Corofin student scoops top Business Award

Studying Global Commerce at University Galway

FORMER St Jarlath’s College student Shane Buckley has been named as this year’s winner of the Pat McDonagh Business Award.

The award, sponsored by the N17 Plaza, recognises excellence in Business Studies at Leaving Certificate level and promotes students to continue their studies at third level in a business-related field.

The award includes a commemorative plaque and a €500 cash prize.

This year’s award saw a very high standard of applicants, with a number of strong candidates putting themselves forward.

After careful consideration, 19-year-old Shane was selected as the winner.

Shane, from Corofin, achieved a H1 in Business and a H2 in Accounting in his Leaving Certificate. He is currently studying the Bachelor of Commerce (Global Experience) at the University of Galway. The course includes a year abroad, giving students valuable international experience as part of their degree.

During his time in St Jarlath’s College, Shane made a strong contribution to school life. In Fifth year, he received the Academic Excellence Award in recognition of his results. In Transition Year, he was part of an ECO-UNESCO team promoting sustainability initiatives, with the group reaching the Irish finals.

Shane also showed initiative and leadership beyond the classroom. As part of the TY school magazine team, he approached local businesses in Tuam to secure sponsorship, raising hundreds of euro to support the publication.

In Sixth year, as captain of the senior rugby team, he secured over €2,000 in sponsorship from local businesses to help fund gear for players and coaches.

Reflecting on receiving the award, Shane said, “During my time in St Jarlath’s College, I developed a strong interest in Business and Accounting. I was fortunate to have excellent teachers who made the subjects engaging and helped me build a strong understanding of both. That interest led me to study Global Commerce at the University of Galway.

“I’m very grateful to Pat McDonagh for presenting me with the award and to my teachers for their support throughout my time in the school.”

The award was presented in the college by Supermac’s Managing Director Pat McDonagh, who congratulated Shane on his achievements.

“We are delighted to recognise Shane’s hard work and commitment to Business Studies. Students like Shane are the future of Irish enterprise. It is important that young people continue to study business at second and third level,” remarked Mr McDonagh.