. I like the way its broken down into easier, more manageable tasks. I like the fact that there is such a course that’s based on my interests within the community, with the emphasis on improving the individual and preparing them to be in the best place to make changes within the community. I found out that I’m not as confident either as I thought prior to starting the course. That’s good to know awareness wise."
CWELL graduating class of 2022
Mduduzi Dube
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"Any person can do this course if they are interested in the topics it covers: Community, Wellness, Empowerment, Leadership and Life Skills. It covers Nutrition, politics, co-operative, care of the elderly, social inclusion, mental health. I am delighted to have a chance to take part in the course as it helps me grow my confidence, grows networking, gaining knowledge, inclusion. The immigration community can also benefit from this course, to learn about Irish community that can help promote integration."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"Knowledge, networking, empowerment, integration, confidence, friends, life skills."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"The therapy aspect changed who I am. Still, it assists me to alleviate stress and anxiety by using a reflective practice method and journal writing techniques. I developed literacy skills. I was so impressed. The Wellness module truly altered my perspective and personality. I flip the coin instantly. It is quite simple in hindsight."
Katelyn Fitzgerald
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"Someone who enjoys and is involved, or would like to be involved, in their community. Someone who would like to broaden their skills and gain some self-confidence. "
What do you get out of CWELL?
"I have found a lot more about myself that I didn’t know. I have an easier time understanding my emotions now. I have made a lot of friends. I am not shy anymore and have gained a lot of confidence – and it’s all thanks to CWELL."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I did not think I’d enjoy it as much as I do. I didn’t think I’d get along with everyone as well as I did. I enjoyed coming every week."
Teresa Gardiner
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"The kind of person to do Cwell, I think, is somebody with an interest in communities and an interest in a lot of everyday life to deal with things."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"Out of Cwell, I have got so far a lot of knowledge how to deal with different kind of people from all walks of life, a lot of skill doing group work which would have been a long time since I have done that as I am out of school 42 years. I’m now able to work in a group, and to be able to stand up in a group and speak, which was a big issue, but I feel much more confident now doing this. Meeting new people from other communities."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"About myself, I found that I have more confidence in taking part in group discussions; I was not expecting the variety of things we are covering on the course. Looking forward to next years modules."
Sarah Hogan
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"I suppose anybody that is interested in taking part in any type of community involvement. Somebody who would like to expand their knowledge and learn about the different roles behind each community setting and what you need to do as a person to be part of it."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"I have learned so much about myself that I have never put much thought into. I have learned to reflect on my personal development, both mentally and physically. I am learning new things with every lecture that I would never have had an interest in before now. Again, the course is so broad and covers so much; it’s amazing! I have grown mentally as a person and upskilled educationally too. I have learned skills that have assisted me in new employment opportunities within my community. I have also gained an amazing peer group. I am so grateful I got the opportunity to do CWELL."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I didn’t expect the course to cover so many different topics and in such a personal way I suppose. It has changed me as a person: the personal development module was an incredible module to start with. It brought our group together on a personal level, but I also opened up and grew personally myself. I also didn’t expect to be able to work so closely with our communities during the course. It has reconnected me with my past community and opened my eyes on how I can give back myself. I am thrilled with each module and I feel like I am definitely more aware of different aspects of society and also more understanding of people in general. I am thoroughly grateful to be a part of the CWELL group."
Stacey Hogan
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"The kind of person that should be doing CWELL is a kind person, a person who cares about what goes on in the community, a person who wants to be a part of the community in a positive way."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"What I get out of CWELL is meeting new people and learning other people’s opinions in different communities, and seeing what needs to be helped and changed. I have got many friendships and learned how to be better for my community. I learned that I would like to continue working in the community. I also learned a lot about myself."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I found out that everyone is going through something and makes us alike we all have a story, and I learned a lot about myself while building my portfolio and how to work in a team. I learned a lot about putting what I’ve done and what I can do into words and on the computer. The first thing I said; ‘Sure I have nothing. I didn’t do anything’. And then my lecturer says ‘NO. You did! My biggest thing is that I always put myself down first, so no one can put me down. I am my biggest critic. I learned not to do that to myself. That’s what I enjoyed most about the whole course. It was the support. If I wanted to email any of those lecturers now, you know I could, and they’d respond."
Helena Kelly
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"Those wanting to learn new skills. Those who take charge and create change in their lives. Those who have pride and love for their communities and want to achieve common goals."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"I did not believe I would gain so much! The personal development… initially, I was sceptical but so proud to see my progress over the short duration in the first semester. The empowerment is insane. I feel confident to educate, advise and support children and parents/adults on nutrition and fitness through play themed gardening events based on sustainable living practices and organic living to tackle chronic illnesses. Women’s welfare and succession are all new areas I am exploring."
What I learned during CWELL?
"Social and personal responsibility, Networking, IT skills, Confidence, Politics, Intergenerational learning through an array of topics related to, but not limited to, health & fitness, social dynamics, political impacts, and support services alike."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"The therapy aspect changed who I am. Still, it assists me to alleviate stress and anxiety by using a reflective practice method and journal writing techniques. I developed literacy skills. I was so impressed. The Wellness module truly altered my perspective and personality. I flip the coin instantly. It is quite simple in hindsight."
Katriona Murphy
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"I suppose from my point of view, I left school very young and thought I could never go back to education simply because I didn’t have a Junior or Leaving Cert. But CWELL takes into account Life Experience and Volunteer work that people have behind them, which gives so much more opportunities to people like me."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"SUPPORT is a huge one, Eileen and Maura have been amazing to us, and our tutors have been fantastic. We were lucky to be able to meet up and do the course in a class together for a few months before stronger restrictions were made, and we really enjoyed it and became a “family” as cheesy as that sounds 🙂 But I can’t stress enough how brilliant all our tutors have been so far; they are always there to help and support us with every question and encourage us to do our best."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"My own capability! I hadn’t realised how much potential we all have if only we are given the support and encouragement to achieve it."
Phonsie O’Connell
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"I was the person with the years of experience at my place of work, homeless /care industry. But I lacked that important ‘’piece of paper’’. As a plus this course was tailormade for someone like me. The modules are doable and practical and dovetail with my experience. So I believe there are lots more like me out there and could use this pathway through 3rd Level education."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"Everything! A greater sense of self worth. The joy of passing exams and doing well. New real friendships. A sense of belonging. The first 2 modules appeared to complement each other. The rediscovering talents that I had used or lost in the module around personal development. While the module around self-care felt like a welcome haven at times and also gave me the opportunity to jot down things that were bothering me in the weekly journal."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"My ability to learn, with people and newfound friends. The expanse and variety in the course modules. For a university course, the atmosphere was a lot more relaxed and also encouraging in its nature. Community learners and Community workers were just great to work and learn together. And the dancing was absolutely brilliant! When I first met up with my fellow students I thought they were amazing, they still are. I believe the group just gel together somehow. Also I can put my experience to good use, without feeling that I’m the boring mature student. I’ve learnt I can do this."
Meagan O’Halloran
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"Anyone that has an interest in personal development or community development. CWELL gives a great and diverse learning opportunity to meet the needs of any educational background."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"Throughout CWELL you are going to first learn about personal development and being able to be a better you so you can help those in your community. Once that’s explored, you will learn about helping the community and those around you. It’s more a of a ‘help yourself before you help others’ approach, because if you can’t help yourself, how can you help others?"
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"During the two years I have learned so much, throughout the first semester, I didn’t know what to expect. I’ve learned my worth. I’ve learned how to become more comfortable with public speaking and to be more confident in what I do. During our politics class, which I will be honest, I’ve never had any interest in, I’ve learned that politics can actually be interesting thanks to our tutor. I’ve now been reading more about what’s going on. Learning more about the community from the inside-out and actually being able to start a project proposal and carry it out has been the most practical thing I’ve learned. I can’t express everything I’ve learning throughout my time in CWELL, it’s a very supportive course and I’m so happy I have done it."
Hayley Purcell
Class of 2020-2022
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"I think that CWELL is probably one of the most diverse courses that the University has to offer because, unlike and set subject course, it covers so much and so much diversity, so my answer to that question would be any kind of person who just wants to get back into education or anyone who has any interest in developing a love for education because I strongly believe CWELL can provide that."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"There is hundreds of different ways that I could answer this question because CWELL is so much than just a course to me; it’s giving me a passion to not just have a job but to push myself in every way to build a career and from CWELL i have also confirmed my need to be a community worker I see so many opportunities that CWELL has to offer to help me complete this achievement and I am also so much more confident now not just in my education but in everyday life I believe that the personal development module is one I will forever be able to use."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"Ok, so again, there is so many things about CWELL that I didn’t expect. I think the main one for me is how diverse it is; I really wasn’t expecting to come away with so much from some amazing lecturers. I can also say that I wasn’t expecting to have such a passion for it. I thought I’d just do it n get through, but every week I look forward to getting on seeing what’s next.. although, with COVID, it’s been harder not been in class, I feel we still have great connection with our tutors, and I have to mention Eileen and Maura because no matter what struggle or problem any of us have big or small they are always so quick with a solution they are amazing."
CWELL graduating class of 2021
Amanda Clifford
Class of 2019-2021
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"Anyone who cares about their community & wants to make a difference."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"You get to meet people from different communities, hear their stories & help them find their voice."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I found out that I miss working in a group, discovering each other’s strength & abilities. We can do a project together that will help our community even in these uncertain times."
CWELL graduating class of 2020
Jackie Condon
Class of 2018-2020
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"A person who is or would like to be actively involved in their community and become more aware of self-care and optimum health and well-being in communities."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"You get the chance to accquire new skills and learn how to maximize your own effectiveness as a contributor in your community and society as a whole. It’s enjoyable and you get to initiate projects in groups and make great friends."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I learned how voting and elections work and the relevance of local and national politics and how it pertains to community work as a whole. The concept of community consultation was demonstrated to our groups and I had not heard of this before. With covid I learned how to adapt to IT platforms to continue our classes and maintain connectivity with all."
Christy Mallard
Class of 2018-2020
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"I think CWELL is for somebody who is passionate about their community."
What do you get out of CWELL?
"You get to experience Further education, you are also strengthening skills and learning new ones."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I learned that pushing through will bring positive results and increase your own strength and self-belief in what can be achieved in any community."
Xing Yun Gao
Class of 2018-2020
What kind of a person should think of doing CWELL?
"I think CWELL is for people who cares about the community and society"
What do you get out of CWELL?
"For me it gave me the opportunity to get to know people more quickly being from a different culture and familiarize myself with community work."
Tell me something you found out – either about yourself, or about the course – that you were not expecting?
"I found it great to have the opportunity to be taught by such professionals. I gained experience of group work and learned about peoples’ different life experiences."