Singapore

• Anatomy Labs. Cadaver dissection allows for great hands-on (literally) learning of human anatomy.
• Special Study Module (SSM). This allows you to explore a specialist medical field at a student-friendly level.
• Sligo Medical Academy. Splitting allows for a better student-teacher ratio and less patient fatigue - a better learning environment. The hospital has great student facilities.

"I am from Singapore and I decided to pursue medicine in Galway, Ireland because of its strong reputation in clinical teaching and medical research. My first year in the medicine program has been an enriching experience. Besides lectures and lab work, I was able to sign up for an Interprofessional Learning elective, where I got to interact and exchange medically related opinions with peers of various healthcare disciplines, across all other Irish Universities (Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork and University College Dublin). Another highlight of the course is the Special Study Module where I was able to learn more about the culture and health of the travelling community in Tuam Co. Galway.

Besides, academia, University of Galway provides me with opportunities to join various societies and events, for example, I was a member of the orchestra society and during my residence, I was given the chance to go on a road trip to Connemara and rehearse against the backdrop of scenic mountains and lakes. There are also meaningful charity runs to take part in. For instance, the NUIgalway 8k run, allowed me to challenge myself physically and mentally, while at the same time, lend a helping hand to those in need.

Although it has only been my first nine months in Galway, I can already liken Galway as my second home. From the serene beaches at salt hill to the casual chic cafes along Shop Street, in three words, Galway is a friendly, quaint, and beautiful county indeed."

— Ho Min Yun, Student in a Bachelor in Medicine and Surgery and of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (MB BCh BAO), from Singapore (2015-2020)

"I chose Medicine in Galway because of the good reputation it has. Also the Special Student Module (SSM) offered was what attracted me to apply to NUIG. I applied for the Sign Language SSM course and it has definitely been one of the highlights of studying in NUIG thus far. Apart from learning a new skill, I got the opportunity to meet and learn from the Deaf association and it's something I would definitely like to continue. There are opportunities aplenty in all types of activities outside and within your course, so rest assured you won't be bored, it just depends on you to try it out!

Galway and Ireland in general are absolutely charming. The people are wonderfully warm and welcoming and though the weather in Galway may be iffy (that's just Galway for you we'd say!), it doesn't ruin how beautiful the town and its sights are. I also need to give a special mention to the amazing food and produce they have here in Galway. If you're worried about food, don't be, there's plenty of good cafes and restaurants here to chill with a friend. To sum Galway up in 3 words: Rainy but charming and homely."

— Natalie Teh, Medicine & SSM in Sign Language, from Singapore