Study Abroad in Limerick: Student Life

Student life in Limerick is centered on the campus, which offers students a choice of restaurants, pubs, a modern dance company, National Chamber Orchestra and a national art collection. The compact nature of the campus fosters a close sense of community among the students and faculty.

Orientation

The Study Abroad Program office organizes a 2-day orientation program on campus at the start of each semester. This is intended to ease the transition for international students to Ireland and to life and study at the University. Students are introduced to the University's layout, courses, administration procedures, counseling services, library, student services and sports and recreation facilities. In addition, the AIFS Resident Director organizes orientation exclusively for AIFS students the day before the general orientation. It includes a walking tour of Limerick and a review of all services and facilities available to AIFS students.

Cultural activities

To introduce students to the life and culture of Ireland, the AIFS Resident Director organizes social and cultural activities throughout the semester.

Computer access and e-mail

The Information Technology Department provides computing, communications, printing and audio-visual services. Students have access to computers installed with a wide range of applications that have Internet access. Study abroad students receive free e-mail accounts. Broadband connection is available at the student accommodation for no extra charge, although Macintosh computers are not compatible.

Transportation

Students can walk from their housing to all campus facilities. A public bus from the University takes 15 minutes to Limerick City until 11 p.m. Public transportation is inexpensive, as are taxis from the center of town to the University.

University Sports Arena

The University has one of the largest indoor sports arenas in Ireland. The arena includes a 50-meter swimming pool; indoor track; 60-meter sprint track; 4 full-size courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton and indoor soccer; 45 cardio-vascular machines including treadmills, cycles and cross-trainers; and 35 resistance training machines and free weight stations. The arena is on campus, a few minutes' walk from the main academic buildings.