As the end of the 2016 100minds campaign draws to a close I felt obliged to write a blog detailing the thoroughly fulfilling and enjoyable experience I had as a participant.

Firstly, I would like to thank Charles Lorigan for the encouragement and aid he provided me in becoming part of the campaign. Without him, I may not have had this incredible opportunity which has seen me grow in so many ways, and for that I am extremely grateful.

I had been aware of the 100minds for a couple of years through attending some of my friend's and fellow student's events and I had always been fascinated by the possibility of getting involved. Going into my final year of study, 2016 would be my last chance to be a part of the campaign and so I decided to do it. Having participated in 100minds events from previous years and seeing other students reach their target with what seemed like consummate ease, I felt the task at hand couldn't be too difficult. I was extremely wrong. It was a lot of work, it challenged me on a myriad of levels and without Declan, Kevin and my mentor Elaine I can honestly say I would not have reached my target.

I was delighted to have Elaine as a mentor and cannot thank her enough for the help she provided me with over the last few months. Elaine encouraged me to think outside of some of the traditional fundraising methods and really pushed me to use relevant entrepreneurial skills in trying to reach my target. She is a young entrepreneur herself and although the challenges that faced me did not equate to the magnitude of those facing her business, she was always able to relate to the difficulties I had and gave great guidance in overcoming them.

With Elaine's advice, I decided to take one of my passions- golf- and run a student golf event in order to reach my target. I organised for the event to be held in Elm Park Golf Club on March 15 and required teams of four to play a 12 hole scramble for some great prizes. Knowing that costs of green fees for such an in demand golf course like Elm Park were quite high, and not wanting to discourage students from playing, I instead looked for companies to sponsor holes which would help not only cover the costs of some of the green fees but also help in reaching my target and raising much needed funds for Childline. The event was extremely successful, had a great turn out, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who participated and came to watch. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the participants, helpers and sponsors (Capnua, McNally Handy, Aviva, Wellington, O'Briens Wines, Fitzers Restaurant Group, Mao) for supporting my event and raise much needed funds for Childline.

Lastly, I would like to thank Declan Egan and Kevin Cassidy for their incredible work this year. What they both do for their chosen charity and students all around the country is truly inspiring. They have organised countless events with some of Ireland's biggest employers to help students get the necessary tools to improve their CVs, successfully apply for internships and graduate programs, and network with employees of these companies. They both go way beyond the call of duty and on behalf of all the participants this year I would like to thank you both. Participating in the 2016 100minds has been a magnificent experience. I would really encourage any student who has not been involved in a campaign before to give it a go. You will acquire a lot of great skills, meet great people and best of all you will help out some great charities.