My first term at UCC

I still remember that sinking feeling in my stomach as I boarded my flight to Ireland. The thought of moving to a new country was both exhilarating and daunting at the same time. Though the initial few weeks were really tough (It took me almost 3 weeks to find a proper accommodation), my overall experience as an international student at UCC has been very positive.

The University staff were very helpful in dealing with issues regarding bank letters, residence permits and other official documents. The much-needed support helped me pass the new kid on the block phase with lesser butterflies in my stomach.

UCC and Cork, in general, has a vibrant multicultural environment. The vast majority of the people I have met, be it International or Irish people, have been really friendly. Interacting with peers from culturally diverse backgrounds not only gave me a global exposure but also gave me the opportunity to understand and appreciate different cultures and beliefs.

One of the best moments during this semester was dancing at the Cork cultural night. Given that I have never danced in my life before, dancing in front of such a huge audience was an amazing experience. I never knew Cork had such a vibrant Indian community. This fest helped me meet new people and forge new friendships.

Picture: Cork Culture Night 

Though I wasn't able to travel as extensively as I would have wanted to, because of my coursework and assignment schedules, I had the chance to visit Dublin during the Halloween weekend. The city looked lovely with a whole lot of events going on that piqued my interest. I also had the chance to go to Mizen Head which is at the south of Ireland. The place was serene and breathtakingly beautiful.

Picture: At Mizen Head 

On the whole, I had an amazing first term in terms of my experience in the University, the opportunity to make friends from around the world, and the chance to explore the beautiful country. I am extremely excited about the prospects of the next term, and can't wait to explore the country more and make delightful memories!

Vinetha Jagadeesan - MSc Data Science and Analytics 

Blog Post 3

It’s crazy how fast time flies.

As I’m typing this, I have just one more term left until I’m officially done with my master’s degree. I’m already done with my classes and exams and over the next couple of weeks I will be finalising my dissertation topic.

I still can't believe I will be leaving UCC and Cork pretty soon. As excited as I am to move on to pursue new endeavours, I can’t help but look back and reminisce of all the things I’ve done this year.

This term, in particular, has been really hectic with its fair share of late nights and early mornings (I was taking 7 courses this term!).  Job applications got quite overwhelming at times with those never ending forms, cover letters, essays and online interviews. But thanks to the guidance and help I received from UCC’s Career Service, I was able to secure a couple of interviews. 

In between all those lectures, labs, assignments, applications and deadlines I did manage to catch a break every now and then and try out new things. Celebrating St.Patrick’s Day in Ireland was a really wonderful experience and was something that I always wanted to do. To watch the sea of green wind through the streets of Cork was an exhilarating experience.

It’s hard to believe that my time at UCC is coming to an end.  I will definitely remember my time at UCC as some of the best days of my life and  I can safely say that I’ll be leaving this place with new friends, new life experiences, and a new degree.