In my life

Mark FitzGerald, CEO, Sherry FitzGerald

Where did you go to school?

I went to Gonzaga College in Ranelagh, Dublin.

What was your best subject?

History was the subject in which I was most interested.

What was your worst subject?

I did not like Greek.

If you could put a new subject on the Leaving Cert, what would it be?

I think that psychology would be a very useful subjects.

What was your earliest career ambition?

To be an auctioneer.

Who was your favourite teacher and why?

Michael Bevan and Fr Joe Brennan SJ who, despite having had me as a pupil, continues to teach to this day with the same passion and enthusiasm.

Who was your childhood idol?

Robert Kennedy - I was 10 when he was shot.

Who was your best friend?

I had a group of very close friends most of whom I still see regularly.

What are they doing now?

They are mostly involved in various professions - from teaching to medicine.

What TV programme/film most reminds you of your schooldays?

I will never forget Dixon of Dock Green

What song most reminds you of your schooldays?

Walk on the Wild Side by Lou Reed.

What food most reminds you of your schooldays?

Soggy chips.

What was your school uniform like?

It was too big for me.

What's the boldest thing you ever did in school?

I am not sure if there was a definitive occasion where something particularly stands out, however being involved in dyeing the school water system pink is something I remember.

Who did you bring to your debs?

In my day there were no debs for boys' schools.

What was your most memorable holiday?

Going to France with my family on one of the first voyages of the Rosslare to Le Havre car ferry in August 1968.

What's the last book you read?

Con Cremin - Ireland's Wartime Diplomat by Dr Niall Keogh.

Did you go to college and if so, what did you study?

I didn't agree terms with university but did auctioneering through the College of Commerce in Rathmines.

Would you send your own children to the same school that you went to?

Yes - my only son Garret goes there now.

What was the best thing about your education?

The friendships I gained and the curiosity that my education instilled in me.

What was the worst thing about your education?

Being accountable through the exam system.