Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

This semester marks my second term of studying for my master’s degree at the University of Limerick. Over the past few months, I’ve noticed significant improvements in my professional skills, theoretical knowledge, language abilities, and creativity. More importantly, the entire learning process has been relaxing and enjoyable, and I truly look forward to each day spent here. In addition to my academic courses, I’ve joined a few clubs that I’m interested in since the start of last semester. One of the most special and significant ones for me is Dance UL. It has been a part of my learning journey, both as a course and an activity, and not long ago, we even participated in the all-Ireland university dance competition in Dublin. 

First Encounter with Dance UL 

Every September, UL organizes a large recruitment event for its clubs. All the clubs gather at the UL Sport Center to introduce themselves to incoming students, showcasing their activities, courses, and competitions. I decided to check out the Dance UL booth, where Anna, a passionate jazz dancer, gave us a detailed introduction. She is friendly, energetic, and always ready to help. Her patient explanation made me immediately decide to join Dance UL without hesitation. 

Participating in Various Dance Classes in Dance UL 

Dance UL offers a variety of dance classes, including Hip-hop, Jazz, Contemporary, Heels, Dance Fitness, and more. I decided to try out different classes and quickly noticed that each session had a large number of participants. The atmosphere in the classes was lively, and everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy the process of dancing. Each session is organized by the Dance UL leadership team, with many students attending who have no prior dance experience but are eager to try. At the same time, some students have years of dance training, yet they very enjoy the opportunity to dance and improve their skills. 

Joining the Dance UL Competition Teams 

In October, Dance UL began auditions for its competition teams, which included Hip-hop, Jazz, Contemporary, and Mixed Dance teams. I auditioned for both the Hip-hop and Jazz teams. Every participant had some dance experience, and everyone performed confidently. The competition in the interview is still fierce, and everyone needs to show their best. The audition itself was both a learning experience and a chance to perform, serving as a valuable opportunity to enhance our dance skills. 

Entering the Dance UL Competition Preparation Phase 

Once selected for the competition teams, the choreography team meticulously organized all rehearsal schedules leading up to the event. There was a weekly practice session, and all team members were expected to attend and contribute their best efforts to complete the rehearsal tasks. After each rehearsal, the team leaders were generous with their praise and encouragement, showing their genuine care and support for each individual. Throughout the process, the choreographers were careful to plan the rehearsals, and they thoughtfully helped each member prepare for the competition with everything from music to costumes and makeup. 

Heading to Dublin for the Competition 

After months of preparation, we finally set off for Dublin in April to compete. The event is a major university dance competition in Ireland, with five categories: Hip-hop, Jazz, Contemporary, Irish Dance, and Mixed Dance. We arrived in Dublin the day before the competition and stayed together in a hostel. That night, we shared stories and motivated each other. The next morning, we had breakfast together and then traveled to the competition venue. The sense of unity within the team was amazing.  

The atmosphere at the competition was vibrant, with university students from across the country coming together with a shared passion for dance. During the competition, it was clear to see how the Dance UL team had gradually built up its cohesion over the past few months. Everyone supported and encouraged each other, and the team leaders instilled confidence and strength in us. The competition itself was intense, with a lively atmosphere that kept building as the day went on, filled with fantastic performances. Later in the evening, there was even a dance party to celebrate the event.  

Throughout the experience, I witnessed so many university students from around the world, all driven by a love for dance, pushing their limits, and continuing to create, evolve, and stay committed to their passion. 

Why I Love Dance UL 

This is why Dance UL has become my favorite club at the University of Limerick. I love its well-organized structure, the variety of classes offered, the warmth and kindness of the organizers, and the passion of each team member. Most of all, I love the love and unity that permeates the Dance UL team.