Meet Jiatao Liu, our student ambassador, as she shares her experience as an international student and explains why she chose Ireland

Did you know that Ireland is ranked among the top 20 countries in the world for quality of life, peace, and human development? Ireland is not only a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage, but also a hub of innovation and education. As a Chinese student at University College Dublin, I have experienced first-hand the benefits of studying in Ireland. In this article, I will share some reasons why Ireland is a great choice for international students. 

 Academic: Ireland is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, such as Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork, and University College Dublin. These universities offer a wide range of courses in various fields of study, from arts and humanities to engineering and sciences. As a student of Food Engineering, I have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, where I can conduct experiments and participate in research projects. This semester, I joined a research team in the Food Engineering school and participated in an odour assessment. This allowed me to learn from experts and apply my knowledge in a practical setting. 

Ireland is a country that values diversity and inclusivity, and respects the rights and dignity of all people. As an international student, I feel safe and comfortable living and studying in Ireland. I have made many friends from different countries and cultures, and learned a lot from them. I have also participated in various cultural and social events, such as festivals, concerts, and sports. One of the highlights of my experience was celebrating the Chinese New Year with my fellow students and the local community. We organized a parade, a lantern show, and a feast, and shared our traditions and customs with the Irish people. 

In conclusion, Ireland is a wonderful country to study in, as it offers academic excellence, diverse and inclusive culture, and affordable and convenient living. Studying in Ireland has been one of the best decisions of my life, as it has opened up many opportunities and possibilities for me. I am happy and proud to be a student of University College Dublin, and I look forward to pursuing my PhD here after my graduation. If you are looking for a rewarding and enriching educational experience, I highly recommend choosing Ireland as your study destination. 

Jiatao Liu is studying Sustainable energy and green technologies at UCD via Education in Ireland.