"Ireland as an English speaking country in Europe was one of my best study destinations due its good quality education system, world-ranking institutions, unique culture, friendly people, ancient architecture, beautiful landscapes, and arts."
Before I moved to Ireland I:
I completed my bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Osmania University, India in first division and with a distinction through Indian Council for Cultural Relation (ICCR) special scholarship scheme for Afghanistan from 2011-2015. The journey of my bachelor studies in India with excellent achievements was tough, but the opportunity served as a high stimulant and empowering factor to think of and aim to achieve a quality education.
After my return from India, I worked with different ministries such Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development, Ministry of Agriculture Irrigation and Livestock as well as other national and international organizations in various capacities for almost seven years in Afghanistan. Apart from my studies and works, I have been also an active part time volunteer with various social forums and academic bodies to meet with people from various nationalities, cultures and backgrounds.
These activities helped me a lot to develop my knowledge, networking, leadership, communication skills and provided my service for the community and people to act as model leaders for the coming generation. In the year 2022, I received the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) award through which I am currently pursuing my master's degree of MSc in Construction Project Management at South East Technological University (SETU) Waterford campus.
This is one of the world’s most prestigious fully funded scholarships program awarded each year to the top 60 qualified applicants from around the globe.
I chose to study in Ireland because:
Ireland as an English speaking country in Europe was one of my best study destinations due its good quality education system, world-ranking institutions, unique culture, friendly people, ancient architecture, beautiful landscapes, and arts. Ireland also has a number of study and career development opportunities for students such as two years stay-back work permit visa after graduation and excellent scholarships for supporting your studies from both government and higher education institutions.
Ireland has a low cost of living especially for students compared to many other European countries. It is also one of the world’s richest and safest countries where you will always feel like living in your own home country. International students in Ireland can easily travel to many other European countries for exploring while they are here.
When you are studying in Ireland, besides your studies, you will have a lot of extra circular opportunities for your communication, leadership, and networking skills development. I am currently also the International Student Ambassador with the Education in Ireland’s International Student Ambassador Program.
Some of the highlights of my experience in Waterford include:
Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city filled with historic sites and cultural heritage, walk in the steps of the Vikings. It’s safe and welcoming student-friendly city and has great shopping center, culture, friendly people, culture events and festivals. It is also recognised for its natural, rugged beauty and geological heritage.
It has a compact city centre where you can go everywhere on foot, by bike or on excellent public transport.
The most interesting cultural differences for me are:
The culture of Ireland includes language, literature, music, art, folklore, cuisine, and sport associated with Ireland and the Irish people.
How I benefited from moving to Waterford/Carlow/Wexford from my home country:
I can proudly say that as GOI-IES scholar, I am currently studying at SETU Waterford campus which is one of the largest and most academically reputed state universities in Ireland.
My advice for international students considering studying here:
I strongly recommend for international students to come to Ireland for their higher studies which has a lot of excellent education and career development opportunities.
My college experience also included:
Friendships / social activity was important factor
Moving to live in Waterford/Carlow/Wexford
Clubs and socs participation
Speaking to staff/students as part of my decision making