Mature student Martin had been a chef for over 20 years and was successfully running his own business when he decided to go back to education to further his career.
Martin explained:
2018 was an extremely challenging year for Martin in both his professional and personal life. In January 2018 the roadworks on the M2 had a profound impact on his business, with his restaurant trade dropping dramatically due to traffic problems. The stress of his business troubles combined with numerous family issues including caring for his mother with dementia culminated in Martin suffering a massive heart attack on the first Friday in July.“Taking the plunge and signing up for my degree was the next logical step for me in terms of career progression. Juggling studying and coursework with running a busy restaurant was certainly a challenge but I was lucky to have the support of both my family and my lecturers at Ulster University.”
While the restaurant may have been forced to close Martin remained focused on his studies and successfully completed his course. Martin has used his final year business plan to start a new business,
“It was a challenging few months after my heart attack but with the help of my family and friends I got through it. Although I had to close the restaurant I am optimistic about my future. My course has unlocked my passion for hospitality and I can’t wait to get started on my next adventure.”