Dublin mother who dropped out of school at 15 now aiming to complete her PhD

Louise Hassan, from Walkinstown, is on the brink of achieving this extraordinary educational milestone while balancing the care of her autistic daughter, who attends daycare services.

She credited the staff at her local Further Education and Training (FET) centre in Blanchardstown for helping her reach this point.

“My second foray into the world of education started in 2014 in Blanchardstown Adult Education Centre, and it was just transformational,” she said.

“Not just for the educational aspect, it was also great to get out and meet people again. The teaching was exceptional. I was very lucky to have had four exceptional teachers, and they will be acknowledged in my PhD when it’s published.”

While she has managed to balance her education and her responsibilities in taking care of her daughter, it didn’t come without challenges.

“There were times when I couldn’t go into lectures because I’d be at home looking after my daughter. But I’d catch up later,” she said.

“Anyone thinking of returning to education should visit their local Education and Training Board college to find out what they can offer.

“Some people might find the prospect of picking up the books again a bit daunting. But they shouldn’t worry. All the teachers are fantastic, and they will support you all the way. There is such a diverse range of courses available, there is something for everyone.”

After enrolling herself for the Leaving Certificate in her 40s, Ms Hassan is now close to completing her doctoral studies at Dublin City University (DCU), focused on the fantasy novels of George R.R. Martin, the author of Game of Thrones.

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Ms Hassan said her journey really began when she finally completed her Leaving Cert.

“At our graduation, someone from DCU was there to give a talk about further education. That’s when I began thinking, ‘Wow, maybe I could do that’.

“I left school when I was 15, and the thought of going to university never entered my head. But now, older and wiser, I decided to study Theology and English.

“The interview panel at DCU were really impressed by the fact that I had gone back to college to do the Leaving Cert.”

After successfully graduating with honours, Louise went on to enrol in DCU’s first-ever Masters course in Creative Writing.

“After completing my MA, I was asked if I wanted to continue with my studies and study for a PhD,” she said.

“I’m a big fan of Game of Thrones and thought if I was going to do another four years of education, it would have to be to study something I really loved. My supervisor for the PhD is Marina Carr, the playwright, and the focus is on Christology and mythology.

“I have just completed my third year and have one year to go before I can call myself Dr Louise Hassan, fingers crossed.”

Louise’s inspiring story was highlighted as the ETBI unveiled its four key priorities for Budget 2025, including increased funding for the FET sector and a €600mn allocation for the FET Colleges of the Future project, set to commence in 2028