Eve Connolly – BA (Hons) in Writing and Literature (Online)

Name: Eve Connolly

What key skills did you learn while studying at ATU Sligo that have influenced your career?

I think the main thing I have taken away from my time so far is that I can write. That I am capable of writing the screenplays that I want to write. Not only that, but I have developed a skill for digital media and video editing.

Can you share your career path to date?

After secondary school, I studied at the Gaiety School of Acting and since graduating have worked as an actor.

What does your current role involve? 

I currently work with writers and directors to bring their vision to life.

What advice would you have for anyone considering studying online?

Personally, I think the online course is perfect for someone who is there to learn. Our classes are small and every person in it is engaged and motivated to get as much from the course as they can. Like any course, you get out of it what you put into it.

How did you find/are you finding the process of studying online? What elements did you/do you find helpful? Were there elements you found/find challenging?

I have really loved studying online. Our classes are small and teachers are available to help or answer questions. Studying Digital Media with Tommy Weir has been a game changer for me. I have always been a visual storyteller, but was never particularly good with computers. However, after the first few weeks working with Tommy I finally had the understanding of video production I needed. This helped me discover a strength I didn’t know I had.

The one challenging element from the course has been how intense it is. There are a lot of hours and it can be difficult to balance with work. Some classes are recorded which is very helpful but in the beginning we were led to believe that most of the classes would be recorded and therefore could work around your schedule. However, Una Mannion has always been extremely understanding and willing to work with you and help you so I have no doubt she would help in any way possible if college became an issue with work.

What motivated you to start studying?

My goal has always been not only to act, but to write and direct my own films as well. I love everything about film and storytelling and have spent years, devouring every film, book, and podcast I could find. While I feel I’ve learnt a lot about the film industry and screenwriting from working as an actor, I have always been keen to learn more. When the pandemic hit, it seemed like the perfect time to study.

Why did you choose this course from ATU Sligo?

For a long time I had been looking for a writing course that not only focused on creative writing, screenwriting and film, but was also flexible enough to work around any possible jobs. Back in 2020, at the start of the first lockdown, I was researching online courses and came across the Writing and Literature online course at ATU Sligo. It was exactly what I was looking for. The fact that it is online means you are not tied to a specific place – something that was essential for me. Not only that but getting the chance to work with such incredible working writers like Elske Rahill, Una Mannion, Alice Lyons, Louise Kennedy and Marian Quinn, has been incredible. To get a glimpse into how each of them work and have them guide me and read my work has really been a highlight. 32A was one of the first films I bought myself as a child so working with Marian has been so inspiring.

In what way has studying online with ATU Sligo benefitted your career?

It has made me a better and more confident writer and has given me the courage and support to start writing the stories I want to tell.

Did this course provide any unexpected benefits to your career?

This course will no doubt help me in my future in film. From working with Marian Quinn to Tommy Weir to Keith Hopper, the level of expertise and guidance we have received has exceeded my expectations.

Find out more about AU930 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Writing and Literature (Online) 

Find out more about AU929 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Writing and Literature