Eunice Duyen

Hi, I'm Duyen (or Eunice) from Danang, Vietnam. Arriving at Maynooth University to pursue a Master of Arts in International Development marks an exciting chapter in my life. As a proud recipient of the Government of Ireland – International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES), I’m deeply grateful for this incredible opportunity to expand my knowledge in a new field (building on my previous focus on Asian Studies) and contribute to creating a better world. Every day, I learn something new—whether it’s in the classroom, during discussions with my peers, or through the intercultural experiences in Maynooth. Last but not least, I’ve also fallen in love with traditional Irish music and cuisine, which I believe serve as universal languages of connection.

Jagadish Venkata Phanindra Yenneti

Namaste! I’m Phani, a passionate business consultant pursuing my Masters in Business Analytics from Maynooth University as an International Student. I come from India and have over six awesome years of professional experience. I’d like to travel to new places and I’m loving my time here at the University and in Ireland

Olusolape Sonuga

Hi, I’m Solape! Originally from Nigeria, I’ve recently made Maynooth my home as I pursue a master’s degree in Rights and Social Policy. My passion lies in tackling inequality, with a focus on women and youth inclusion and human capital development in Africa. I’m inspired by how inclusive and human-centric policies can drive sustainable change, and I’m eager to apply these insights to challenges in Nigeria and the global south. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading, exploring Ireland’s beautiful landscapes, uncovering its rich history, and engaging with its vibrant culture. Maynooth has quickly become a special place for me, and I’m thrilled to share my experiences as I learn and grow in this beautiful university town!

Qin Lu

Hi, I'm Qin from Shanghai, China.

I am currently pursuing a postgraduate degree in Robotics and Embedded AI at Maynooth University. This interdisciplinary program blends computer science, electronic engineering, mathematics, and more, featuring cutting-edge courses such as machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, robotics control theory, and robotic sensing, along with hands-on labs and projects.

Beyond academics, I have a wide range of hobbies, including running, hiking, playing the violin, ballet, and skateboarding. I also enjoy organizing group activities and would be thrilled to have you join us!

Emma Elizabeth Willard

Hi, I'm Emma! Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, I'm pursuing a Master's in Literatures of Engagement, where I'm delighted to further my passion for ecocriticism, especially in modern horror. Ireland has been the perfect place for my love of the environment and literature, and I've found that Maynooth strikes a great balance between small town and big university. I’ve really enjoyed making it my home—competing on MU's dance teams, hiking to nearby views, and writing in the cafes!

Katheryn Carolina Aymerich Díaz

Hi! I’m Katheryn, a second-year BSc Psychology student with a love for exploring the mysteries of the human mind. Originally from Venezuela, I’ve spent half my life in Spain, and have been living in Ireland for the past two years. When I’m not diving into my studies, you’ll probably find me reading, writing stories, sketching, or getting lost in music.

Abbegael Fulton

Hi, I am Abbegael! I'm originally from Canada, but I've been calling Maynooth my home for the past four years. I studied medieval Irish history here, completing both my undergraduate and master’s degrees. My love for history has taken me all over Ireland, exploring as many castles and medieval churches as I can. Living in Maynooth has been a wonderful experience, and it has truly become a special place for me.

Dalal Riyadh A Almuhaideb

I'm Dalal, currently pursuing a PhD in Education. Jubail is my hometown, and I feel fortunate to call Saudi Arabia home. I have a passion for hiking and love exploring the various towns and villages throughout Ireland. In my free time, I enjoy immersing myself in Ireland's rich culture, heritage, and local community activities. Ireland offers many opportunities to explore yourself, discover new hobbies, and build your future.

Thu Thi Phuong Huong Bui

Xin chào! I’m Thu Thi from Veitnam.
I am a very happy Government of Ireland-IES Scholarship holder studying a Master of Science and majoring in Finance at Maynooth University. Since arriving in Ireland I have been pleasantly marveling at the cultural changes compared to home and am enormously enjoying my time at Maynooth and have met some really wonderful people.

Elisabeth Koopal

Hoi! I’m Elisabeth Koopal from Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
I’m on Erasmus exchange at Maynooth University and I'm studying International Development. I'm on the committee of several societies, such as the Erasmus Student Network, and I'm an advisory group member of the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS). I live with a local family and try to learn more about Irish culture. Therefore I often make trips across the island and I follow Irish language classes. Lastly, I adore Seamus, Maynooth University’s library cat!

Elvio Malawene

I come from Mozambique. Portuguese and English including Guitonga are my mother tongues.
I'm currently studying for a Post Graduate/Master in Adult and Community Education here at Maynooth University. My previous Qualification is a BA (Hons) in English Teaching as Foreign Language- At the Pedagogical University of Mozambique
When I have some time off! I love to sing, read and play soccer. I also love to carry out some Youth leadership/volunteer work and help out the Young Life Africa and Middle East · Fulbright Alumni, Sustainability Ambassador in Mozambique.

Iselina Hernandez

Hola, I'm Iselina, a passionate project manager with a deep interest in business and computer science.
Throughout my years of professional experience, I've never stopped seeking knowledge and personal
growth. Now, I'm pursuing a master's degree in Strategy and Innovation at Maynooth University, where
I've discovered a supportive and diverse community that celebrates intellectual curiosity.

Thalita Emanuelle De Nazaré

My name is Thalita, and I'm from Brazil! I am a PhD student at Maynooth University's Department of Electronic Engineering and a member of the Centre for Ocean Energy Research (COER). I was awarded the Women in STEM (WISH) Hume Fellowship in 2022. I am enthusiastic about everything related to education. Last but not least, I love cats.

Siddhant Johari

Hi, I am Siddhant. I am currently pursuing Masters in Strategic Marketing. I have previously worked for 4 years as a Senior Manager in an MNC company in India. I am also a certified nutritionist from International Sports Science Association(USA). I also train people in my spare time to achieve their fitness goals.

Courtney Gehle

Hi I'm Courtney Gehle and I'm originally from South Africa. I am a student in Maynooth University's MA in International Development programme.
↓ Click on the symbol below to view blog posts from Courtney

Noor Albarudi

Hello, my name is Noor Albarudi and I am an international student from South Africa studying BA (accounting and finance) at Maynooth University!
↓ Click on the symbol below to view blog posts from Noor

Emmeline Joana Antonio

Emmeline Antonio is an international undergraduate student currently enrolled in the Business and Management program at Maynooth University. She is a native from New York City, in the USA, with Colombian ancestral roots. Before studying in Maynooth, Emmeline had been studying and working in post- production in film, in Madrid, Spain. She is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, and very much has a great love of languages. Emmeline has fallen in love with the Irish culture and considers Ireland her new home.
↓ Click on the symbol below to view blog posts from Emmeline

Jordan Cole

Jordan is currently an undergraduate Business Management, a native of Ireland, Jordan currently writes for Frontier Current Affairs, a web news publisher and is part of the Young Leaders Council 2021 within the U.S Embassy Dublin. Jordan hopes that more students from Ireland can engage on the blog about their experience and international ties college has brought to them.
↓ Click on the symbol below to view blog posts from Jordan

Lorraine Helen Stanciu

Hi there, my name is Helen Lorraine Stanciu (officially on my passport) but I prefer going by Lorraine. I’m of Romanian ancestry and I was born in Ireland. I’m currently studying law and business and am in my second year of the programme. Writing has always been something I enjoyed, especially creative writing. Despite enjoying the arts and being a creative person, I decided to pursue a bachelors in law and business for a bright future. I love learning more about other cultures and languages and immersing myself in them where possible.
↓ Click on the symbol below to view blog posts from Lorraine Helen

Tess

Tess Wobbe is an international student from America, who is currently studying a Bachelors in English and Anthropology. She is a world traveler and has lived in multiple countries before living in Ireland. However, she hopes to stay here for her Masters in Psychology and get to explore more of what Ireland has to offer. After traveling so much of her life, the community she has found here makes it difficult to picture leaving.
↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Tess

Siddhartha Roy

Siddhartha Roy is a graduate of Lloyd law college from where he completed my integrated bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws(B.A.LLB). As a native of Calcutta, India, Siddhartha is currently pursuing his Master of international Business Law at the National University of Ireland, Maynooth.
Siddhartha has worked for two years as a litigating civil lawyer. He has appeared and argued numerous cases on behalf of multinational corporations of high repute and as well as for private individuals. As a lawyer he has the experience of drafting a variety of legal documents. Throughout the duration of his legal career in India, he has provided free legal aid to those clients who were in need.
↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Siddhartha

Thais Camolesi Guimarães

Thais Camolesi Guimarães is a postgraduate student at Maynooth University. Natural from the city of Sao Paulo, in Brazil, she has done her undergraduate in Environmental Management at the University of Sao Paulo and has worked for three years at a Think Tank developing applied research on the topics of sustainable finance, ecosystem services, and climate change adaptation. Now she has crossed the ocean as a scholar from the Government of Ireland to study a Masters course in Climate Change.
↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Thais

Fred Valdez

Fred Valdez Ameneyro is a Mechatronics Engineer from the City of México.
He is about to finish his Master's Degree by Research in Artificial Intelligence at his home university, the National Autonomous of Mexico. He did a 6 months long research stay at Maynooth University, and felt so happy here, that he will stay and pursue his Ph.D. within our Computer Science Department.
Always available to play a chess match or any other board game, Fred loves spicy food, chilling out with friends, and movies.

↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Fred

Yumi Shimizu

Yumi Shimizu is an international student from her home school of Nihon University in Japan. Currently she is studying economics at Maynooth University. She will be staying in Ireland until the end of January.
She is positive that this blog will be a great opportunity to share her precious experiences with people in Ireland.

↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Yumi

Mayu Otaki

Mayu hails from Japan and is an International Foundation Programme student at Maynooth University, studying Maths, Business and Economics as well as English to meet the academic requirements for third level education. She intends to begin her undergraduate studies in International Development after finishing the International Foundation Programme at Maynooth University. Mayu spent a year in an Irish secondary school and is enjoying continuing her studies in Ireland through to third level.

↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Mayu

Hoa Nguyen

Coming from Vietnam, Hoa has had ten years of working as development practitioners in different areas and with diverse groups of people in the country. She, in particular, has great interest in promoting the enjoyment of human rights and gender equality of community people. Hoa is currently taking the full-time Master course on International Development at Maynooth University. This is the first time Hoa has been in Ireland. She quickly settled down in the new place. To be a sociable person, Hoa is really eager to explore the new destination, new culture, new friends and new learning environment in the year ahead.
↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Hoa

Reigan Paulovich

Reigan Paulovich is a second year Economics and Business Management undergrad at Rollins College in sunny Florida. She is currently studying abroad in Ireland as a visiting undergraduate student and she plans on making her home here after receiving her Masters degree. Being a native Floridian she is a beach and theme park lover, but she also appreciates the Fall and Winter seasons that she gets to observe in Ireland. Reigan is passionate about traveling and plans to visit 30 countries by the time she is 30. Equally, she is a nature enthusiast, and a people-person. She enjoys experiencing new and challenging things and is always ready to share her stories.
↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Reigan

Clara Villa

My name Is Clara Villa. I am from the tropical and happy country of Colombia. My background is in digital marketing. I came to Ireland in 2015, initially to study English but then, I fell in love with this country and its friendly people who are pretty much similar to the people of Columbia. This really helps to make me feel at home. I am a student at Maynooth University studying one of the most interesting courses I could find. I’m doing an MSc in Design Innovation. Being a “non- national”was daunting at first but, once again, people have made me feel so at home.
↓ Click on book to view blog posts from Clara

International Student Summer School

Each summer, Maynooth University proposes international students exciting summer schools based both on campus and throughout Ireland. Regular contributors describe their experiences being in Ireland and all the events surrounding their memorable summer with us.

↓ Click on the icon below to view blog posts from some of our International Summer School students