Limerick's very own Miss Universe looks to future in marketing

LIMERICK’S very own Aideen Howard has said her graduation was "a day I will always remember”.

Aideen, who lives in Castletroy, is gearing up to represent Ireland at the Miss Universe competition having won the Irish heat earlier this year. Away from the catwalk, she has been busy though, completing a degree in business with French at University of Limerick (UL).

She joined thousands of other graduates at the ceremonies on campus.

It’s the “friendships and experiences” the 22-year-old will take most from her time at third level.

"People always tell you that you’ll meet some of your friends for life in college and it really is true. I’ll always be so grateful to UL for bringing some amazing people into my life,” she said.

Aideen celebrated earning her degree alongside her parents Deirdre and Daithi, plus two sisters Aislin and Maureen.

Her best friends Ashling, Genny and Patrick also joined in the fun.

"Having so many of the people who have supported me over the years together in one place made the day really special,” she added.

For now, Aideen’s main focus is the Miss Universe final in November, and trying to represent Ireland as best she can.

“After that, I'd love to pursue a career in marketing and put everything I’ve learnt at UL into practice. I’m excited to gain experience, keep learning and see where my carer takes me,” she told Limerick Live.

Aideen believes the period you spend in college can be just as important as one's teenage years.

She says she's enjoyed plenty of highs and lows through her degree and has learned something about herself from all of them.

"Probably the biggest thing I’ve learned is that difficult times do pass. When you're in the middle of something, it can feel like such a big deal and like things will always feel that way, but they won’t. Life can look completely different a few months or a year down the line," she added.

Regardless of what happens at the Miss Universe final in Puerto Rico this November, Aideen will fly the Irish flag until her successor is picked next year.

“I’ll only ever get to be Miss Universe Ireland once, so I don't want to look back and feel I didn't make the most of this opportunity,” she said. “Something really important to me is being a positive role model for younger people, especially anyone who might be struggling with their confidence or going through a difficult time. I think when you’re young, whatever you’re dealing with can feel like it’s your whole world, but one thing I’ve learned as i've gotten older is life can change so fast. What feels overwhelming today might feel completely different tomorrow.”

Aideen wants to use the remainder of her term to remind youngsters to keep going, believe in themselves and not let adversity define them.

"Representing Ireland at Miss Universe is a huge part of the year, and something I’m incredibly excited about, but I also want the title to mean something beyond the competition. Even if I can have a positive impact on a small number of people, I’d be really proud of that,” she concluded.