Lynda Latus, MSc, Interactive Media, UCC

Lynda Latus (40), returned to college in 2003 to study computing and software in Tralee Institute of Technology. This was a five year full time course. Lynda then went on to do a masters in interactive media in University College Cork which took one year.

Prior to returning to college Lynda had been working in an administration role in Tralee and had done a two year course in communications in Edinburagh.

Lynda was eager to get a degree. "I really wanted to get a degree, I was interested in computers so this course suited me and I really enjoyed it", Lynda told The Cork Independent. 

Lynda then completed a six month internship at MOZY.

"Unfortunately I couldn't stay on because it was an unpaid role so I then went on to work with McAfee before getting a job as  a business analyst at Abtran last December," Lynda explained.

Lynda is really enjoying her new career, "it's nice to be able to apply what I learned in college to my every day role and it's very challenging and there are plenty of opportunities to progress within the company".

Lynda's return to college was an extremely positive experience. "I got the opportunity to be a teenager again!" she joked.

"Going back to college as an adult, you have a better idea of what you want and what you're doing. You're more focused and you work harder. I was 16 when I first went to college so I appreciated it a lot more this time around".

Although Lynda enjoyed her time in college she said that she was "terrified" going back after years in the workforce.

"I was afraid I would be too old but it was never an issue. There were a few other mature students in the class and I got on well with all the younger students too", Lynda added.  

She highly recommends returning to college to get a degree and improve your job prospects. "If I could stay in education for the rest of my life, I would!" she joked.