Sukalpa Dey, MSc Food Science

12 Mar 2026

What made you choose Ireland and UCC, and how did the experience match your expectations? 

I was already working in Ireland with 14 years of international experience in the dairy and food industry. 

UCC is a global leader in dairy and food science, with some of the world’s top researchers (including 3 of the top 10 dairy researchers) and exceptional education. Studying at UCC had always been a dream of mine because it offered not just excellent academics but also great opportunities to build professional connections. The MSc in Food Science at UCC helped me grow my skills and gave me a broader, global perspective on food products. 

My time at UCC exceeded all my expectations. The Professors/lecturers are highly knowledgeable and approachable, creating an environment that encourages critical thinking and innovation. Through solving real-world industry problems, hands-on lab work, and guided research, I’ve improved my technical, analytical, and research abilities. Outside of academics, the lively campus community and multicultural environment have made my experience in Ireland both professionally rewarding and personally enriching. 

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

Settling in Ireland has been a positive experience. From the start, people were friendly, open, and supportive, making it easier to adapt. The strong sense of community on campus and in the city quickly made me feel at home. 

Living in Cork has been enjoyable. The city’s vibrant yet safe atmosphere made it easy to connect with diverse people. Through university activities, group studies, and daily interactions, I formed new friendships with both international and Irish students. 

Irish culture values inclusivity, balance, and wellbeing, which I greatly appreciated as an international student. Cork is called the cultural capital of Ireland and I come from Kolkata which is cultural capital of India hence this welcoming culture, supportive university, and strong community made Ireland feel like my second home easily. 

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

The strong connection between academic learning and real-world industry in Ireland turns education into practical action. I saw firsthand how classroom and lab lessons directly connect to the industry and everyday life. The partnership between UCC and Ireland's dairy/food industry made my knowledge not just relevant but also immediately useful. 

What was the most positive or surprising part of studying and living in Ireland? 

At University College Cork, I was impressed by how friendly and supportive the academic staff are. The lecturers genuinely care about helping students grow and are always happy to share their expertise, creating a very engaging learning environment. The focus on technical skills, critical thinking, research, and problem-solving has helped me improve both academically and professionally. 

On a personal level, I was deeply touched by the warmth of the people and the strong sense of community in Ireland. Living in Cork offers a perfect mix of student/family life, culture, and quality of living. The openness, inclusivity, and respect for different cultures made settling in much easier than I expected. My time at UCC and in Cork has been both enriching and unforgettable. 

How did your time studying here shape your personal growth and confidence, and how has that influenced the career path you are on today? 

Studying at UCC played an important role in helping me grow personally and build my confidence. Adjusting to a different academic and cultural environment after being 14 years out of academic field taught me to be more independent, resilient, and proactive. These challenges pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me become more confident, both in my personal life and my career. 

The program at UCC encouraged me to think critically, solve problems, and do independent research. This boosted my confidence in using scientific knowledge to solve real-world problems. Through lab work, group projects, and research-based learning, I not only gained technical skills but also learned how to clearly share ideas, work well with others, and take initiative. 

This growth has directly influenced my career. The skills, mindset, and research experience I gained during my time at UCC prepared me to confidently explore opportunities in the current technical sales manager role in Novonesis. It also gave me the confidence to take on new challenges in an international setting. 

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? 

While I did not take part in formal career internships at UCC, studying Food Science alongside my professional career added significant value to my career. The program strengthened my technical knowledge and credibility, which helped me engage more confidently with customers and many of whom are alumni of UCC Food Science and currently working in the Irish dairy industry. 

Being part of the UCC alumni community also helped me build meaningful professional connections and gain mutual respect with fellow graduates in the sector. This shared academic background created a strong sense of trust and professional rapport, which has been especially valuable in my current work and ongoing career development. 

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

Professor Paul McSweeney’s lectures were extraordinary. I studied his book on cheese during our B. Tech in Dairy Technology in Indian University, never imagining that one day I would experience his lectures firsthand. 

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

I wish I had known just how supportive and understanding the academic environment would be at University College Cork. The lecturers and staff genuinely want students to succeed and are approachable, flexible, and encouraging, especially when balancing studies with work or personal commitments. 

Future students can be ensured that they will be joining a welcoming, multicultural community where collaboration is valued over competition. Studying Food Science at UCC not only provides a strong academic foundation, but also builds confidence, resilience, and meaningful connections that extend well beyond the classroom to the world of Food and Dairy.