Setting up a new business will be child’s play for University of Ulster student Nicole Dooey who graduates with a First Class degree today.

The enterprising Portrush woman has her sights set on opening a children’s nursery and after-school’s club.

Nicole said that the knowledge and practical learning experience gained through the BSc Hons Business Studies programme, she studied at the Jordanstown campus, has been invaluable to her.

“Above all I feel the course has given me the discipline and dedication required to take the next step. The modules and teaching approach have enabled me to gain a greater insight into the various aspects of running and developing a business,” she said.

But Nicole wasn’t always so certain about which career path to follow.

“Firstly I went to university in Glasgow and started off studying Psychology, but I quickly realised that this wasn’t the right path for me. Then I did a HND in beauty therapy, thinking I could set up my own beauty business one day, but after working in that industry for a while I knew I had made the wrong move.

“I’ve always wanted to set up my own business, my parents have their own business and I’ve been around that all my life so I understand the challenges of it.

“After my beauty therapy experience I knew that my business had to be something I’m passionate about - a business will never succeed if there’s no passion to fuel it. I’ve always loved children so I thought, ‘why not build a business around child care’.”

At first Nicole was reluctant to return to higher education for the third time.

“My parents persuaded me to study a Business Studies degree and I was offered a place at the Ulster Business School. At the time it was difficult to go back but I don’t regret the decision for a second.”

And Nicole excelled on her course winning a High Achievers Award - which is presented to the top 10 per cent of students – for two years running.

She added: “I’m 25-years-old now, but being a more mature student has helped me take my studies more seriously. I would say to anyone considering setting up their own business that this is the course for them.”

Head of Department, Dr Gillian Armstrong, from the Ulster Business School, congratulated Nicole on her achievement.

“Nicole has worked incredibly hard throughout the Business Studies degree and has utilised her studies in Accounting, Human Resource Management, Marketing and Enterprise to full advantage to suit her own career aspirations – on behalf of the course team, we wish her well in her new business.”