Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

In this advice blog, Charlie Juckniess, a Creighton University student here at the University of Limerick on the Study Abroad programme from Minnesota, offers his advice to fellow Study Abroad students coming to study at UL. 

To be bold, distinctive, and inclusive; these are the three pillar descriptions included in the mission statement of the University of Limerick. Truly, these adjectives beautifully encapsulate the essence of this charmed establishment and those who inhabit it. Unlike any other place I have experienced in my life, UL exists at the top of the list in terms of welcomeness, excellence, and enjoyment. It really is more than just a place of study. For me, UL is my home away from home. That is not to say the University is a walk in the park—though, it’s campus could quite literally be considered a haven.

 

I have studied at the University of Limerick for nearly three months, and I believe I have gathered various pieces of helpful information that could be used as a guide to success at the University of Limerick—keep in mind my definition of success is a bit different from that of what’s listed in the dictionary. My measure of success is not through feedback or quotas, but rather through personal development. Through my experience, a formula came out of the woodwork, and I believe it maximizes the good in one’s time at the University of Limerick. The method is as follows. 

Establishing a Routine 

The first step in my coined formula is establishing a routine. When I first arrived at the University of Limerick, I was a bit overwhelmed. Entering a new country with faces I had never seen before was foreign territory to me. One of the things that helped my transition and success was the creation of a regimen. Though simple, my new-found consistent rhythm gave me the motivation to get out of bed and get to work. At the end of the day, I came here to continue my academics—setting my alarm early and hitting the books got me acclimated to the fresh environment, and it honestly took my mind off the stressful nuances of living in a distant country.

Taking It All In 

Although establishing a routine was a crucial step in my journey to comfortability here at UL, it is essential to “go and smell the roses” occasionally. Perspective is a beautiful thing, and Ireland has provided me much of it. The places I have visited, the people I have met, and the cultures I have delved into here have all given me a heaping dose of perspective. The world is a vast and gorgeous place, exploring it is quite the privilege. Though it may not be easy to jump into a new University and country, in the grand scheme of things, it’s an experience not very many are fortunate enough to encounter. Take some time to appreciate where you are and what you are doing.

Broadening Your Horizons 

As amazing as the University of Limerick is, to limit oneself to the walls of the university would be a disservice. There is much more than “Brown Thomas” to experience in Limerick, Ireland, let alone the whole of the European continent. It is essential for those studying at the University of Limerick—especially study abroad students—to broaden their horizons and see the world. There are endless experiences to be had, people to be met, and places to visit. Do all you can to face all of it.

Breathe Out 

Above all the previous pieces of advice given, taking a step back and breathing out is the most vital to achieving success, comfort, and happiness at the University of Limerick. School can be stressful at times, heck, life is stressful most of the time. Sometimes all it takes to alleviate the mind of these hinderances is a couple seconds to analyze and breathe out. It is important to remember the countless modes of aid—whether it be mental or physical—that the University of Limerick offers to make their students feel as little discomfort as possible. With that being said, I find taking a couple of seconds to put your stresses into perspective, or even simply breathing out, is the best solution.

Cherish It All

The last piece of advice I can offer to any and all students studying at the University of Limerick is to treasure the time you have here. Time here flies by, you could quite literally blink and miss all of it. The memories and friends I have made here will last me a lifetime, and I am incredibly thankful. Make sure to cherish each and every day you have at UL, and you will be just fine. Join Clubs & Societies, attend International Night at the Stables campus bar, attend concerts in UCH or Limerick city – do whatever suits you to cherish your time here at the University of Limerick.