Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

A personal reflection on community, growth and support as an international student and a current committee member of a society here at the university.  

When I first set foot at the University of Limerick as an international student, I had no idea what to expect. I was very much excited to begin this new chapter, but at the same time, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was starting over – in a brand-new place, far away from everything I was accustomed to, back at my home in India. 

University is meant to be a time of growth, learning and connection. But here is the truth: it is normal for those connections to take time, and when you find yourself miles away from home like I did, it’s extremely easy to feel alone in the beginning. 

But all of that changed when I joined the WISTEM2D Society at UL in my first year here. 

Starting Out: First year Feels  

I joined the society during my first year, simply looking for a way to meet new people and feel a little more grounded. What I found instead was so much more than just a society.  

The society wasn’t just about STEM — although we did have good workshops and networking sessions. It was more about creating a space for women to feel heard, seen and supported. Whether it was through casual events, guest speakers or group chats: I felt like I was part of something meaningful right away. 

And for someone who was still settling into a new country and new surroundings, that meant everything. 

From Member to Committee  

Now that I’m in my second year, I was able to join the committee and being behind the scenes has given me an even deeper appreciation of what we do and how we do it. 

Our committee meetings are honestly some of my favorite parts of the week. Even though it’s technically “work”, they feel like group catch-up. We talk about our events and logistics – but also about our classes, weekends, what we’re struggling with and what we’re excited about. 

It’s like having a little family within the bigger community at UL. We hype each other up and love working with each other, It’s perfect. 

Being on the committee has helped me build leadership skills, and how to plan and coordinate and work with a team, but more than that it’s helped me grow as a person. I have stepped into roles I never thought I’d be confident enough for. And I have made some of the best, most meaningful friendships of my life. 

No Trophy Needed: The Ball Night Vibes  

One of my favorite core memories was our night at the Clubs and Societies Ball. We might not have won anything but that didn’t matter. We dressed up, danced, laughed and celebrated all that we’ve done in the past year and all that we’ve become. That night was pure joy – because we had each other. The pictures from that evening? Pure happiness. 

It was the kind of night you look back on and just smile. Because it was all about us spending time together.  

Events That Bring Us Together  

One of the best parts about being in a society is that there’s always something happening every week — and every event no matter how big or small brings us closer as a group. 

From casual hangouts to collaborative chaos, our calendar has a bit of everything:  

• Movie nights: The perfect way to relax and bond after a stressful week. We grab snacks, get cozy and enjoy something light-hearted together. It’s like a mini escape in the middle of a semester. 

• Build Bridge Collab with Math’s Soc: This collaboration was far from one of the best collabs I have seen so far – a hilarious and surprisingly intense challenge where we had to build a bridge using paper and test out the strength. It was one of the most creative and chaotic collaborations.  

• Networking Events: These gave us the space to connect with women working in STEM industries, gain insights and see ourselves in their stories. It made the future feel a little closer and a little less intimidating.  

What made these events special wasn’t just the activities – it was the people. It was all shared laughter, new friendships, snacks and everyone cheering each other on. 

Our Biggest Moment of the Year – Our National Seminar   

While all our events were incredible in their own way, one stood out as the highlight of the year — Our Annual National Seminar.  

It was held at the university,and it was a huge day for us. We hosted students and guest speakers from all over Ireland – guests from different universities and professional STEM fields. 

From planning the agenda to coordinating with speakers to setting up everything, the committee worked incredibly hard behind the scenes, and it was so worth it.  

The day entailed: inspiring keynote talks from guest speakers, student speakers sharing their journey in academia, networking events, and even a fun Kahoot event!!  

It was powerful, emotional and honestly, it was kind of surreal to look around and realize we were able to accomplish something on this scale.  

What I’d Tell Anyone Joining a Society 

Maybe you’re new to the university or maybe you’ve been here for quite some time already. 

I would suggest you join the Clubs and Societies here at UL. Show up and I can assure you that you would have signed up for something that is worth your while.  

Even if it’s a little scary, even if you think it’s too late and you might not be sure. Because sometimes, you don’t know what you are looking for unless you take the first step.  

I didn’t expect to find a community like this, but I am so glad I did; UL doesn’t just feel like a university. It feels like a home away from home. 

And I’d like to thank everyone in the WISTEM2D Society for all the memories we created together this year. You’ve made this chapter of my life so special. 

Here’s too more memories, and more random chaos in between. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my university years here — growing, learning and building something meaningful together. 

                                                          THANK YOU