Scholar Ambassador Motunrayo Ogunsugba shares reflections on life in Eire as a global pupil, providing private insights on constructing group, exploring new locations, and staying related to house via meals and tradition.
2024 has come and gone, and 2025 is effectively underway. A brand new 12 months at all times brings contemporary hope and pleasure for the probabilities forward. Final 12 months was my first full calendar 12 months in Eire, and it got here with its justifiable share of ups and downs. As I look ahead to what’s subsequent, I’ve been reflecting on the teachings I’ve realized and I’m decided to make my second 12 months in Eire much more memorable.
Considered one of my greatest objectives for this 12 months is to grow to be much more engaged on the College School Dublin (UCD) campus. Pondering again on the previous 12 months, a lot of my greatest experiences occurred as a result of I used to be energetic in several societies and golf equipment throughout campus. I used to be in a position to make new mates and set up a group of my very own, which I imagine is extremely essential for any worldwide pupil. These experiences additionally helped me construct a powerful private {and professional} community, which I hope will proceed to develop throughout 2025.
One other precedence for me is to discover extra of Eire’s pure magnificence. I’m actually keen about nature images, so I plan to journey extra throughout the nation, particularly to Galway, Wexford, Sligo and Clare. Eire’s public transport system is dependable and simple to navigate, which makes it easy to maneuver between counties. The persons are additionally genuinely pleasant and sometimes desperate to share the tales behind native landmarks and traditions. I will likely be sharing a few of my favorite pictures from final 12 months, and I’m hoping to seize much more gorgeous moments within the months forward.
A serious problem I confronted final 12 months was homesickness, particularly lacking the consolation of acquainted meals. However due to some adventures with mates, I found a number of African outlets and eating places round Dublin. Now I can recreate meals that make me really feel near house. This 12 months, I plan to cook dinner numerous Nigerian meals, and I might additionally like to discover dishes from different cultures, particularly Korean and Thai delicacies, that are simple to search out within the metropolis.
My first 12 months in Eire was a very good one, and I do know that with a extra open and assured mindset, the journey forward may be even higher. I encourage all worldwide college students to embrace new experiences and step outdoors their consolation zones. It’s the easiest way to make your time in Eire really unforgettable.
Scholar Ambassador Motunrayo Ogunsugba is finding out at College School Dublin through Training in Eire.
