Student Ambassador Angel Alsumaiti from Kuwait shares a journey to Ireland, studying Zoology at Trinity College Dublin and discovering unexpected opportunities for growth — both inside and outside the classroom.
Introduction: A Dream Beyond Boundaries
When I was growing up, I was certain I wanted to study abroad, as I never felt I had the right environment to grow both academically and personally. I knew it would be challenging to find the right education and setting. My older sister, who studied in Ireland at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) in Dublin, inspired me. Every time she came back home, we noticed her personal growth, how eloquently she spoke, and the knowledge she had gained.
A Role Model in Ireland
My sister always spoke positively about Ireland, calling it her second home and praising its education system. She graduated with an honours degree and immediately joined the emergency department during the peak of the COVID outbreak in 2020. She often said that Irish-trained doctors are equipped to handle any situation, which allowed her to excel professionally.
Studying in Ireland didn’t just give her a great education — it made her fall in love with medicine, as challenging as it is. She always worked with a smile, and her patients consistently had positive experiences. This dedication earned her a spot on the medical board in Kuwait after just two years of work. Watching her thrive, I knew Ireland was the best choice for me.
The Choice: Why Ireland?
Initially, I visited Ireland just to see my sister, with no plans to study there. However, the short time I spent in the country made me fall in love with it. I ended up extending my trip — Ireland’s safe, welcoming environment helped me feel like I could express myself and grow personally. It was then that I decided to work towards studying in Ireland.
A New Beginning: Adapting to Ireland
When I first arrived to study at Trinity College Dublin, adapting to such a different environment was challenging. However, the welcoming Irish people and the vibrant culture quickly made me feel at home. Over two years, I’ve grown more confident and stepped out of my comfort zone, experiencing how wonderful life in Ireland can be.
Opportunities Await: Achievements in Ireland
In my third year, I applied to be a Global Ambassador at Trinity — a role I love because it involves helping international students. This position also opened doors for me to work with Education in Ireland, which gave me the opportunity to write this blog and share my love for studying here.
Moreover, I achieved another lifelong dream: becoming a fashion model. For the past two years, I’ve worked as a model, and a few months ago, I walked in my first fashion show, thanks to an opportunity from the Trinity Fashion Society. This experience shows how studying in Ireland can open unexpected doors.
The Takeaway: A Journey of Growth
My sister’s and my stories are proof that people can thrive in whatever they are passionate about. Ireland has given both of us opportunities that we will always be thankful for. These opportunities have ensured a bright medical career for my sister and opened a world of possibilities for me.
If my sister and I could step out of our comfort zones and create a future here, so can you — or anyone considering making Ireland their new home.
Angel Alsumaiti is studying at Trinity College Dublin via Education in Ireland