Studying abroad can be both exciting and daunting. However, the International Welcome Programme is an excellent way to settle into student life at National College of Ireland as it will help you find your feet as you begin your academic studies in a new country. The programme provides valuable information, advice, and support to help new international students transition into life in Ireland.
Claudio travelled to Ireland from Chile to study the MSc in Artificial Intelligence for Business at NCI. Having previously studied English in Dublin, he returned to pursue his postgraduate studies here due to his love of the city and Irish culture.
Meet Claudio below and gain insights into the International Welcome Programme at NCI.
Meet Claudio Peñaloza
Hello! My name is Claudio Andres Gonzalez Peñaloza, I'm an international student from Puerto Montt, Chile. I'm currently studying the MSc in Artificial Intelligence for Business at NCI. I fell in love with Dublin city, the Irish culture, and its rich history while studying English in 2021. That experience inspired me to return to study a masters programme abroad.
I was impressed by NCI's prime location in the heart of Ireland's Capital city, surrounded by the Silicon Docks and Dublin’s financial district. I knew I had to come back to further my academic pursuits and study in Ireland.
NCI's Welcome Programme for International Students
If you're considering studying abroad, the International Welcome Programme is a must for new students at NCI. The programme offers a series of events that will help you get familiar with your new environment and ensure you are ready to start your studies in the best possible way. As someone who is relatively new to Ireland, I found it to be an essential part of my journey, as it allowed me to meet new people, explore new things, and learn more about this beautiful country. It will help you feel more comfortable and confident in your new surroundings.
NCI is an excellent destination for international students. The award-winning International Support Team is dedicated to ensuring that all new students have a pleasant and memorable experience. Thanks to their support and resources, college will feel like a familiar place and your new classmates will feel like old friends.
Now that you know how valuable it is to take part in the International Welcome Programme, I will share some insights into the events that take place during this time:
1. Welcome Meeting
The welcome meeting is scheduled for all new students a few days after arriving in Ireland. You will meet your peer mentors and other new international students like you. The meeting provides a warm and friendly atmosphere with helpful guides, incorporating technology and positive vibes. The session includes a tour of the campus, which is incredibly useful as you will know where to go on your first day of class following this.
My favourite part of the meeting is the checklist. It is very useful and gives you straightforward tasks to do as a new student. Attending the welcome meeting will help you form connections with people experiencing the same situation meaning you will build relationships from day one.
2. Highly Recommended Meetings
Moving to a foreign country can be a challenging experience as there are differences in culture as well as communicating in a different language. Highly recommended meetings focus on Essentials, Student Life, and Orientation, you will learn vital information and relevant answers to questions that arise during your first days in the country during these meetings.
3. Optional Meetings
Don’t forget to have fun! Optional meetings are a great way to explore and appreciate the beauty of Ireland. While you get out and explore Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes, like Phoenix Park, Howth, and Glendalough, you will meet students like yourself.
Even if you're not in the same programme, the shared laughter and memories linger. The greenery in Ireland is not just a concept but a beautiful reality! Attending these events can help you to appreciate and feel more connected with your new country.
A Piece of Advice
If you are studying abroad and experiencing different cultures, it's important to remember to enjoy it! The International Welcome Programme is a great way to get involved with the college community at NCI and meet new people. It not only helped me feel more comfortable waiting for classes to begin but it also reduced my stress levels by making college a familiar place.
Empathy and camaraderie go a long way in facing new challenges and participating in the programme offers just that. You can find smiles, stories, tips, and understanding from people who have faced or are currently facing similar issues.
Don't miss this opportunity to be access help and to support others. Arrange your schedule, attend events and learn why studying in Ireland, especially at NCI, is worth it. If you are a new international student to NCI, don’t forget to check the International Welcome Programme page to participate.
If you would like to study abroad, NCI is the right option for you! We offer courses in Business, Computing, Education and Psychology. Learn more about studying at NCI as an international student.
