My Journey at Maynooth University: Balancing studies, Internships, and an Intercultural event
A short introduction about me, Arqus Alliance at Maynooth University
I’m currently a Digital Marketing intern at the International Office and an Erasmus student at Maynooth University. I’m also an Arqus scholar and the main applicant for the Students Co-Designed Project 2024, sponsored by the Arqus European Universities Alliance.
If you’re not familiar with Arqus just yet, it’s a European University Alliance that connects Maynooth with eight other universities all across Europe! Maynooth University became the ninth full member of the Alliance in 2023. The Arqus Talent Scholarship is a Scholarship Scheme designed to attract and retain talent at postgraduate level from around the world. In 2023, I was selected as one of nine successful recipients to pursue a 2-year master’s programme at the University of Wrocław, Poland. In September 2024, I came to Maynooth University for my Erasmus exchange and my Digital Marketing internship.
What are Arqus Student co-designed projects?
Arqus Student co-designed projects are innovative and collaborative initiatives that promote cultural exchange and the integration of international students across the Arqus member universities. For this project, I was the main applicant and was honored to receive funding of €1,500. The funding available can be used to cover different activities such as materials for the implementation of the project; coffee breaks and catering; venue booking; etc.
My experience as an event organiser and team leader
Alongside my studies and Digital Marketing internship at the International Office, I collaborated with other students on campus to organise a cultural event called Intercultural Dialogue Circle. The event was a chance for students, academics, and staff to promote and learn about different cultures in a relaxed and fun way. To do so, I collaborated with other students at MU who were interested in cultural diversity to create mini-games and challenges and set up stalls representing different countries.
Intercultural Dialogue Circle at the Electronic Engineering building, North Campus
Overall, 20 students from around eight countries and regions, including students from the Arqus Alliance and beyond, joined as collaborators. We then invited the students on campus to visit the booths and join this one-hour event on the 21st of November, with everyone going away with a small goodie bag as a gift when completing the challenges. The event also received positive feedback from students, staff members, and international guests from the Arqus Alliance who attended. In total, around 60 people took part, which was a great success. After the event, we also had lunch together and announced the winners for the best performances on the event day.
Photo with Arqus students on South Campus
Back in late August, when starting the project, I felt a bit anxious as it was my first experience as an event organiser. I decided to take some modules at Maynooth including event management and social media that could support me with the necessary knowledge and experience.
Fortunately, my professor, Ms. Niamh Carmel O’Sullivan, gave valuable guidance and advice when I was in the midst of chaos. I truly appreciated her insightful lectures and after class conversations which were incredibly applicable to my real-life situation.
On top of that, I wasn’t alone on this journey. My colleagues from the International Office and at the Arqus team also helped me secure the venue, promote the event, as well as send the invitation to international students on campus. As a student, I couldn’t have done this without their contributions to the event.
Time Management: A Key to Personal and Professional Growth at Maynooth University
Balancing my studies, internship, and project work was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Here are a few tips I found helpful:
1. Never skip classes:
I never skipped my classes as they were my main ‘mission’ during my time here. My classes usually last only an hour, but they are packed with valuable knowledge. I’ve learned a lot about research, teamwork, and critical thinking thanks to different modules at Maynooth. This semester, I took four modules, all of which have enhanced my communication and marketing skills, both academically and professionally.
2. Be present and stay focused:
With lots of assignment deadlines and tasks, staying focused was crucial. I always have a daily to-do list to prioritise my work and have weekly meetings with my Marketing manager (she is my mentor too!) to review my weekly progress. This helps me stay on track and identifies my next steps clearly week after week.
3. Communication is key in teamwork:
Working on several team projects at Maynooth taught me the importance of effective communication. Whether seeking support or feedback, ensuring that everyone is on the same page is very important for success.
To conclude, my studies and internship are coming to an end. I hope my story inspires you to embark on your own educational journeys, embracing both leadership opportunities and challenges.
I want to thank everyone I’ve worked with at Maynooth for showing me that the possibilities are endless for those who dare to take the leap.
Text written by Khang Du, originally published at Maynooth University website.