Ashling O'Neill

    Media Studies
    Multimedia Coordinator for the RTÉ Player and RTÉ.ie

    I chose Digital Media in Maynooth University as it allowed me as a student to explore and discover the potential of creative technologies as well as allowing me to learn about how new media envelops our lives.
     
    I found it fascinating to learn and observe the use of creative technology and study the deeper impact the various forms of media has on the general public. Over the course of my four years in Maynooth University, no two days were the same. The lecturers were encouraging and classes were engaging. I found the course to be the perfect blend of practical and academic.
     
    Classes were often assigned projects that allowed us to build up a skillset in website design, graphic design, animation, video and radio documentaries. Through these projects, we learnt how to use programming languages such as Java, XML, HTML, CSS, PHP as well as editing software like Protools, Final Cut Pro Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Dreamweaver. There was a heavy emphasis on learning by doing and communicating among peers.
     
    Industry professionals would speak to the classes allowing us to ask, learn and make connections in the industry before we entered it. We were encouraged to be creative and push boundaries. Participatory lectures and projects helped to build up confidence for presentations and build a professional portfolio that could be used later when searching for a job.
     
    During my third year, I took on an internship with RTÉ Digital and was taken on as a Multimedia Coordinator for the RTÉ Player and RTÉ.ie by the end of the year. My success was contributed to having knowledge of creative technology, hands on experience with cameras and editing equipment as well as having a knowledgeable background in media and computer theory essential for the ever changing face of new media.
     
    Maynooth University has helped me to succeed in my chosen field of study. I’ve gained invaluable experience, studied and participated in engaging classes as well made many memories and friends, which will last a lifetime.