A lifelong interest in gardening led to a course of study that resulted in a qualification in horticulture and a new career for mature student Anne Hanafin. Olive Keogh reports
Three years ago Anne Hanafin made two life-changing decisions. She gave up her long-standing office job, and then she enrolled as a full-time student at the National Botanic Gardens.
"This all happened as a result of a discussion we had at home about work and careers and I said that if I had my time over I'd study horticulture," she says. "My family started encouraging me to take the plunge, so I checked around for suitable courses and got in touch with the Botanic Gardens. I had to sit an entrance exam, which was pretty daunting, but I was offered a place and started the course which leads to a diploma in amenity horticulture in September 1999.
"It was a complete shock to the system initially. I was absolutely terrified going in on the first day and I was apprehensive about the academic side of things as, apart from a few night courses, I hadn't studied since I left school. The first year was a mix of lectures and practical work in the garden. We had continuous assessment which kept us on our toes and at times it was tough going. There were other mature students in my group, which was a help as we supported each other, and my family were also very good. You have to have family support when you're trying to juggle a full-time course, study and domestic commitments.
"I have always been interested in gardening and plants so I had some knowledge to start with, but there is an enormous amount to learn and it's difficult remembering the Latin names of everything. In year two, we had three work placements which were varied and interesting and this year it was mainly lectures with an emphasis on the business and management side of things.
"I have just started working as a guide in the Botanic Gardens with Duchas, the National Heritage Service. The gardens are a wonderful environment in which to work. There's always something coming into flower and the whole complexion of the gardens changes with the time of the year. It's a fabulous place to be - even in the rain. Deciding to do the course was a big step, but I really enjoyed it and I'm delighted I did it. "
