Scholarship was a 'gamechanger' for Mayo mum

An Erris mum of three will soon complete an Executive MBA programme at the University of Galway as part of a scholarship.

Shortly after maternity leave, health and safety inspector Ann Marie Gallagher received an opportune scholarship. Returning to college was not on the cards but she received an offer for the MBA, as well as the Information and Communication Scholarship.

“Without that support, it simply wouldn’t have been possible, and I am incredibly grateful to the University for investing in me at a time when my confidence and career progression had stalled following maternity leave," she said.

It has been a busy time for Ann Marie and the juggle has often been a struggle.

“Balancing life between work and raising three young children has been a real challenge. My days often begin at 5am to make it to college for 7.30am and home after 6.30pm, the juggle is very real,” she said. “However, the support from the programme has been exceptional and the lecturers have also been incredibly understanding of the pressures of working full-time while raising a family."

Ann Marie wants to inspire other mums who may be in a similar boat.

“I wanted to share my experience to encourage other working mothers who may be considering a return to education or a career change. There are a number of scholarships available, and while they are competitive, applying early can make all the difference."

She has shared her college experience with three fellow alumni from Our Lady’s Secondary School, Belmullet. The MBA group is preparing for final assignments and exams with a week-long study trip to Fordham University in New York next month.

“We are even hopeful we might find a Mayo pub along the way in New York and perhaps a few more people from Erris as we proudly represent our shared roots abroad.”