I chose to pursue a Commerce degree at UCD because of Quinn’s excellent reputation and global recognition. I have enjoyed spending time in such a collaborative, positive learning environment meeting so many remarkable personalities along the way. Over the last four years, the school has provided me with numerous outstanding opportunities. I am confident that these have equipped me with the knowledge and skills to pursue a successful career after graduation. Notably, I completed a twelve-month internship with Grant Thornton in 2023, holding a role on the quality team. During my placement, I worked in the company’s risk, compliance, and professional standards department. My time at Grant Thornton significantly enhanced my problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which will be invaluable in my future career.

Outside of my studies, I got involved with Quinn as a student ambassador and began rowing in my first year of university. Balancing academics with being a student-athlete in the UCD Ladies Boat Club has been my most rewarding experience. I was a committee member over the last three years, working as club secretary and treasurer, using skills such as teamwork and communication which I developed throughout my degree. A significant highlight of mine was racing from O’Connell Bridge along the River Liffey against Trinity College in the annual Colours Boatraces! I was proud to be part of the winning Intermediate 8+ at the 2025 National University Championships and to share this success with some of my closest friends that I have met since joining UCD.

The faculty members of the School of Business have been nothing but supportive of my sporting endeavours, encouraging me throughout my exams, busy training periods and international racing with my team. I wholeheartedly recommend Quinn to those of you considering a career in business and wish you all the best.

Choosing to study Business and Law at UCD Quinn was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The dual nature of the programme challenged me to think critically across disciplines while equipping me with the commercial and legal tools to explore industries like consulting, finance, and law.

What stood out most was the real-world focus embedded into the programme — whether through internships, competitions, or student-led projects. The support from faculty, staff, and my peers created an environment where ambition was met with opportunity. From my internship at KPMG to completing a legal internship at the Maples Group, I always felt empowered to take on new challenges. Winning the KPMG Denis O’Connor Scholarship and joining the UCD Student Managed Fund as a financial sector analyst were both milestones that shaped my growth professionally and personally.

Outside the classroom, I’ve served as a UCD student ambassador, co-founded a startup, and facilitated leadership sessions for first-year students through LIFT Ireland. These experiences taught me how to lead, listen, and build relationships that last beyond college.

To anyone considering UCD Quinn: this is a place where you don’t just study — you evolve. You’re encouraged to think bigger, connect globally, and carve out your path.

As a Commerce International student in the Quinn School of Business, I’ve been incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received throughout my Olympic journey. As I prepared for and ultimately competed in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Quinn School showed incredible understanding and support, particularly when it came to academic flexibility. They were extremely accommodating around my exam schedule, allowing me to maintain my academic progress without compromising the intense training and travel demands required at the highest level of sport. Competing at the Games was the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice, and it simply wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of the Quinn School of Business. The rigorous training required to compete at an elite level demands not only countless hours on the water but also substantial physical and mental preparation off it. Balancing these intense athletic commitments with academic responsibilities is a challenge, but the Quinn School of Business has been instrumental in making it possible. The School’s mentorship programme, which provides each student with a dedicated academic mentor, has offered crucial support throughout my journey. This guidance, along with the School's overall flexibility and understanding of the unique demands of student-athletes, has enabled me to manage my sporting and academic pursuits simultaneously

Currently, I’m on my Erasmus year in Valencia, a city I chose not only for its academic offerings but also because it’s the venue for the first qualification event for the LA 2028 Olympic Games. The Quinn School was fully supportive of this decision, recognising how important it was for both my studies and my sport. Their willingness to work with my schedule and provide exam flexibility has allowed me to continue progressing in my degree while staying fully engaged with the next Olympic cycle, LA 2028.

What really stands out is how the Quinn School understands the challenges that come with being a student-athlete. Their academic support and flexibility have made it possible for me to pursue both my education and high performance sailing without compromise. I’m proud to be part of a programme that not only values academic excellence, but also encourages students to chase big goals beyond the lecture room.

My internship experience has definitely been the highlight of my time at UCD so far. I was lucky enough to be selected to receive the Business in Society Scholarship, which allowed me to complete my internship year in the not-for-profit sector.

I interned with Special Olympics Ireland, in a marketing and fundraising role and had an amazing experience. I gained many useful skills that will benefit me in my final year of study and also in my future career.

I would highly recommend all students take part in the internship year as it is a great way to gain experience and to put into practice what you have learned in the classroom.

Economics and Finance really sparked my interest in school as I wanted a course with practical applications and plenty of options. I’ve always enjoyed maths and practical problem solving, so this course was a great opportunity to combine these skills. 

The Quinn building is a huge asset to business students with plenty of functional space for meeting and studying. In first year we learn how to
critically analyse real companies and investment opportunities, with an emphasis placed on ethical business and ESG considerations from the start. All the staff at Quinn are excellent in their field and are incredibly approachable and willing to help.

My highlight has to be the internship programme, which I completed in the Central Bank of Ireland. Learning on the job from some excellent colleagues was an invaluable experience. Upon graduation, I secured a role on the graduate internship programme with the Financial Stability Board in Basel, Switzerland.

I was undecided on the direction to take my career but knew I had a passion for working with people. Thanks to the Quinn Business mentoring programme, I was paired with Eva Kelly, Lidl, who gave first-hand insights into a typical day-to-day role of a regional HR manager.

I had the opportunity to develop my CV, practice interview skills, prepare for my internship applications, develop a LinkedIn profile, and much more.

I chose International Commerce as it allowed me to study Business and a Language. The year abroad really drew me to the programme as it allows students to immerse themselves in a different culture and improve their language skills. I started the programme with Spanish and Chinese and chose Chinese as it was a new challenge that would allow me to spend a year studying in China. I chose UCD and Quinn because of the quality of the classes and community within it. You get the opportunity to learn about all sides of business within your first 2 years and then specialise in what you are interested in final year. 

The first person I met was my peer mentor and they really helped me adjust to college life and get me settled in. I was able to meet lots of new people from every part of the world in my first few weeks, which really helped me adjust to college life.

Throughout my 4 years in Quinn, all of the lecturers have been supportive and insightful and have helped me gain knowledge in each module I’ve taken. There is a good mix of large lectures and smaller classes, allowing you to interact with the material and learn from other students. The Quinn staff have always been really helpful with whatever challenges come up throughout the semester.

In third year I moved to Beijing where I studied at Renmin University. This was one of the best experiences of my life. I got to learn in a new environment while being given the opportunity to travel around China, meet new people and have lots of fun. I believe everyone should go on a year abroad to get out of their comfort zone and immerse themselves in a different culture.

Outside of academics, I’ve been involved in UCD Hockey Club. This has been a great experience as you get to meet people from different courses and make some great friends. You also get to represent UCD in different competitions, such as Intervarisites, which is always fun. There are lots of societies you can get involved in within Quinn and around the college.

What I’ve enjoyed most at Quinn has been studying with friends in the social areas. The facilities are great, and there is always a great atmosphere within the building to talk, have coffee and study with friends.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Quinn and have gained lots of knowledge that will help me as I move into the working world. I recommend International Commerce to everyone as you get a well-rounded college experience both in UCD and abroad.

I chose this programme as the dual degree provides so many opportunities. UCD stood out to me because its B&L course is more customisable than at other universities, offering the flexibility to explore different areas within both fields, and choose modules that genuinely interest me. There is a huge selection of modules to pick from, meaning there’s something for everyone.

After visiting UCD on an open day, I instantly loved the vibrant campus atmosphere, which offers plenty of places to grab food or coffee and catch up with friends. I completed summer internships at Azets and PwC in audit and consulting, where employers consistently highlighted the practical value of a B&L degree, emphasising how much it helps graduates stand out in the job market.

Outside the classroom, I took part in the business mentoring programme, which was invaluable for improving my CV and interview skills. I also got involved in activities like mentoring foreign exchange students, speaking at open days, attending skills workshops, and facilitating LIFT sessions, all of which helped me develop new skills and meet so many lovely people.

Overall, my experience at UCD has been amazing and I would highly recommend both the university and the Business and Law programme. The supportive environment, great people, and diverse range of activities in UCD have truly made my college experience memorable.

Commerce International has significantly enhanced my understanding of the nuanced global world. This course has allowed me to blend insights from both the business realm, with the opportunity of completing internships with KPMG and a year-long exchange in Hong Kong. My study abroad experience stands out as one of the most enriching periods of my university journey. It has instilled in me profound cross-cultural perspectives and experiences that will undoubtedly propel me forward in my future career.

I chose to study Commerce at UCD because I wanted a programme that would challenge me academically while also giving me real-world experience. The Quinn School stood out for its emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and student development, and it lived up to that reputation from the beginning.

In my second year, I spent a semester on Erasmus in Pamplona, Spain. Immersing myself in a new culture and academic environment was a standout experience. It broadened my outlook, challenged me to adapt quickly, and gave me a deeper appreciation for international perspectives in business.

One of the biggest highlights of my time here was being selected as the UCD Quinn Enterprise Scholarship recipient for my internship year. This opportunity allowed me to intern with two exciting start-ups within NovaUCD. I got to work closely with founders and teams across product development, marketing, and strategy, an experience that gave me invaluable insight into the fast-moving world of entrepreneurship.

Outside the classroom, I was actively involved with the Commerce and Economics Society, where I had the chance to help organise events, run the social media and connect with an amazing group of peers in Ireland’s largest student-run society. The support and encouragement I received from Quinn played a huge role in building my confidence, which led to a personal highlight in representing Ireland at a global entrepreneurship final in Tokyo.

The balance of theory and practical learning, combined with the endless opportunities to get involved, has made my time at UCD truly rewarding. I’m leaving Quinn with not just a degree, but a broader outlook, strong connections, and the confidence to take on whatever comes next.

There are many reasons why I decided to choose commerce, but one reason was the variety of modules offered. The opportunity to foster creativity and innovation exists in many of these modules. 

A highlight of this course is taking part in the paid Internship Programme. I spent 12 months working in Grant Thornton in the Audit and Assurance department, and it was an incredibly fun and eye-opening experience.

Through my time at UCD, I also became a Community Mentor, and volunteered with ENACTUS which were great experiences. I participated in a mock Conference of Parties (COP) through the Climate Change and Business Sustainability module, which was a fantastic negotiation and learning experience. I also received a Choral Scholarship, and became a member of the globally regarded Choral Scholars of UCD.

This experience truly shaped my experience at university.

Economics and Finance appealed to me as I really enjoyed maths and problem-solving in school. The highlight of my degree was the third-year internship programme facilitated by the Quinn School of Business. I was fortunate to spend 10 months at Clearwater Corporate Finance, where I gained significant exposure to mergers and acquisitions and had the opportunity to learn from an outstanding team.

UCD offers a range of student societies that complement the content taught in Economics and Finance. I joined the Student Managed Fund, where students manage a real portfolio, and the Irish Student Entrepreneurship Forum (ISEF), a UCD student-led initiative that connects student entrepreneurs with investors and mentors. Overall, I enjoyed the busy campus life at UCD and am grateful for the great friends I made.

The skills and experience I developed throughout my degree enabled me to pursue further opportunities in London, such as a spring week at Goldman Sachs and a summer internship in Investment Banking at Bank of America, which led to a full-time job offer. Aside from investment banking, the course prepares students for various careers, such as sales and trading, private equity, and data analytics, as well as further study at top-ranked universities.

Commerce has made me realise how far creativity and determination can take you, as I constantly found myself evolving and growing with every year that I have completed. What I appreciate most about the course is the abundance of opportunities it provides you with to not only aid in your academic and professional development but gain valuable life experience as well.

I studied abroad for 5 months in Northern France where I gained a global perspective, knowledge and network that is essential for a business student. I took this experience into a year-long marketing internship where I gained real world exposure in a professional working environment. This reassured me that Commerce is a multifaceted degree that extends far beyond accountancy and finance, as it allowed me to pursue my passion for writing and content creation within a professional setting. These experiences enabled me to return to UCD in my final year with renewed confidence, leading me to take on a role with the business school's marketing team where I collaborated with friends to aid in running their social media. This work has been a real highlight of my time in Commerce, especially the opportunity to host my own Instagram live show! Through this, I have been able to share my own and so many other students’ stories of how the course has helped shape them.

If you’re looking for a business degree that looks different everyday, encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and gives you the opportunities to do so, I would highly recommend Commerce in UCD.

I chose Business and Law as I knew it would open all kinds of doors for me. I felt that studying this dual degree would equip me with the best tools possible to tackle the world of business. Outside of my course, I turned to the wide range of societies and clubs to make new friends and I became an avid member of the UCD Musical Society. 

Performing on stage as well as working on the committee has been one of my favourite parts of UCD. In third year I had the opportunity to study abroad. I spent five months living and studying in Sydney, Australia. This must be one of the highlights of my life, let alone my
college experience.

Why did you choose to study business?

When I started taking classes in business in high school, I found business to be interesting and applicable to my life. I enjoyed learning about topics such as accounting and now I am pursuing a degree in commerce. I am looking forward to applying my knowledge and skills in the corporate world in the future. I believe that this field offers endless opportunities for growth and success.    

What made you choose UCD and UCD Quinn?

UCD is renowned for its excellent academic programs and faculty, which will provide me with a high-quality education and valuable skills for my future career. I am eager to immerse myself in the multifaceted and dynamic environment that UCD has and make the most of all the opportunities available to me.              

I was awarded a  50% Global Excellence Scholarship by UCD and I cannot express how thankful I am for this opportunity. The student life at UCD is very active, and it includes a wide variety of clubs, societies, and sports teams that appeal to students with a variety of interests and origins. This is another reason why I chose UCD.

What has been the most interesting part of your experience in UCD so far?

The most intriguing aspect of my time at UCD thus far has been how we engaged in class. The professors encourage us to participate actively in the discussions and share our opinions, which makes the classes more engaging and interactive. The interactive approach to learning has allowed me to engage with my peers and professors, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances my academic growth. Additionally, the diverse perspectives brought by students from different backgrounds have broadened my understanding of various subjects beyond the textbooks.

What has been the most challenging part of your experience in UCD so far?

Students from other countries, like me, often experience culture shock when transitioning and may require additional time to become comfortable with our new home country and culture. This can be especially challenging when it comes to language barriers and social norms that differ from what we are used to. However, with patience, an open mind, and a willingness to learn, we can overcome these challenges and thrive in our new environment.

What has been your experience of the UCD Quinn School of Business?

As a first-year student at the UCD Quinn School of Business, everything was new to me. However, I am excited to learn and explore all the opportunities that the school has to offer. I am looking forward to gaining knowledge and skills that will help me achieve my career goals. I really appreciate how the instructors included all of us in their planned activities, such as orientation events. I am also impressed by the diverse student body and the supportive community at UCD Quinn School of Business. I believe that being part of this community will not only help me grow academically but also personally and professionally.   

What is your favourite thing about Quinn?

One thing I love about Quinn the most is the opportunities offered to students. I had the chance to attend industry insight days that the school's partner companies were hosting. These insight days helped me gain valuable knowledge about the industry and allowed me to network with professionals, which ultimately may support securing a graduate job after university.

The school has strong connections with companies in the business world, which helps students learn practical skills and get a better understanding of the business world. Additionally, Quinn's career services team is very supportive and provides guidance on resume building, interview skills, and job search strategies. They also organise various career fairs and networking events throughout the year to connect students with potential employers.      

What is your favourite module?

My favourite module so far is Financial Accounting as it is a highly sought-after profession with numerous job opportunities in a variety of industries. Additionally, the skills and knowledge gained from studying accounting can also be applied to personal finance management, making it a practical and useful subject for everyday life. By studying accounting, I can set myself up for a successful career in areas like finance, auditing, taxation, and management accounting.

Did you join any clubs or societies?

I joined the Malaysian Society at UCD, as joining this society allows me to connect with other Malaysian students and maintain a sense of cultural connection while studying abroad. In addition, being part of this society provides opportunities to participate in cultural events and activities that help me learn more about my own culture while providing a sense of community and support, especially since we are far from home and may feel homesick.

I also joined the Dance Society at UCD as I have been dancing since the age of ten. Through the Dance Society, I can continue pursuing my passion for dancing and improve my skills. Moreover, it is a great way to meet new people who share the same interest and form friendships beyond the Malaysian community.

What advice would you give to prospective students who are thinking of taking the opportunity to study abroad?

My advice would be to do some research on the colleges and programmes that appeal to you so that you can select the one that is most suitable for achieving both your academic and personal objectives. You might also consider contacting a current student or recent graduate to hear their feedback. This can provide you with insightful information.

The experience of studying in another country can be transformative, but it is not without its difficulties. Have an open mindset, be flexible, and welcome new things, including other cultures and experiences. Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to further your education in another country.   

What has been the best thing about Ireland so far?

 Outside of UCD, I discovered Ireland's natural beauty to be truly breathtaking. There is always something fresh and breathtaking to find, especially at the Cliffs of Moher. I also enjoyed exploring the charming towns and villages, such as Galway and Dingle, where I experienced the warm hospitality of the locals and tasted delicious traditional Irish cuisine. Overall, my time in Ireland was an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. I enjoyed the nightlife in Dublin as well as the fact that the city has a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of pubs, restaurants, and live music venues to explore.