Mandy Freehill studied Office Administration and Technology at Cavan Institute. Here is Mandy's story:

"I decided I wanted to leave the retail sector. I felt I needed a new challenge and a change in direction. I enjoyed working in an office environment prior to retail but knew that I would need to upskill. I applied for the Office Administration and Technology course at Cavan Institute.

As a mature student, I can’t recommend Cavan Institute highly enough. One of the best decisions I made recently was returning to full time education. The staff and tutors were amazing in their support and encouragement on my journey back to education. I am delighted I took the plunge and went back to college.

Work experience is a very useful part of the course and can be in a local business. I was lucky enough to take part in the Erasmus programme where I spent my two weeks work experience in Slovenia. I worked in a company which was involved in the development of local and regional projects. My job was to review documents and reports that were translated into English and check and correct grammar errors. I found it very beneficial as it was my first taste of “real office work” for a long time.

I would strongly advise and encourage anyone, especially mature people or people who have been out of education for a while to go back and give it a go! There are many supports available to you in Cavan Institute and a dedicated team of staff and teachers on hand to guide and help you on your way. As a result of graduating from the Office Administration and Technology course, I am now working as a secretary at a local school."

We wish you continued success Mandy.