Student Case Study

Caoimhe Deeney, who studied the Foundation Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management at NWRC, is now working front of house at the award-winning Maldron Hotel in Butcher Street, as a receptionist.

Caoimhe was an A-Level student at St Cecilia’s College achieving straight A grades in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism and ICT.

She originally considered moving away to study, however when her mum fell ill, Caoimhe decided to stay home and continue her studies with the Foundation Degree at NWRC.

She said: “I got great advice from Gavin in the Careers Academy at NWRC and I enrolled on the course. I loved the course, it was tough going, but everything in it was pushing me forward towards a career in tourism and that kept me motivated.

“I have dyslexia, but it was not diagnosed until I was 16, but I was able to access specialist support from the Learning Link at NWRC.”

During her time at NWRC Caoimhe went on work placement to Abbey Bed & Breakfast.

“I loved being at the B&B,” she said. “I got on-the-job experience and later they were able to provide me with a reference.”

After her time at the College Caoimhe progressed straight into Year 2 of a Degree at Ulster University Coleraine studying Travel and Tourism. She has now completed her degree and has been working at the Maldron Hotel ever since.

She said: “I’m delighted to have got my dream job in the Maldron Hotel and I see it as a great stepping stone within the hotel industry. The skills I leaned during my course at NWRC were a big factor in my securing employment.

“I’d encourage others to consider the course, this is a fantastic industry to be in, showcasing the town we live in and meeting new people all the time. It’s a dream job. It’s busy, but so rewarding.”