They’re meeting a real person, breaking down barriers, and changing their perspectives
Due to the success of the course and building connections in Maynooth University, I’ve been invited into the college to speak to Social Work and Education students. They usually have very little or no experience of Travellers and meeting me and hearing about my experience is eye opening for them. They’re meeting a real person, breaking down barriers, and changing their perspectives of the community that were formed by negative images portrayed in the media. I hope this will help them to see the individual in front of them and not stereotype the community in their work.
At the moment I’m doing a full-time Level 5 QQI Business Studies course, and I also facilitate an education group of local women from the community. I really enjoy it – it’s a mixture between youth work and tutoring. In the future I’d like to work in adult education and do a degree in this area or education studies.
I know I want better for me, better for my family, and for other people
If you want to go back and study, don’t be afraid. Don’t put it off and allow yourself to keep making excuses, just do it now. You’ll regret it if you don’t. Worry about tomorrow when it comes. Education has given me a lot, I know I want better for me, better for my family, and for other people. There is more to life than old Traveller traditions and when you get a taste for it, you’ll want more. It’s good to mix and to meet new people. You will always be you and be a Traveller no matter where you go or what you do. Education or a job won’t change your identity, it will help you to find out who you are and what you’re capable of.
We hope that sharing Donna’s positive experience of FET will encourage others to explore their own learning options.
For more information on your education and training options visit www.onestepup.ie or contact AONTAS on our Freephone Helpline on 1800 303 669.
