Inclusive Education at Maynooth University: a Graduate Story

How did I come to Maynooth?

My mother heard about this course and told me about it. My brother, sister, and parents attended different colleges and universities. I wanted to attend university, so I applied for this course. I had an interview and told them that I wanted to study media studies. One day, I received a letter in my mailbox, and I opened it. I was accepted into Maynooth University. I felt over the moon and couldn’t believe I had been accepted—this was my dream come true. 

What is the ILI? 

It means Inclusive Learning Initiative. Five people with intellectual disabilities joined the first group of the ILI. We all studied different courses in Maynooth. This course was fully inclusive.

What I studied and why

I wanted to study media studies. I studied the history of media, creating a documentary, script writing, editing, and presenting for radio and television.

What parts of college did I enjoy?    

I enjoyed being there.  Inclusion is a feeling I’ve experienced through making friends and creating memories. It was difficult at the beginning, but then I focused on my module. Lecturers got used to me and the way I work. I am a visual learner. I also met people who really cared and wanted me to succeed. I enjoyed Kairos and working with the lights. I enjoyed doing voice-overs. I interviewed Shay Healy.

How did I show my learning?

 I created a show reel by compiling all my assignments. I made a documentary about my journey through college, titled Don’t Tell me, Show me. I am a visual learner who prefers structure and uses a portfolio of work. I also express myself through writing, poetry, and music. I received support from the ILI facilitator. As the lecturers got to know me, they became more open to different teaching and assessment methods. My assignments were practical; I interviewed Shay Healy, compared two wildlife programmes and shared my opinion, and conducted interviews in Rome during my work placement. All of this was assessed, including a report from Vatican Radio about my placement. I felt very honoured and humbled to meet Pope Francis, and I was very happy to see him.

What does inclusive education mean to me?

It means fostering natural and existing supports by learning from all the lecturers and students. Inclusive means I am involved in all modules. I want people to see me for who I am while living with Down syndrome. 

The power that objects create?

I love music; it is very powerful. Two songs truly resonated with me. One is ‘This is me’ from The Greatest Showman. I like the line – but I won’t let them break me down, I know that there’s a place for us, for we are glorious.

The second song that resonated is ‘The River’ by Garth Brooks

I will sail my vessel till the river runs dry

Like a bird upon the wind

These waters are my sky

I’ll never reach my destination

If I never try

So I will sail my vessel

Till the river runs dry.

The last song I will mention is ‘The Climb’ by Miley Cyrus. It reminds me of getting through college assignments and life in general.

There’s always gonna be another mountain

I’m always gonna want to make it move

Always gonna be an uphill battle

Sometimes I’m gonna have to lose

Ain’t about how fast I get there

Ain’t about what’s waiting on the other side

It’s the climb.

My advice to students!

The advice I can give to students is to enjoy their time with friends. Make use of the support available. Be creative in what you do and be honest with yourself.

My advice to universities

My advice for universities is to support students and guide them by recognising their potential.  

What is important and why?

The most important thing is to follow your heart in everything you do. Focus on your studies and recognise your potential.

What kind of supports is important for students?

Patient and kind lecturers are essential. Support from family, friends, and other students is vital in helping the student achieve his potential.

Life is what you make it by Michael Gannon

Life is what you make it

Grab a hold and shake it

Hold on tight and take it

Don’t be afraid and fake it

You may think I’m a dreamer

More likely I’m a schemer

You may think I’m a sinner

But in truth I’m a winner

I do my best

Never mind the rest

My life is blessed

I’ll stand the test

So life is what you make it

Don’t lose your nerve

And break it

Michael’s Biography

Michael Gannon has a wide range of interests, including drama, dance, writing, fitness, and travel. Michael has never let his disability hold him back from his ambitions. He was a student at the National University of Ireland, Maynooth, for three years, studying media studies. His philosophy in life is that anything is possible and that you should never give up on your dreams.