What does it mean to truly belong? To feel at home in a place that once seemed unfamiliar? When I first arrived in Ireland, I carried this question with me like extra baggage. But TUS made sure I never had to unpack it alone. The transition wasn’t just about moving to a new country; it was about stepping into the unknown. I had doubts, lots of them. Would I find friends? Would I ever feel at ease in this new rhythm of life?
The pre-departure webinars organized by the university gave me clarity before the journey began, the airport pickup gave me relief helping me find my footing when everything felt new, and the lively fresher’s party for international students helped us to connect with peers, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in fun activities, making me feel welcomed like home.
I never felt like I was missing festivals from back home. Celebrating Onam right after arriving in Ireland felt like carrying a piece of home with me. Even in a new place, enjoying delicious food and heartfelt laughter with friends made it just as warm and memorable. Onam is more than a festival for a Malayali, it’s a feeling of belonging, no matter where we are. In the midst of settling in, we found solace in friendships, shared joy over a hearty feast, and reminded ourselves that home is something we create together.
This year, we also celebrated diwali with all the glitters and fun, dancing to our favourite songs until our legs gave out. It felt even more special because we shared it with people from different nationalities, all coming together under one roof. The sense of community made me feel connected to the university from the very beginning.
When it comes to celebrations, it’s also fun to try new ones you haven’t experienced before, like Halloween this year! It was such a cool experience. We threw together last-minute costumes, and the whole spooky vibe was something fun and exciting.
University life here is more than just celebrations and academics; it equips students with practical life skills, empowering us to navigate the world beyond the campus. I remember attending a workshop on mending clothes to promote sustainability. It showed me how simple it is to repair something rather than discard it, a lesson that deeply connects beyond just fabric. It gave me insights like how simple it is to fix your clothes, it’s like knowing to fix yourself.
Being part of the TUS Global Student Community has allowed me to connect with friends from around the world. Our training session at the Limerick campus was informative, enjoyable, and relaxing, filled with games and activities that helped us bond. It wasn’t just about learning but about creating memories and finding a supportive community that I could always rely on. A highlight for me was last year’s graduation ceremony. We set up a photo booth for the graduates, and seeing students from different countries celebrating their achievements with pride shining in their eyes lifted my spirits. As I stood there, watching them toss their caps into the air, I saw a glimpse of my own future.
And of course there are always moments of uncertainty, and in these moments I remind myself “You don’t need to figure it out right now; you just have to trust the process, eventually all dots will connect.” Now, I’m not just a student at TUS; I’m part of a community that fosters growth, learning, and belonging. If you’re looking for a place where personal and academic growth go hand in hand, TUS is where your journey begins. By the way, My name is Rosna Ajay and I am currently studying for the MSc in Pharmaceutical and Chemical Analysis at TUS Athlone Campus.