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“I think it’ll be life-changing!” Incoming student Leticia looks forward to studying International Studies at UL

Leticia studied a BA in Political Science in Buenos Aires and graduated in 2019 with orientation in International Relations, which she says is what made her want to do her MA in this area. Here, she speaks about the reasons behind her course choice, university in Buenos Aires, and her expectations of life in Limerick.

By Lauren Valentine

  • Name: Leticia

  • Home country: Argentina

  • University: University of Limerick

  • Course: MA International Studies

  • Fun fact: Leticia already has a list of places to visit including the Cliffs of Moher, cities like Dublin and Cork, and the surroundings of Limerick!

Home comforts and embracing culture…

“I’m 24 years old and from Patagonia, in the south of Argentina. As you can see in one of the pictures, I have a 'mate' with me, which is a traditional hot beverage from Argentina (also in Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil with some nuances). I would say I drink it every day along with coffee and sometimes tea, and we usually take it on trips or to beaches and parks. The funny thing is that I took it to Germany as well and when I stayed there, but as I like to blend in into their culture I ended up drinking coffee with milk all the time.

This will be the first time I’ve studied abroad, other than the time I spent in Germany with a family, which I suppose was a bit of a trial! I’ve also been to Europe as a tourist before. I’ll miss my friends and family, but we can always stay connected through social media. I’m sure my 'mate' will go with me too, but I’m also sure that I'll pick up new habits wherever I go. know I’ll be OK – I’ve heard that the people in Ireland are really friendly! I just can’t wait to meet new people and engage with the culture.”



What it’s like to study Political Science…

“When I decided to study Political Science for my BA, I also thought of studying International Relations (IR). I chose Political Science as it was offered by the University of Buenos Aires, also bearing in mind that it would be broad enough in knowledge and skills. In addition, I chose elective modules about IR that really motivated me to pursuing further studies in the subject. One of the seminars, called Technology, Strategy and International Order, merged the theory of IR with high-end technologies in moments of conflict as well as in peace. Another module was Order and Conflict in the International System, which I enjoyed due to the 'real-life' assignments, such as writing a memo advising a President regarding an issue.”



Latin America to Limerick: comparing the experience…

“University in Argentina is free for home and international students (unless you choose a private one). As this isn’t the case abroad, I have applied for a Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship. It’s a great opportunity for international students to study in Ireland: it covers 1 year of tuition fees and also helps with living costs. I began looking for different master’s courses on the Education in Ireland website and UL caught my attention because the course is quite broad, but you can delve specifically into your interests with the elective modules on offer.

Compared to the university experience I’m used to in Argentina, I know Limerick will be really different. In particular the facilities: I’m eager to explore the facilities UL, especially the library which looks amazing! I’m also looking forward to having a university campus experience. Most students in Buenos Aires were local, or from other Latin American countries because of the common language. I imagine there’ll be more of an international ambience at UL – I think it’ll be life-changing!”

 Staying connected: the best way to prepare…

“Although I’m really excited about coming to Ireland, it’s quite difficult to prepare at the moment without knowing the rules around flights or quarantine, so it’s a bit of a waiting game. I’m always looking for news and updates, so I’m grateful to the university for their great communication. They send regular emails to international students about up-to-date news including entering Ireland and visas.

The CampusConnect app has also been super useful – I really like the idea behind it. I’ve connected with people from other courses, which has made me feel much less alone, especially in these uncertain times. All the questions that fellow learners have are really helpful too. Social media is also pretty accessible if you need help. I’ve connected with another Argentinian girl who’s got the scholarship and is studying now, which has been great.”

 

Looking back on the decision-making process, Leticia highlights that she chose her course because it aligns with her long-term goals: “Once I’ve finished my course, I’d like to work for an international organisation, perhaps in Ireland or another European country. This subject will give me great skills and tools for the labour market!”



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