Dr Murphy commended Richard on his academic achievements and also on his contribution to the work of UCC PLUS+. Richard, now a 2nd year PhD student in the Department of Chemistry, commenced his studies in 2004. Prior to commencing his studies in UCC, Richard attended the North Monastery Secondary School. At second level Richard was involved in a number of UCC PLUS+ (formerly Access programme) activities and this involvement continued throughout his undergraduate degree. Richard is now providing pupils in his old school and undergraduate students in UCC with valuable support in their studies.
Richard was nominated for this award by Olive Byrne, UCC PLUS+ Programme Manager. The UCC PLUS+ programme works with second level schools in Cork, Kerry and Waterford. It aims to increase the number of student from under-represented socio-economic groups progressing on to higher education.
Students admitted to UCC through the Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) are supported by UCC PLUS+ for the duration of their undergraduate studies.
Ms Byrne commented: “Richard has been nominated for this award in recognition of his academic achievements, but more importantly, in recognition of his willingness to get involved in the outreach and post entry support work carried out by UCC PLUS+ , which serves to increase the number of students from under-represented groups progressing to and graduating from third level”.
Visit: http://www.ucc.ie/uccplus, http://www.accesscollege.ie
Picture L-R: Olive Byrne, UCC
PLUS+ Programme Manager,
Richard O’Connor, Dr Michael Murphy, President, UCC and Mr Con O'Brien, Vice-President for the Student Experience, UCC.
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