Oisin Mc Loughlin – BEng in Mechatronics

Name: Oisin Mc Loughlin

School: Ballinamore CS

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choose your course 

I chose this course because I find I get on far better in Maths and practical subjects such as Construction and DCG, rather than subjects such as English, Irish or Business. Despite not studying Engineering in Leaving Cert, I was confident in my skills as a quick learner and I picked up the necessary skills quickly. I enjoy the hands-on experience in this course and the challenges that face me, I feel I am getting on extremely well. 

Why did you choose ATU Sligo? 

I chose ATU Sligo because I had many friends who went here and not one of them had a bad thing to say. My neighbour did his 4 years of Engineering here and he told how good the facilities, labs, equipment and staff – but most importantly, he told me how helpful every lecturer was and how they would go out of their way to make sure you succeeded in your studies; and I am glad to say they have not let me down once. 

What advice would you give someone thinking about choosing ATU Sligo? 

I would recommend ATU Sligo to my friends as the help I have received here is unmatched and the practical side of my course is enjoyable and educational. 

What specifically about your course do you particularly enjoy? 

I enjoy how hands-on the course is and almost everything is learned practically in labs, and for me, I always found this the easiest way for me to learn. 

What would you say to a student thinking about studying your course? 

If the student is interested in maths, electronics and engineering then I would say this is the perfect course for them. 

Tell us about your sporting career/success so far? 

I’ve played for my club from u8s to senior football now. I have won several underage trophies, such as multiple county championships in each age group except for minors. My favourite moment is starting full-forward in my first division 1 league game and winning the intermediate championship in the same year. I have represented my county from u14s up. I started for the county minors while still u17, and I was on the u20 panel for three years but I only played in my last year due to commitments to L.C. and then a cruciate injury the following year. This is my third year with the senior panel and my proudest moment is making an appearance off the bench in the FBD League against Roscommon and scoring 2 points, and playing multiple times in the division 3 league, most notably against Cork. 

What is the best thing about sports and sports facilities at ATU Sligo? 

Due to injury, I have been unable to explore these facilities, but I have competed in schools track and field at the Knocknarea Arena and I have always been impressed with the structure in place. 

How has the sports scholarship benefited you? What are the advantages of it? 

The money will massively help me take any worries off my chest about petrol expenses for driving to college and covering fees. The gym will be a huge benefit for me in coming back from injury and having facilities like that so close will be such an advantage. 

Find out more about AU831 Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics