Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

In this personal blog, Océane, a UL Global Student Ambassador from France, studying Modern Languages and Applied Linguistics, offers her advice and thoughts on her Erasmus experience at the University of Limerick:

Reflecting on leaving

Often, when I talk about the fact that I’m studying in Ireland, miles away from home, people call me crazy, but they also worry about the complexity of rebuilding your life away from your country and your loved ones.  

In many ways, they’re probably right. I had to leave my comfort zone, leave the family cocoon and the routine I knew, and start all over again. Choosing courses, establishing learning agreements, it all seemed so unreal at first, but so exhilarating!   

As terrifying as it may seem, it was and will be the best experience of my life. Imagine studying at an extraordinary university, surrounded by caring people ready to help you. Since I’ve been here, I’ve met some exceptional people, visited some beautiful places, and took the time to live life fully.  

Why go?  

Erasmus is a moment out of time, when you create a new life with people who will become the main players in your adventure.  

Studying abroad means discovering a new culture, broadening your horizons by meeting locals and other international students, and understanding the richness of cultural diversity. But it’s also an opportunity for personal development, creating memories and reinventing yourself. 

The UL Experience 

It’s an experience that positively transforms our lives. By choosing Limerick, I have the chance to benefit from a quality education, with a wide range of academic programs in various fields. The campus is modern and offers all the facilities students need to feel at home. The multicultural atmosphere is more than wonderful, allowing students to discover new cultures. Especially at UL, you can get involved in causes that are close to your heart, such as environmental protection, and thus make a positive contribution to society. To succeed academically and personally, we have unfailing support, with counselling and mental health services offered by UL.  

From a personal point of view: 

I have no regrets about leaping into the unknown, into this new life. Although it may seem complicated at first, it’s been an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s only one school year in my life, but it creates everlasting memories, alongside extraordinary people. I’ve had the opportunity to visit cities and see breathtaking landscapes. It’s a truly timeless moment when you learn to become the best version of yourself, by surpassing yourself and speaking a language that’s not your own.