Hi Everyone!! My name is Endurance Kalabor. I'm 22 and I am studying Law & Accounting. I'm from Drogheda - which is in Louth, not Dublin for anyone wondering. I've been a MAP Ambassador since first year and I've loved every bit of it. I'm really excited to be a Head Ambassador this year and meet all of you!! After spending time here, Maynooth has definitely become one of my favourite places to be, especially when I'm volunteering with the Access Office or training for trampoline competitions with MU Trampoline Club. My tip for you as a final year is to try everything!! And remember this phrase “all you need is 5 seconds of bravery”. Someone said this to me last year when I was faced with an amazing opportunity that was outside my comfort zone. I listened and now I go by this phrase! If ye have any questions regarding commuting, Clubs & Socs, going on placement or even being a MAP Ambassador, feel free to ask me, I'll be more than happy to answer them!! I can't wait to meet all of ye! Endurance Kalabor
Hi, my name is Kendra and I’m from Dublin. I’m currently studying to be a primary school teacher with the Froebel department in Maynooth. Something interesting (and also quite embarrassing) about me is that I never learned how to ride a bike and so here I am at 20 years old still unable to cycle. My favourite memory from launchpad was the get lost challenge. I was in a group with other girls doing the same course as me, so it was lovely to get to know them before officially starting the academic year. I also made friends with the other people in my group who I’m still friends with today. Launchpad helped me made friends who I know will be friends for life and I’m very grateful to have had that experience. Kendra Ní Néill
Hi! My name is Megan Quinn Murphy. I am 19 years old, Dublin born raised in Laois. Final year English and Media student. Maynooth has become home since I moved here for University. I would love to live here in the future for good. I love coffee, I'm not the same without my coffee and Nintendo switch in hand. My fav memories are the rooms in the evening when Gavin plays the trumpet Megan Quinn Murphy
My name is Aini Mohamud, I am a mature student and am doing Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Chemistry MH210. my tip for the coming first years and what saved me when it came to exams: Always attend your lectures ( they are the basis for your labs, tutorials and exams). Aini Mohamud
Hi all! My name is Annalena, and I'm one of your Head Ambassadors for Launchpad 2020. I've just finished my BSc. in Psychology and this is my third (and sadly last) year as a MAP Ambassador. I came to college through both the HEAR and DARE routes, and MAP has given me so much support and opportunities throughout my 4 years at Maynooth. From being part of Launchpad every year, to participating in a Story Exchange Programme in Mountjoy Prison - being part of the MAP family has rewarded me with so many invaluable experiences. When I’m not flat out studying or taking part in MAP activities I spend my time listening to true crime podcasts and taking care of my rescue chickens. invaluable experiences. When I’m not flat out studying or taking part in MAP activities I spend my time listening to true crime podcasts and taking care of my rescue chickens. Annalena Dressler
Hi everyone, Bianca here. I have just graduated from my Masters in law and sadly this is my last launchpad. I would describe myself as having a bubbly personality and I am very competitive. I love rugby and my weakness is cheesecake. Bianca Paun
Hi I'm Caroline! I'm on the mature end of the student spectrum and a mum of 4. I've just completed a Bachelor of Social Science and am progressing to a hDip in Further Education, although I'm still not quite sure what I want to be when I grow up! Returning to education is possibly the most positive decision I've ever made. Caroline Morrin
Hi! My name is Conor Keating. I am 21 years old and I am in first year going into second Accounting and Finance. If I was to give first year one tip it would be to enjoy your time here. Simply because, any university is about finding a balance between academic work and having fun / social side, finding a balance is key. Conor Keating
Hi, my name is Craig Smith and I am from county Waterford (The best one!) I am studying BA Nua Ghaeilge and History Something Interesting about me: I narrowly missed a terrorist attack in Brussels by 3 days. Craig MacGabhann
Hi there! My name is Emily and I’m a Biomedical Science student going into my fourth year. I can still remember my first day in college like it was yesterday, I was super nervous and didn’t know anyone coming in. Despite being a little scared and shy, I met a lot of friendly and approachable people that were just as nervous as myself, in fact one of the people I met on Day 1 is still my best friend three years later! What surprised me the most when I first came here was how welcoming both the staff and the students were. Some of the lecturers are so sweet and have been very accommodating to my mental health issues when I need help. My favourite place on campus would probably be the library, and I know that sounds like such a nerd thing, but they have a Starbucks downstairs so it’s the perfect spot to do your assignments and then take coffee breaks with your friends. Emily Hulsebosch
Hi my name is Emma McLoughlin. I am 22 years old and I am studying BSocSc in Social Policy and Sociology. My tip for first years would be: You might not find your lifelong college friends within the first week or month of college , but you will. Give it time! My favourite memory was waking up on the first morning of college and looking out the window at Maynooth town. Maynooth University had been my dream university since visiting in transition year. I remember being so happy and excited to start college! Emma McLoughlin
Hi! My name is Erika Savage, and I’m a Go-To Ambassador this year for Launchpad! I’m 20 years old (I know I’m such a baby lol), and I’ve just finished my BA in Psychology and Criminology. I’ll be back in Maynooth in September to start my MSc in Psychology, and I’m hoping to go into the field of Forensic Psychology. I’m from Dublin, and have commuted to college for the past three years. I became a MAP Ambassador in my first year of college, and I’ve been involved with the MAP office ever since! Erika Savage
Hey! My name is Fabian and I’m going into my 4th year of Law (LLB). I’m a Go-To Ambassador for this year’s Launchpad. I hope that people will be able to come to me with any problems or queries that they may have, and I’m happy to help in any way that I can. I came to Maynooth through the DARE entry route, and I was even privileged enough to be the DARE representative for the Access Society, throughout the last academic year. For the upcoming year, I am the Access Liaison Officer, which means that I will be the link between the Access Office and the society. I hope that you all enjoy your Launchpad experience, and it would be great to see as many of you as possible getting involved with us during your time here! Fabian Macken
Hi everyone! I’m Faith O’Neill, Events Manager for the Access Society. I came into college through both the HEAR and DARE routes. I’m a second year Law and Criminology student from Kilkenny, so if anyone has any questions about the course, or anything in general, ask away! My favourite memory from Access is my first AGM as this was when I realised that this group of people were the most accepting people I have ever Hi everyone! I’m Faith O’Neill, Events Manager for the Access Society. I came into college through both the HEAR and DARE routes. I’m a second year Law and Criminology student from Kilkenny, so if anyone has any questions about the course, or anything in general, ask away! My favourite memory from Access is my first AGM as this was when I realised that this group of people were the most accepting people I have ever Hi everyone! I’m Faith O’Neill, Events Manager for the Access Society. I came into college through both the HEAR and DARE routes. Faith O’Neill
Hello! My name is Gary, I’m 21 years old and I will be one of your go-to ambassadors this year for launchpad. I am currently going into my 2nd Year of my masters and have been in the college for 5 years now so I know quite a bit about it if you ever need to ask me something then feel free! I live in Dublin and have been commuting to Maynooth each year via the train One of my favourite memories about college is being a part of the Maynooth Access society last year meeting lovely new people and overall having great craic on nights out with them all! Gary Rock
Hey! I’m Gavin; I’m a Science student, DARE Student and also a Head Ambassador for this year’s Launchpad! Launchpad is one of the most important parts of the year for me. Getting the opportunity to introduce new students to the wonderful world of Maynooth is something I treasure. Working on Launchpad has also allowed me to meet some of the most wonderful people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. These people have become my closest friends and they feel just like family to me. This year as part of Launchpad I’m working on quite a large number of events so you’ll probably run into me a couple of times in different sessions, be that the Science information talk where we’ll be giving students an inside look into what life is like for a Science student, or the Musical Interest hangout where we’ll just be chilling out talking all things music! Speaking of music, I’ve been playing Trombone for nine years and currently play with the Maynooth based St. Mary’s Brass and Reed Band, as well as the City of Waterford Gavin Fanning
Hi! My name is Iqura Naseem. I am 21 and a final year in law and Accounting. My tip for first years it to get involved in college, you don’t want to be remembering all the studying you did! My favourite memory is the photobooth from last year. It was just so much fun and we took so many pictures. Iqura Naseem
Hey, my name is James Martowirono and I'm from Dublin. I have just graduated from my law degree this year and I will be starting my masters in September. I entered college through the hear scheme and attended launchpad as a student in 2017 and have been an ambassador ever since. James Martowirono
My name is Jennifer Deane-King. I am a very mature student. I am going into my third and final year in the BA Psychology (MH106) course. My top tips are that it is fine to be out of your comfort zone. Connect with people and make friends. Check Moodle daily and remember not to panic as things get achieved bit by bit over time. My favourite memory is that lovely feeling of belonging when walking through the campus. Jennifer Deane-King
My name is Jennifer Keane, I’m 21 and I’m from Mayo. This is my first year being a MAP ambassador and I can’t wait for launchpad to get started. I am going into my final year of the LLB programme in Maynooth and I came through the DARE route. Jennifer Keane
Hi ! My name is jessie ! I am a final year anthropology and business student ! I am a local to Maynooth. I feel lucky to have this fantastic university right on my door step. I have made so many wonderful friends and memories along the way !! My favourite launchpad memory is staying up all night chatting to my roommates who have become my oldest friends here in Maynooth Jessica Gerardine McMahon
Hi! I'm Katelynn, I'm a final year L.L.B law student. Besides law I love Jane Austin and all things Disney. This is my second year being at launchpad. When I'm not studying, I love to catch up with my friends or re-watch the little mermaid. Katelynn Sullivan
Hey guys, my name is Lucy and I’m a wee country gal from Donegal. I’m in my final year of music and geography through arts. I came to college through HEAR and DARE and this will be my 3rd launchpad. I am also the first day contact rep for the access society, so if you want a cuppa and chats, I’m your gal!! Hey guys, my name is Lucy and I’m a wee country gal from Donegal. I’m in my final year of music and geography through arts. I came to college through HEAR and DARE and this will be my 3rd launchpad. I am also the first day contact rep for the access society, so if you want a cuppa and chats, I’m your gal!! Hey guys, my name is Lucy and I’m a wee country gal from Donegal. I’m in my final year of music and geography through arts. I came to college through HEAR and DARE and this will be my 3rd launchpad. I am also the first day contact rep for the access society, so if you want a cuppa and chats, I’m your gal!! My favourite memory of launchpad would be doing the high school musical classic ‘Breaking Free’ Lucy Parke
Hiya I’m Maia. I’m going into my Final year of LLB Law! I am also DARE Rep this year for the access soc! I am from Donegal work in Ireland’s best lighthouse! I am super interested in surfing and I am Cardi B’s biggest fan. I’m super excited to see you all at this year’s launchpad and at Access soc events Maia Nyhan
Hi, my name is Muireann and I am from Wicklow. I am in my 3rd year of Computer Science and Software Engineering (CSSE). I originally went into college through arts but transferred to CSSE. I transferred because in second semester of the 3rd year you are given the opportunity to go out on placement. Outside of Computer Science I love to play the piano and flute. I have completed all my grades in the piano and now play it for fun. Muireann Carroll
Hi my name is Natalia Otrebska. I am 20 years old going into 4th year of biomedical science. My tip for you as 1st years is to enjoy the 3/4 years they will spend here because college is a life period where every person grows educationally, socially and personally, so not one day of this period is ever wasted. My best memory is a collection of all memories I made with my closest college friends, be it on a normal daily basis or on special days like fresher's week or Christmas day. Natalia Otrebska
Hi Everyone! My name is Niamh Donnelly and I am one of your head ambassadors this year. I came into college through the DARE route and I’m going into my final year of the LLB Program. I am your secretary for the access society (so do join) and I’m so excited to welcome you all to Maynooth University and make you feel at home here! There is absolutely no doubt that I will grossly embarrass myself throughout launchpad so stay tuned. Niamh Donnelly
Hey everyone! I’m Nicole & I’m one of the Launchpad Coordinators this year! I am so delighted to welcome you all to Maynooth University and to the Maynooth Access Programme (MAP). I’m from Donegal and Maynooth is definitely a home away from home for me, I am a 2020 Graduate (yup the Class of Covid-19) from BA Irish & Geography and I have started my Masters in Secondary Teaching. I've been involved in multiple different roles in Societies, the Students’ Union, MU Ambassadors, Orientation Leaders and, of course, MAP so do feel free to reach out to me if you’re unsure on how you can get involved and make the most of your years at MU. My top tip is to try as many new things as you can – it’s the best way to meet people and have some craic but it also helps you figure out what you’re passionate about and you learn so much about yourself when you step outside your comfort zone! Nicole Carr
Hey! My name is Olamide. I’m 20 years old and live in Carlow. I’ve just finished a placement year and I’m about to go into my final year of my BCL Law and Business degree. As a MAP Ambassador I’ve volunteered with the Access Office where I have taken part in many events and programmes such as Launchpad, The Shadowing programme and Open days. Outside of college, I love watching my all-time favourite show Criminal Minds. Olamide Yusuff
I’m Paul and I’m a second-year student studying Geography and History. I came to Maynooth University from Youthreach in Wexford with a distinction in LCA and before seeking my undergrad, I was a student on the Think about Teaching foundation course in Turn to Teaching, which is a part of access here in Maynooth. I’m really looking forward to discussing with students, present and future about the importance of access routes to higher education and from being a TTT ambassador, I loved working and associating with others and I’m especially looking forward to getting to know all of the rest of you and especially can’t wait to have the craic with you all Paul Courtney-Ford
Hey guys, My name is Precious (yes, you read that right) and this is my second year as an Ambassador and the final year of my undergrad, studying English and Economics. I remember when I first arrived, and I felt so overwhelmed, Launchpad and the MAP office really helped to get into the swing of things while making lots of great friends along the way. I hope that lots of you get involved during the year (however that will look like) as well. Precious Ufuoma Umurhurhu
Hey everyone! My name is Ryan and I’m a Third Year in Computer Science and Software Engineering. I came into college through both the HEAR and DARE routes and this is my second year as a Head Ambassador for Launchpad! I’m in charge of most of the tech support for this year’s virtual Launchpad because I love technology so if you have any questions about using any of the tech this year, just reach out on whatever platform you can find me on! The same applies for any questions on using assistive tech in college! I’m also the President of the Access Society this year! The society is a place where any students (but especially Access students) can come and run or participate in events (we do a mix of awareness and entertainment events) with a whole team to back them and provide spare hands for anything they can. I’d love to see as many of you as possible joining our society this year! See you all soon!! Ryan Lynch
Hi, my name is Tomi Fagbo and I am from Leitrim. I am going into second year studying BBS Business marketing. A little bit about myself: I’m absolutely terrified of chickens and I’m newly really into photography and art Tomi Fagbo
Hey folks! I'm Will, heading into my final year masters for engineering! I did my theory drivers test 2 days after my 17th birthday… well it's expired now after 4 years of no progress on starting lessons Will Douglas
