Hello, I’m Ishwari Bansilal Modi, an Indian student currently pursuing Master’s in Process Validation and Regulatory Affairs (Pharmaceutical). It has been six months since I started my amazing voyage, which began on September 1st 2024. I have experienced a lot during the last few months, including travelling to new locations in Ireland (Thanks to the incredible Global Team), attending the most interesting and engaging lectures, and juggling a demanding schedule that includes studies, part-time and meal preparation. While adapting to a new country has its challenges, especially as a vegetarian, it has also been a journey of Self-discovery, Growth and Independence. In this blog, I will share my insights of being a student in Ireland.
Settling in: The first few weeks
I reached my accommodation at 11:30PM on a dark, rainy night-Welcomed with the typical Irish weather! The cold wind and constant drizzle made my arrival feel even more surreal. One thing I would advise anyone planning to come here is to arrive at least a week before your course starts. You will need time to settle in, buy essentials, and get familiar with your surroundings.
One advantage I had was arriving at night- this helped me adjust to the time zone immediately, as my sleep schedule was on point from day one. However, for those who arrive earlier in the day, jet lag can be a real struggle, making it tough to reset your sleep schedule.
Soon after settling in, I attended the orientation program, where I meet students from different courses, seniors, and our global team who was there to guide us. It was exciting opportunity to make friends and start building new connections.
One of the most crucial things to do within the first few weeks is to collect all important documents from college and immediately apply for PPSN, IRP, and a Bank Account. You must get your IRP within 90days of landing in Ireland, as it is one of the most important documents. Most of the workplaces will check your IRP before hiring you for a part-time job, so ensure you complete this process on time.
University Trips:
One of the most enriching aspects of my first semester was the incredible university organized trips, which allowed us to immerse ourselves in Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. We explored many places like Cliffs of Moher, Galway and even embarked on a thrilling mystery trip!
These trips were more than just sight seeing excursions-they were opportunities to build friendships, experience new cultures, and escape from the academic routine. Engaging with students from different courses and international backgrounds helped expand my network, making my social and professional circles more diverse.
As I always tell myself: “I won’t be 21 and living my dream life in Ireland again, so I will make the most of it!” These trips are not just about exploring new places but about embracing the adventure, stepping out of my comfort zone, and truly living my 20s to the fullest.
Is it hard being a vegetarian in Ireland?
According to a lot of folks I’ve spoken to, if you don’t consume non-vegetarian food, you will ultimately start eating meat or eggs after coming here.
However, I would say that it hasn’t been that hard! I have survived the cold Irish weather just fine with only vegetarian meals. A warm bowl of dal-chawal or a plate of steaming pasta does the job just right!
As a new student, figuring out where to buy groceries can be overwhelming with so many stores available. Here are my go-to options:
Tesco: A great place to find essentials like lentils, rice, oil, butter, paneer, bread, salt, sugar, biscuits, fresh vegetables and fruits, etc.
Dunnes: Ideal for cheese, pizzas, baguettes, chocolate puddings.
Indian stores: The best place for flattened rice, semolina, clarified butter, and all essential Indian seasonings (Masalas).
Aldi & Lidl: These supermarkets offer variety of grocery items at more budget friendly prices without compromising on quality.
PS: Check ingredients on each and every product for allergen purposes.
One thing you must learn before moving abroad is basic cooking skills-trust me you will become a master chef in no time. Watching YouTube shorts is the ideal method to come up with meal ideas because its quick, simple and gives you tons of ideas.
Also, there are a number of Indian Restaurants if you ever crave familiar flavors, and of course, McDonald’s is always an option! (None of this is sponsored, just my personal recommendations).
Reflecting on these past six months, I can confidently say that moving to Ireland has been a life-changing experience. From settling into a new country, attending university, making friends, exploring breathtaking locations, and managing food as a vegetarian-I have grown immensely in both confidence and adaptability. The journey has had its challenges, but every hurdle has made me stronger.
For any student planning to come to Ireland, I would say: embrace the change, step out of the comfort zone, and make the most of this incredible opportunity. Whether its navigating through grocery stores, managing time for lectures and meal preparation, meeting people from different cultures, or travelling across the country, every moment contributes to your personal and academic growth.
As I continue this journey, I look forward to more learning, travelling, and making memories that will last a lifetime. Here’s to stepping into future with open arms and making the most of each day-because “this journey is only the beginning and the best is yet to come!”