Professional Development in Sport – MSc Sports Performance at UL – amy mcguire.

What were your main reasons for studying the MSc Sports Performance programme?

After graduating from an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science, I wanted to deepen my understanding of sports performance but I still wasn’t entirely sure what area I wanted to specialise in. So, when I saw the MSc in Sports Performance advertised it was the perfect fit.

What were the key learnings you took from the programme as a whole?

The biggest insight for me on completion of the programme was that I wanted to further my qualifications in Performance Nutrition. The programme also provided me with the opportunity of completing my work placement in South Africa which was a life changing experience both personally and professionally.

What keys skills and competencies did you develop? 

Due to the problem based learning aspect of the programme, my critical thinking and research abilities really excelled. I also became more confident and a far better communicator. These skills have been invaluable throughout my PhD journey and in my career thus far.

How has your career progressed since you graduated and what is your current role? 

Shortly after graduating from the programme I secured my first lecturing role in IT Carlow. From there I moved to TUS Midwest and have been lecturing in Sports Nutrition and Exercise Physiology for the past 6 years. I am also a Performance Nutritionist, specialising in Gaelic games and work with both the Tipperary Senior Footballers and Waterford LGFA.

Looking back, what advice would you have for future students studying the MSc Sports Performance programme?  

Your time on this programme will go by in the blink of an eye, so put yourself out there and make the most of every opportunity that UL sends your way. When I graduated, I not only had a MSc. Degree, I also had additional qualifications in anthropometry, strength and conditioning and video analysis. I had also a unique experience over in South Africa amidst top class athletes and coach and got to go on a Safari and try shark cage diving!