After accepting the offer from Trinity College Dublin (TCD), there were several administrative tasks to be completed before I could officially commence my medical studies in September ’18.
These tasks included (in no particular order):
- Paying a deposit to confirm my offer, and subsequently paying the full tuition fees
- Register/matriculate as a student and set up an account on the school’s online portal
- Apply for insurance to cover for any mishaps that may occur overseas
- Apply for student visa to Ireland
- Secure accommodation in Dublin (more about this in another post)
- Complete a health check-up to make sure that I am fit for medical school
Most of these tasks may seem foreign to someone who is embarking on an overseas education for the very first time, but thankfully, there is a robust support system for Singaporeans studying in Ireland. It is none other than the Singapore Medical Society of Ireland (SMSI).
I was contacted by the TCD representative from SMSI, who coincidentally was my batchmate back in junior college. SMSI has a College Representative for each of the five universities in Ireland. One of their responsibilities is to assist incoming students with their transition to studying and living abroad in Ireland. I was added to a Whatsapp group with other Singaporeans who were going to be my classmates at TCD. It was definitely very helpful to have a senior who could answer our questions and give us proper advice.
The first major event for all incoming students was freshman orientation. It was a two-day event held in July ’18. Within each orientation group, there was a mix of freshmen from the various Irish universities, orientation group leaders who were seniors, and not forgetting the classic ‘fake freshies’ who were actually seniors pretending to be freshmen. Day One was an Amazing Race held at Gardens by the Bay, while Day Two was beach games held at Sentosa. Overall, freshman orientation was very enjoyable because the activities were fun and I made new friends studying in the other universities. In particular, Day Two was most memorable as it was when I first met my fiancée! 😁
Another major event was the Pre-Departure Dinner held at a hotel ballroom in August ’18. It was an evening where members of SMSI had the opportunity to mingle with one another, indulge themselves in savoury hotel food, and enjoy performances put up by other members. It signified the end of our summer vacation and marked the beginning of another year of conquering medical school.
Although it is named Singapore Medical Society of Ireland, SMSI also includes those pursing dentistry and allied health courses in Ireland. I am very fortunate to have met seniors who were always willing to answer my queries pertaining to personal and school-related matters. It is definitely very helpful to hear from people who have walked the same path as you and to be able to learn from their experiences.
At that point in time, I was very much looking forward to starting a new chapter in my life. It was the first time that I would be away from my family and friends in Singapore for more than six weeks. I could not wait to immerse myself in a new environment with fresh faces and to experience the local culture there!
Kaiser 