"Instead of going straight to UCD, I decided to do the International Foundation Year so that my subjects would match the standards of UCD, so I wouldn't struggle so much with the subjects. My favourite thing is that I didn't have to pick anything right at the beginning, I could change my mind. For example, I started with general science, so I got to try a little bit of every science and see what sort of subject I was more interested in, so I could decide what actual career I want to do."
Graciela, Brazil Studied International Foundation Year in Engineering and Sciences Graduated with BSc (Hons) Environmental Biology
"Now that I have graduated I plan to start working immediately. I would like to stay in Ireland and I have made great contacts here through my years of studying. My skills I have gained from UCD have made me who I am today and will set me in good stead for what I hope is a positive and successful future."
Robin, Zimbabwe Studied International Foundation Year in Engineering and Sciences Graduated with BSc (Hons) Sports & Exercise Management
”It was only this year that I realised how much the International Study Centre actually helped me. When it comes to writing essays or just the little things that you didn't really think held much significance while you were doing them, you realise they were so important. Whatever you decide to pursue for your career, you have to enjoy it and you have to love it. Otherwise, you won't really be propelled to learn.”
Fatoumata, Gambia Studied International Foundation Year in Engineering and Sciences Progressed to BSc (Hons) Pharmacology
"UCD International Study Centre provides a perfect launchpad to get you started and to help immerse you into university life. You will be equipped with every possible skill, knowledge and friendship to begin your university studies when you graduate from the centre. I would recommend it to anyone who is serious about their studies, in need of, or simply want to have, a little bit longer runway before taking off their university life.
"I launched my own technology business and began working full time for it after graduating from UCD in 2015."
Hongbo, China Studied International Foundation Year in Engineering and Sciences Progressed to BSc Computer Science Founder of Bonflite - an airport shopping mobile app.
”When I left my country, I was excited to go to another place. On the plane, I was so excited. Next year, I'm going to a placement which is part of the course. I'm going to a placement in California. I think the placement for this course is important. You have to have an idea about what you want to do and what you don't want to do. When you graduate, you’ll have a background year of your work placement.”
Tianxu, China Studied International Foundation Year in Engineering and Sciences Progressed to BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition
"One of the reasons I came here was because they have lots of companies involved in pharmacology. It's inspiring to see how everything goes on and I was planning on having an internship in a company in my third year. That will be a good experience for me."
Anita, Nigeria Studying International Foundation Year in Engineering and Sciences
Dublin is ranked in the top 40 QS Best Student Cities in the World 2018.