Phengheng Khorn

MEd in Digital Leadership in Education

From: Cambodia

Having travelled from Cambodia to study in Ireland, Phengheng has quickly found a sense of belonging at Mary Immaculate College. “I’ve only been here six months, but I’ve learned so much already,” he shares. Among his favourite modules are Digital Literacy and Wellbeing and Digital Connectivity, which gave him new insights into his field.

What surprised him most? “The people – everyone is so helpful, from the International Office to the professors. Allison helped me with my application and immigration documents. My lecturer even holds regular catch-up meetings just for international students.”

He lives just ten minutes away at Ashdown and enjoys spending time on campus, especially in the gym and canteen. “The food actually tastes good! I was surprised – I thought European food would be bland,” he laughs. When asked what advice he’d give to other Cambodian students, he says: “Don’t just stick to the big cities. Limerick is peaceful and green – it’s the perfect place to focus and enjoy nature.”

Jacob Froehlich

Bachelor of Philosophy and Theology

From: USA

For Jacob, choosing Mary Immaculate College meant stepping far outside his comfort zone – and he’s glad he did. “Before this, I was set on staying close to home in Florida. But coming to Ireland has been the adventure of a lifetime.”

Jacob has immersed himself in college life, particularly through MIDAS, the student theatre society. “We put on two shows a year. This semester we’re doing Legally Blonde, and I’m playing Elle’s dad, Dewey, and Nikos. It’s a lot of fun.” MIDAS has become his second family. “Even if I’m not familiar with a play, I still want to be involved because the community is just so welcoming.”

He lives nearby in a shared house for international students, enjoying friendships with people from the US, Palestine, and Tanzania. “It’s such a unique experience to live and study with people from all over the world.”

When it comes to campus life, Jacob appreciates the contrast between the historical foundation buildings and the modern Lime Tree Theatre. “It’s a beautiful mix of old and new. I love hanging out in the canteen – it reminds me of something out of a boarding school movie, but in a cosy way.”

Surprisingly, one of Jacob’s favourite things about Ireland is the weather. “People think I’m crazy for saying this, but I love the cool, rainy climate – it’s such a relief after Florida’s heat!”

His advice to future international students? “Just do it. Take the leap. You’ll stay in touch with your loved ones and find a whole new community here. Ireland is friendly, beautiful, and you’ll make memories that last a lifetime.”

Annemarie Menche

From: Germany

Studying: Primary Education

Annemarie has found Mary Immaculate College to be a place of personal connection and growth. “My professors have been so encouraging. I didn’t expect such a warm welcome and personal connection from them.”

One of her most memorable experiences was a trip to the Aran Islands with her Irish culture class. “It was incredible to see the landscapes and historical sites we’d studied – it really brought the learning to life.”

Annemarie was initially worried about fitting in, but she’s since found the Irish to be incredibly friendly. “The people in Ireland are super friendly. Everyone says hello – even people you don’t know!”

Reflecting on her time at the college, she shares, “I was worried about fitting in, but I’ve made great friends and found such a supportive environment here. I’d definitely recommend Mary Immaculate College to any international student.”

Yelyzaveta Shakhova

From: Ukraine

Studying: Media and Communication (via Erasmus)

Yelyzaveta was pleasantly surprised by how quickly she made close friends upon arriving. “In my very first week, I already had a close group of friends. There’s a big international community, and everyone is so welcoming.”

She’s thoroughly enjoyed the campus life and living at the City Campus. “I didn’t expect to love the campus life so much. It really feels like home. We cook together, we go on trips, we support each other.”

In the classroom, Yelyzaveta has found the lecturers to be genuinely invested in students’ success. “There’s so much interaction in the classroom here – you’re not just a number. The lecturers really care and want to help you grow.”

This experience has been transformative for her, both personally and academically. “This experience helped me grow in confidence. I came here on my own, and now I feel ready to take on anything.”

Lili Hinner

From: Sweden

Studying: Bachelor of Design and Communication (Exchange Semester)

Lili’s journey at Mary Immaculate College has been filled with cultural exploration and personal growth. “I go on trips with other international students to explore the rich culture. We have girls' night & film night together - it's really nice.”

She was pleasantly surprised by the warmth of the Irish people. “My first impression of Irish people was: you’re so chatty and kind! In Sweden we’re a bit more reserved, so this was such a lovely change.”

Living at the City Campus has allowed Lili to form close bonds with fellow students. “We’ve created a little international family. I even host projector film nights!”

The supportive nature of the lecturers has also been a standout feature for her. “The lecturers here are really supportive -they answer emails so fast and are always ready to help. It’s a great place to study.”

Her time in Ireland has even transformed some of her personal habits. “Ireland even turned me into a tea drinker! I used to be all about coffee, but now it’s tea.”

Looking back on her experience, Lili encourages others to take the leap and study abroad. “If you're thinking of studying abroad - do it on your own. You’ll grow so much. I came here a bit antisocial, and now I’ve completely opened up. Best decision I ever made.”

She concludes with a reflection on the impact studying abroad has had on her. “It’s a great opportunity for self-discovery. Studying abroad opens your world - and yourself - in ways you don’t expect.”

To find out more about studying at Mary Immaculate College, visit the Whyistudyhere.com website and filter for Ireland!

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