Insights delivering Inspiration

Insights Delivering Inspiration: St Mary’s Inspiring Insights Lecture Series Empowers Liberal Arts Students

St Mary’s University College Belfast recently concluded its Inspiring Insights lecture series, a dynamic five-week programme designed to introduce first-year Liberal Arts students to a wide range of career journeys and professional experiences.

Bringing together five guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, the series offered students valuable insight into the many paths their future careers could take — from entrepreneurship and consultancy to media, public relations, and hospitality. Each session focused on real-world experience, personal development, and the power of perseverance.

The series featured five distinguished speakers:

Dougie Adams, former CEO of Connected Health, who shared his story of growing up in Ballymurphy and his journey from being told he would “never make it” in business to leading a successful healthcare company.
Jim Fitzpatrick, journalist, presenter, and founder of The Sober Irish, who discussed his career in investigative journalism and the thinking behind his new business venture.
Tessa Breslin, consultant, who reflected on her international experiences and encouraged students to seize every opportunity and pursue their dreams.
Una Burns, co-owner of Charlie’s Bar, Enniskillen, and a St Mary’s alumna, who spoke about her career change from education to hospitality and the importance of investing in people.
Arlene O’Connor, co-founder of Brown/O’Connor Ireland, who offered thoughtful advice on saying yes to opportunities, mastering the basics, and following one’s passions.

John Brolly, Marketing & Communications Manager at St Mary’s University College, said:

“The Inspiring Insights series gives our students the chance to connect with professionals who have forged successful careers in different industries. It’s an invaluable opportunity to learn directly from those who have faced challenges, adapted, and achieved success in their chosen fields.”

Mr Brolly added:

“Each of our speakers delivered a powerful message — that success often comes from resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose. These conversations have truly inspired our students to think ambitiously about their own futures.”

The Inspiring Insights lecture series forms part of St Mary’s ongoing commitment to providing holistic, career-focused education that connects classroom learning with real-world experience.