Likitha’s story of facing challenges and grabbing global opportunities

There are millions of people around the world and each one of them will have a unique story to tell. These stories will have awe-inspiring moments, some learnings, and tales of grit, resilience, and hard work. Meet LIKITHA, an international student from India, whose journey of self-discovery led her to Ireland to pursue her dreams!

Likitha was born and brought up in Bangalore and had a sheltered upbringing. She was raised by cautious and protective parents, who could not imagine staying away from her. Studying abroad was never an option for her. But Likitha was able to convince her parents and they were soon on board with her plans! Want to know Likitha’s story?

Here is the excerpt from our (Hotcourses India, an IDP company) interview with Likitha. We would like to add that we enjoyed listening to her. She has a unique narrating style that makes you pay attention to every word she speaks.

Likitha did her Engineering in Information Science from India and worked for 2 years before moving to Ireland. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Data Analytics from Dublin City University. She is also a student ambassador at DCU.

Likitha, what motivated you to pursue your studies abroad?

It was the pandemic time and my friends and I had given up our hopes of pursuing our masters. We believed that continuing our jobs was the best way forward. I gave up on my aspirations of becoming a Data Scientist and started doing certification courses to support my profession.

One of my clients (Arie Henrich) proved instrumental in my decision to study abroad. He showed a keen interest in helping me realize my full potential and prompted me to continue my studies. He encouraged me, boosting my confidence in my talents and introduced me to the different opportunities that I can explore in Ireland.

My nephew, who was an international student in Germany, also played a significant role in convincing my parents to let me study abroad. He had contacts in Ireland and he was able to assure my parents that I will be safe and fine in that country. I decided to proceed with Ireland based on his input and suggestions. My initial plan was to enrol on a data science course, but I eventually joined a Data Analytics course.

It did take some time to persuade my parents. But eventually, they had to give in. Ireland is known as one of the safest places to study. The only concern was my health considering the cold weather conditions in the country. But I promised my parents that I will take care of my health. Thanks to all of them, I am now living my dreams of studying abroad.

How did you go about planning your studies abroad?

Since it took some time to persuade my parents, I did not have much time left for applying to some of the universities in Ireland. I took my IELTS exam in March and got my results by the first week of April. I applied to 4 universities and received an unconditional offer letter from 2 of them including DCU. I was rejected by the other two as the application window had closed.

I got selected for the Data Analytics course at Dublin City University, one of the most reputed universities in Ireland. Even though it was not exactly what I was looking for, I got interested in the Data Analytics course after learning more about the curriculum. They were teaching trending topics like time series analysis and data mining. These got me interested in the course. I also had a scholarship opportunity at DCU. So, I accepted the offer from DCU.

The next step was the visa process. It went smoothly as I had the support of a counsellor too. Eventually, I came to Ireland in September.

I want to specifically mention the resources available for practising IELTS. Those were especially helpful. I was able to score a 7.5 with the help of those sample test materials.

How was the experience after landing in Ireland?

It felt like a miracle! I had not even travelled to a different state for studies and here I was, travelling to a totally different country! My flight to Ireland was the first flight that I had ever taken. It was the beginning of winter when I arrived in Ireland. I struggled with it then and it still feels challenging to handle the weather.

I had a cousin in Ireland who was kind enough to arrange accommodation for me. She also helped me get other documents in order, including the IRP and PPSN.

I share my room with Indian working professionals. They are very supportive, helping me every step of the way and trying their best to make me feel at home. They are former international students and I love hearing about their college experiences in Ireland. My flatmates are undoubtfully one of the best things that happened to me in Ireland.

Back at the university, navigating DCU as a new student was very easy. They have an organized system and they got me settled within minutes. The staff and professors are very friendly and approachable. Overall, it was a warm and welcoming environment in Ireland.  

Did you get to enjoy the Irish culture and explore the local community?

The residents are very sweet. I take walks around the locality where I stay, and people are always ready to greet me with a smile and engage in conversations. They ask me about my days in Ireland. You will be amazed by their polite and humble nature.  

How is your academic life? What does your typical college day look like?

Initially, we had classes for 4 days a week. It was from 4 PM to 7 PM. On Thursdays, we have classes from 9 AM to 12 PM and then from 4 to 7 PM. I had friends staying on campus. So, we spend time there, up until 4 in the evening. 80% of my classmates are Indians. Apart from our classes, we spend most of our time in the library, the cafeteria, and the U-Building.

The campus is huge! It has a very good library. They have a digital version too. I must say that DCU has a very good canteen as well. The U-Building is especially worth mentioning. There is always some event happening here or calming music playing. I enjoy relaxing there before beginning my classes for the day. DCU is very diverse, and people are very friendly. They do not hesitate to strike up a conversation with you.

What other support does the university offer international students?

There are healthcare specialists to support students. There is also an accommodation research department. They allot places for students and make sure that students eventually get accommodation on campus. They have tie-ups with accommodation providers outside the campus too. The campus has a gym, sauna, swimming pool and basketball court apart from several other amenities. These are available to students at a very nominal rate.

What were your expectations about Ireland? Were those expectations met?

The truth is – I did not expect myself to feel so comfortable living away from home. The weather is still a hurdle to get adjusted to. But I am happy taking care of myself.

Do you work part-time? Is it easy to manage part-time work?

Taking up a part-time job depends on your course and your class timings. I would suggest international students do not take up jobs for at least the first two semesters of a 2-year course. The course is intense and the assignments are challenging. You will need time to study and work on your assignments. So, managing a part-time job will become very difficult. Your studies are not just about learning what the professors teach in class. You must do your own research too and explore more about the topics. I worked for a month or so, but I found it very difficult to manage. I have decided that I will take up jobs only after my second semester.

Are you comfortable with the transport facilities in Ireland?

In Ireland, you can travel with a leap card. With a student leap card, one instance of travel will cost you 1 Euro. If you make another journey within the next 90 minutes, it will be free. I have felt that the transportation in Ireland is very safe. People also practice the queuing system to board the bus. For crossing the roads, you must press a button and wait till the light turns green for pedestrians. But I also feel that, rather than waiting for the bus, sometimes it is easy to just walk to your destination.

What did you miss the most about India? Did you struggle with homesickness?

Very much! I miss my parents. It was especially tough during the initial months. I also miss my mom’s food.

Did you get to explore Ireland?

I have not explored much, but I will, once I get my work visa. DCU arranged a city tour when we reached Ireland. I also visited the Wicklow Mountains and Howth which are good places for people who love being adventurous.

What are your plans and ambitions?

I intend to stay in Ireland for at least 5 years and gain some exposure. My intention of coming to Ireland was not just for studies. I wanted to experience how I can live on my own. After I finish my course and find a job, I want to practice more yoga and explore Ireland.

How has your perspective changed about yourself and the world around you?

I enjoy every bit of this opportunity and I feel that every youngster should get this chance. I am being myself; I am learning new things and more about how people are. I was a very sheltered child, and I thought it would be a challenge to stay away from my parents. I miss them terribly, but I am also happy knowing that I can indeed manage my life on my own. I feel more motivated to learn and explore new things. Every small step feels like a milestone. Imagine getting an exhilarating feeling doing grocery shopping for yourself!

What is your advice for international students?

Ireland is a safe place to explore, people are very friendly, and it is comparatively less expensive. So, if you get an opportunity to come to Ireland or any other country abroad and be on your own, do not miss it.

Do not be scared about leaving your family and friends. Try to stay calm and happy. You will eventually adapt and start loving it.

Before you join any course, read up about it and make sure you are fully interested in pursuing that course.

Try being independent and get to know more about life. It is a good feeling!

 We thank Likitha for generously sharing her experiences with us. It will undoubtfully motivate at least some of our readers who are stuck in the face of challenges. We wish Likitha and our young readers all the very best in their future endeavours!