Gráinne Cumiskey- The business student learning, leading, and looking ahead
At just 19, Gráinne Cumiskey, a second-year Business with Management student at DkIT, has already taken on multiple leadership roles while mapping out a clear path for her future in marketing and education.
The Kilkerley native is studying for a Level 8 degree. Having attended Coláiste Rís Secondary School in Dundalk, Gráinne knew early on that DkIT was the right choice for her and had her sights set on a Business degree from Transition Year onwards. While she also considered Event Management and Hospitality Management, DkIT’s spring open day solidified her decision to pursue Business with Management.
Gráinne was drawn to the course for its variety of modules and the opportunities for both work placement and Erasmus in third year. As she heads into year three, she has successfully secured an Erasmus in Portugal, where she will attend the Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal, situated in the coastal city about 50 km south of Lisbon to study International Business from September until June.
Speaking about the opportunity, Gráinne said:
“It’s my first time living away from home—let alone in another country—but I’m so grateful for this opportunity to get the best of both worlds and experience a new culture while I study. I’ll be living in the town centre with nine other roommates, which is a little nerve-wracking but mostly exciting. I can’t wait to get started!”
Moving abroad will be a big change for Gráinne, but the Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal has only a slightly larger student population than DkIT. Small class sizes were one of the main reasons she chose DkIT in the first place. She found that the more personal learning environment made her transition from secondary school easier—plus, the 15-minute commute was an added bonus. She was also drawn to the course’s emphasis on continuous assessment, which better aligns with her strengths than traditional exams-
“Being able to present and do practical tasks are strengths for me, so knowing that there was more continuous assessment meant I had a better chance of success in my course.”
Gráinne says presenting in all of her modules has greatly boosted her confidence and helped her build strong communication skills.
“I don’t get nervous about standing in a room full of people anymore. I have the ability to just stand up and do what needs to be done,” she said.
She also values the practical elements of the accounting modules, which have enhanced her understanding of business fundamentals and sparked a growing interest in marketing.
“The hands-on experience with accounting tools and financial analysis has strengthened my skills for strategic decision-making in marketing,” she explained.
Building close relationships with lecturers and classmates has also played a key role in her success. Gráinne emphasises the value of these relationships, particularly when support is required-
“the lecturers know when you are not reaching your full potential and then are in a position to step in and help you get back on track.”
Her active involvement at DkIT since she began her studies speaks volumes about her commitment to both her education and the broader campus community. Gráinne has taken on the role of Class Rep two years in a row, is a student ambassador for the college, and often takes on other voluntary roles. She is adamant that “there are so many opportunities to avail of in DkIT if you are willing to put yourself forward!” Her enthusiasm has not gone unnoticed across the campus, and in 2024 and 2025, Gráinne was recognised for her contribution to college life with a DkIT Elevate Award.
Reflecting on her experience, she said:
“As a class representative for two years, I’ve built strong relationships with lecturers and represented students. That led me to join three Students’ Union subcommittees, which enhanced my leadership skills. Although I’ve had many great memories in DkIT, my favourite has to be winning the Elevate Award. It showed me that my hard work and determination to help others were recognised. Hearing everyone who supported me cheering and clapping gave me a huge sense of pride.”
While Gráinne had a clear vision for her future, she recognises that choosing a course and college can be overwhelming. Her advice? Choose what suits you—not what your friends are doing.
“Don’t pick a college just because your friends are going there. This is your future—do it for yourself. Choose a course you can imagine enjoying every day, and also make time to enjoy other aspects of college life, because it really does fly by.”
Gráinne has enjoyed her time at DkIT so much that she envisions returning one day—as a lecturer. After graduating, she hopes to pursue a Master’s in Marketing and gain experience in a marketing firm. She’s excited by the fast-paced nature of the industry and the challenge of executing campaigns that appeal to diverse audiences. Long-term, she aims to complete a PhD in Learning and Teaching and return to DkIT to share her knowledge with future students.
“My biggest ambition is to keep challenging and bettering myself every day. In my eyes, if I set a goal, I can achieve it—and I’ll try my hardest to give it my all.”