Mytripriya Muralidhar, MSc Food Science

Website
Courses

Mytripriya Muralidhar, MSc Food Science

Mytripriya Muralidhar is from India, and is studying for her MSc in Food Science at University College Cork.

What made you choose Ireland and UCC, and how has/did the experience matched your expectations?

I've always wanted to do a Master's in Food Science, and Ireland felt like the right place to do it. The course at University College Cork stood out to me because it was interesting and also aligned with what I want to do in the future. When thinking about my career, I wanted to choose a place that would give me good opportunities, regardless of the path I choose, whether that's research, getting a job after graduation, or pursuing higher studies.

Ireland, especially UCC, offers strong prospects and multiple opportunities. So far, it has met my expectations quite well as the quality of education, the academic exposure and the various career prospects only reassure me that I made the right choice.

How has your experience been settling into life in Ireland, especially in terms of community, culture, and feeling at home?

It wasn't until I moved here that I truly experienced what "Comparison is the thief of joy" means. At first, I kept comparing everything to life back home. But over time, the chaos I was used to slowly gave way to calm. The strong sense of community, the welcoming culture, and the warmth of people, along with the events that always bring people together, helped me gradually transition from feeling like a stranger to truly finding a sense of belonging.

What has been the most positive or surprising part of studying and living in Ireland so far?

What stood out to me was how nice and approachable people are. People here don't hesitate to help, and they make you feel very welcome.

How is your experience studying here helping you grow personally and build the confidence you need as you plan your future career?

Time management is something I hadn't really been able to crack before. Living here on my own, and having to manage my finances, balance classes and assignments, while also taking care of myself, has helped me improve it significantly. Learning to manage my time has definitely made a big difference.

What kinds of career support: such as internships, industry connections, or guidance from the careers team—have been most valuable to you during your time here?

The job fairs and graduate recruitment festival have been very helpful in introducing companies in our sector and the kind of employment they offer. Getting to meet recruiters also helped me understand what they look for in potential employees. The weekly newsletter, From Campus to Careers, from the UCC Career Services, is also very useful, as it informs me about student jobs available on campus and graduate roles that are relevant to me.

Tell us about one moment from your time here that makes you smile when you think about it?

The first time I got lost still makes me smile. I was just trying to find a grocery store, and Google Maps kept trying to convince me that a parking lot was where I'd be able to buy tomatoes.

What do you wish you had known before coming here that would reassure or excite future students?

It's okay to be scared. The efforts you've put in to get here, with so much on the line, will all be worth it because you will get to know yourself in ways you couldn't have imagined, and that's something many people don't get the chance to experience. It's a privilege and an amazing opportunity, one that you shouldn't let go of.

Back to Hear From Our Students

College of Science, Engineering and Food Science

Coláiste na hEolaíochta, na hInnealtóireachta agus na hEolaíochta Bia

Block E, Level 3, Food Science Building, UCC, Cork, T12 YN60.

In This Section