Snowballs, singing and societies: Kunal shows us that a UL Business degree isn’t all work and no play!

Kunal is currently studying MA Business Management at the University of Limerick. We spoke to him about studying abroad, new experiences and advice for incoming students. Next week Kunal will be back to share his ‘Top 10 Ways to Make the Most of University’. Stay tuned!

By Lauren Valentine

Fact File

Name: Kunal

From: Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

Current university: University of Limerick

Studying: Master’s in Business Management

Shout-out to incoming students: Remember, you need to toil to achieve your goals but most importantly, have fun and make friends and memories, that you can cherish later. Have a great time! Welcome to Ireland!

Let’s talk business…

How did you get to where you are now?

I did my undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Engineering and graduated in 2016. I then joined an IT firm named Wipro, where I worked in customer service. After a few months of working there, I joined an international education agency, where I worked for a year and a half in marketing. That brings me to now: I’m at the University of Limerick for my postgraduate in Business Management.

Why did you choose to move abroad to study?

I have always wanted to be in an English-speaking country in Europe while I pursue my Masters, and the first country that struck my mind was Ireland. Besides, moving abroad for higher education was on my wish list. I wanted this to happen because I needed to explore my potential, get an education from a different system to my home country and meet people from all over the world. I knew it would be a memorable and life-changing experience.

How are you finding the Master's compared to your undergraduate programme?

My Master's programme is interesting and demanding. As it is a 1-year programme, the pace is very fast and rigorous. I need to keep up with it, which ultimately is helping me to gain the skills and knowledge required in today’s corporate world.

What are your plans for after graduation?

To stay here in Ireland and make the most of the Graduate Employment Scheme (Stamp 1G) which is valid for 2 years. This means I can look for jobs and work here.

Have you been able to network professionally?

Before coming to Ireland, I talked to a few staff and students through Facebook, LinkedIn and the CampusConnect app and I’m still in touch with them. During my time here at UL, I have met numerous people during workshops, seminars, volunteering, society events and other academic events.

All work and no play?

What do you do in your spare time?

I’m a part of the music society because I’m a singer and a guitar player. Apart from music, I spend my time traveling, watching movies, sharing my thoughts and motivational quotes online. I’m also part of the international society.

Do you have a favourite quote or a piece of advice for prospective students?

A quote that I prepared myself and that I truly believe in: ‘We are born for a sole reason, let’s find the purpose of our existence to make life meaningful and worth living.’

After you arrive in Ireland, you will be starting a new life, a new journey which is going to teach you a plethora of lessons and give you many experiences. Try to live in the moment, grab every opportunity that comes your way and make the best out of your time here at University of Limerick.

What’s been one of your favourite experiences so far?

A few weeks ago, Ireland experienced heavy snow fall. It was the first time I’d ever witnessed snow and it really surprised me – it was like a fairy wonderland! Everything seemed like a movie as it was all either black or white. Of course, I made quite a few snowballs!