Daily life in Ireland

During my time in Ireland, my life roughly consisted of attending classes, working, and traveling. I focused more on traveling, so whenever I had free time, I would travel to other European countries. In addition to traveling abroad, I also often strolled through parks, beaches, and cliffs near Dublin, enjoying the beautiful local scenery.

Goals after returning to Malaysia

Now that I'm back in Malaysia, my next goal is to fully dedicate myself to work and studies. I've already enjoyed the life I wanted and experienced the things I wanted to experience. My current goal is to achieve excellent grades in university and I hope to have the opportunity to work in Europe in the future.

My takeaways and reflections from Ireland...

During my eight months living in Ireland, I experienced a completely different lifestyle and encountered all sorts of people, things, and their unique culture and customs. For example, St. Patrick's Day allowed me to feel the passion and exuberance of the Irish people, an atmosphere quite different from Malaysia's National Day (which is more solemn, while theirs is relaxed and joyful).

During this time, I successfully achieved my goal of coming to Ireland:

- Improve English proficiency from B1 to C1

- Traveled to about 8 European countries

- I deposited a satisfactory amount.

Interestingly, my friends even said I've grown taller!

Future plans

After traveling in Ireland and other European countries, I've discovered that there are actually many opportunities. Originally planning to work in the US, I now believe that some European countries like Ireland, the UK, Luxembourg, or Switzerland are relatively cost-effective work locations (considering culture, exchange rates, geographical location, and safety). Therefore, I will include Europe in my future career development plans.

Originally, I planned to complete my language course in Ireland and then pursue further studies in the UK, but ultimately chose Australia. The reason was that the Financial Technology course I wanted to study was offered by an Australian university (UNSW), while the UK university that partners with my Malaysian university did not. Furthermore, UNSW's business school is excellent. Considering the exchange rate and distance from home, I ultimately decided on Australia.

In summary...

I'm studying at the IBAT school in Dublin. The learning experience at IBAT is excellent. The teachers are very dedicated, and some even teach extracurricular material. Because I'm taking an IELTS course, I spend most of my time in the classroom, but students from other classes share their weekly extracurricular activities, which I find very helpful! IBAT's management is also very efficient, and the front desk staff are very polite.

This study abroad experience in Ireland was a significant chapter in my life—distinct, wonderful, and special. Although short, the experience was extraordinary and well worth it! I highly recommend it to my friends.