In my life. . . Claire Byrne

Claire Byrne

Current job:

TV3 newscaster, Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) nominee for TV personality of the year.

What schools did you go to?

St Brigid's and the Brigidin Convent in Mountrath, Co Laois.

Best subject?

English

Worst subject?

Biology

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

Had a grass fight outside the parent-teacher meeting - we were like wild animals.

Who was your favourite teacher and why?

My English and Irish teacher, Mary Holden. She inspired me to get involved in debating and to follow my ambition to work as a journalist.

Who was the object of your first crush?

George Michael. I used to dream of being in that Last Christmas video and having a snowball fight with him.

What was your earliest career ambition?

To be a journalist

Were you cool or nerdy at school?

In between - my parents wouldn't allow me to be cool but I did my best.

Did you go to college?

I studied journalism at the College of Commerce in Rathmines, Dublin.

What song most reminds you of your school days?

I Think We're Alone Now by Tiffany

What would you look for when choosing a school for your own children?

A good regime of discipline.

Were your school days the best days of your life?

I look back on them with great fondness.