Meet Our New International Student Ambassadors for Spring 2025!

Joining us are three exceptional students from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the role. Additionally, we are delighted to welcome back one of our ambassadors from last semester, who enjoyed the role so much that she is eager to continue her ambassador journey this spring. The International Office is excited to work closely with these brilliant and passionate students, as they play a vital part in enhancing the global student experience at Mary Immaculate College. Their enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment to fostering international connections will surely make this semester a memorable one for all.

Lili Hinner - Erasmus student from Sweden

I’m Lili Hinner, a design and visual communication student from Linnaeus University in Sweden. After exploring media and communication, I came to Ireland with a clear goal: to experience these subjects from a fresh, international perspective. Immersing myself in a new culture and engaging with different teaching methods, outside the familiar Swedish framework, offers an exciting opportunity for both academic and personal growth. As an international student ambassador, I aim to help fellow international students feel more connected, informed, and supported during their time here. By sharing my own experiences and insights—from academic challenges to navigating the quirks of Irish weather—I hope to inspire others to embrace the adventure of studying abroad, regardless of the challenges it may bring. I want them to see the real side of this experience and feel assured that they’re never alone in their journey.

Phengheng Khorn - Postgraduate student from Cambodia

My name is Phengheng Khorn, and I am from Cambodia. I am currently pursuing a Master of Education in Digital Leadership in Education at Mary Immaculate College (MIC). I chose to study in Ireland because of its renowned education system, the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the field, and my desire to immerse myself in a new cultural and academic environment. As an international student ambassador, I hope to contribute in ways that align with my strengths, such as creating meaningful content through writing and social media, sharing insights about my experience in Ireland, and inspiring others through my personal journey. While I am naturally introverted, I am eager to support fellow students by providing helpful resources, sharing reflections through blog posts, and offering guidance in ways that allow me to connect meaningfully. I look forward to growing personally and professionally through this opportunity and making a positive impact on the MIC international student community.

Yelyzaveta Shakhova - Erasmus student from Ukraine

Hello everyone, my name is Yelyzaveta Shakhova, I’m from Ukraine. In my home university, I major in Psychology and plan to take similar modules here at MIC. Other than that I will also enrich my knowledge of drama and theology. I came to Ireland to broaden my horizons regarding psychology and cultural diversity. Ukraine and Ireland share historical similarities, both being once oppressed by another country. That is why I've decided to learn more about this country and its culture firsthand. I am deeply inspired by the MIC Erasmus+ mission to create an open and inclusive environment for international students. As an international student ambassador, I am eager to support and represent the local community, create content to attract new students and promote MIC's values globally.  

Annemarie (Rie) Menche - Erasmus student from Germany

Hello again! I am Rie, 21 years old and from Germany.
Back in my home university I study to become a teacher for secondary school with the subjects English and German. Here at Mary I, I enjoy a wide variety of courses in and outside my original field of study.
Ireland has truly shown me a great deal of hospitality and kindness and I have made many memorable impressions and even more friends here. Its beauty reaches from the landscapes, culture, people to everyday life in Limerick. My Autumn Semester was a wonderful and unique experience - which is why I am ever so pleased to return to Mary Immaculate College for a second semester!
As an International Student Ambassador I hope to connect, work with and for all International students once more. Whether it may be capturing and sharing highlights on Social Media, writing blog posts on topics of your interests or organising regular meetings and events in the International Society to help make your stay abroad enjoyable and memorable.

We look forward to the exciting opportunities and experiences these ambassadors will bring to our international community at MIC. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from our ambassadors throughout the semester!