Westport native, Jamie Hoban, is a final year BSc Quantitative Finance student at Maynooth University. Jamie reflects on life as a Quantitative Finance student and Student Ambassador.
“The Quantitative Finance degree was launched in 2019 and it was recommended to me by a local guidance counsellor. The course is made up of modules in the fields of finance, economics, computer science, mathematics and statistics. The University continually strives to enhance the cross-over and links between the different subject strands within the degree. As students, we feel valued and heard.
In first year, we had the option to study some related subjects such as data science, accounting, or to choose additional computer science modules. Thanks to this opportunity, students have the freedom to apply for transfer into other courses at the end of first year. There is also a small number of optional subjects in second and third year, while in final year we have choice of five from twelve modules. This allows us to specialise in subjects which are more applicable to the jobs we hope to work in after graduation. The course is developing and getting wider recognition each year since its recent inception.
A commonly held opinion among my fellow students is that Maynooth is a lovely town to live in due to its nice, friendly atmosphere. I have lots of friends from a wide range of faculties and courses across the University. The proximity to Dublin is also an advantage and it is perfectly located for anyone driving from Mayo as it is just five minutes off the motorway. It is also easily accessible through public transport for a large portion of the county with a bus going through Ballina, Foxford, Swinford and Charlestown.
While the college is very popular for commuters, the campus accommodation provides a great resource to those of us from further afield. One of the major benefits of living on campus in Maynooth is that in many cases it is more affordable than the wider market. Being a stone’s throw from my lectures and the various facilities, such as the sports centre and restaurant, also helps! There are lots of clubs and societies on campus to entertain students. I am a member of the University GAA club and have played with the intermediate team.
I would encourage anyone to look into potential degrees at Maynooth University as I have loved studying here and pursuing opportunities as a Student Ambassador.”
The Student Ambassador Programme provides current Maynooth University students with the opportunity to provide information about their degree course, subjects, campus facilities and life at Maynooth University to prospective applicants, parents and guardians.
- Meet MU Student Ambassadors at the Spring Open Day on Saturday April 27th www.mu.ie/opendays
- Chat to MU Student Ambassadors on our Ask a Student page www.mu.ie/askastudent