Snapshots of a semester abroad.
With the academic year coming to an end, and subsequently our stay at MIC as international students too, we want to look back on our time, both academic and personal. Yet it is just as important to look ahead - and so we will share our future plans, which are influenced by experiences and opportunities we made here.
Annemarie Menche, Germany
For me, leaving Ireland will be a big change in environment, once again. After staying and studying here for almost eight months, this country has grown on me, unlike any other. I have found community and friends here, deepened and expanded my academic field of study and amassed a great deal of experiences; both on academic and personal levels. I am grateful for the opportunity to spend my stay abroad at MIC, Limerick.
Returning home to Germany will mean picking up work and independent studies till my next semester at my home university will start. I will continue my studies to become a teacher for secondary schools and hope to remain in contact with MIC. Studying here has shown me the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new things and being open to different cultures, ways of life and people. I can only recommend studying abroad to anyone who can, it is an amazing and unforgettable experience which will aid you in life.
Lili Hinner, Sweden
Can somebody tell me where the past 14 weeks just went? As I sit down to write my final blog post and finish up my last assignments, I can't help but feel a little shocked. The end of this Erasmus experience is fast approaching, and it's hard to believe that in just 22 days, I’ll be leaving Ireland. The time has flown by so quickly, and soon, my international friends and I will be heading back home, leaving this beautiful country behind.
It's strange to think about, especially since I still have so much to do before I go. Today, I counted the days left, and even though 22 days seems like a decent amount of time, I still feel like there's so much to accomplish such as final assignments, exams, and solo travels within Ireland that I want to experience with my friends while they’re still here.
Despite the looming deadlines, we’ve all agreed on one thing: We’re not going to waste any time feeling sad or distracted about leaving. We’re making the most of every moment we have left together. While everyone is focused on finishing assignments and preparing for exams, we’ve also found time to relax and enjoy each other’s company, like having a picnic in People’s Park under the sun.
On top of schoolwork, I’ve also been busy applying for summer jobs and internships back home. I want to make the most of the skills I’ve gained during my time here, especially the confidence I’ve built speaking English. This experience has truly had an impact on almost every area of my life, and I’m hopeful that it will help me land a job or internship that will enhance my CV.
As this experience draws to a close, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions. Yes, it’s sad to say goodbye to a place and people I’ve grown so fond of, but I see it as a sign that I had an amazing time. If I were counting the days until I could leave, that would be a sign of dissatisfaction, but instead, I feel grateful for everything I’ve learned and everyone I’ve met. The end of this journey is bittersweet, but I’m trying to embrace it with gratitude, knowing I’m leaving with a lifetime of memories.
Corridor with flowers in the Foundation Building.
A Word of Thanks
On behalf of everyone at MIC, I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our wonderful international student ambassadors. It’s been a real pleasure working with you this semester—your enthusiasm, insight, and support have made a lasting impact on the MIC community. We’re incredibly proud of all you’ve achieved and wish you every success in the exciting journeys that lie ahead. Go raibh míle maith agaibh, and best of luck for the future!
-Dr Sandra Aline Wagner, Inbound Student Coordinator
