How a GOI-IES Letter helped me get into University of Galway

“Warmest congratulations on receiving the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies Excellence Scholarship for 2025/26.” I still remember reading that line, my heart racing. Yet, even in that moment of joy, one thought kept circling in my mind: what about the Government of Ireland – International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES)? That was the dream: a fully funded chance to study at University of Galway. Everyone around me warned, “It’s too competitive. Don’t get your hopes up.” Still, I quietly held on to mine and waited for the application outcome.

Weeks later, I refreshed my inbox while I was sitting with my friends at a café in Pakistan, and there I saw an email stating, “We are pleased to inform you that your application has been successful, and you have been offered a GOI-IES award”. I was nervous and excited! For a few seconds, my brain refused to process the words on my phone screen. And then, almost immediately, came the absolute panic — the kind that makes you think: ‘What have I just gotten myself into?’

It makes me smile to think back on it now. And how GOI-IES has enabled me to support my transformation from a mere dreamer into a doer.

My name is Ayesha Yusra. I am a proud first-generation student in my family to live and study abroad, originally from Pakistan. With a passion for studying International Development, I started my new life in Galway. Studying at the University of Galway is an incredible opportunity, and I am grateful for the multicultural and diverse community I have found here.

The programme, Master's in International Development Practice, offers rigorous courses that combine analytical depth with practical insight. Each class encourages me to think critically about our overlapping global crisis and to apply what we learn to real, development-centred challenges in areas like poverty, climate justice, and governance. The professors bring their academic excellence and industry experience to create a learning environment that connects debates on SDGs and just transitions with concrete, real-world applications. Being surrounded by some of the brightest minds from around the world motivates me to grow, adapt, and learn from perspectives different from my own.

Living in Galway is slowly becoming a place of rituals for me: walking by Silverstrand Beach after an intense reading on development theories, catching glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean at Salthill, running down the streets to watch my first Halloween parade. From the people you meet to the places you explore, there is something exciting for everyone!

The School of Geography, Archaeology and Irish Studies exceeded my most ambitious expectations. This program encourages us to be transformational, collaborative, and critical: qualities that I believe will remain with me long after graduation. GOI-IES has given me the courage to walk through my dreams, not just talk about them.

Equally valuable are the numerous networking events and opportunities at the campus— whether it’s engaging in discussions with experts, attending talks led by industry leaders, or working as a global ambassador for the university. These experiences are not only broadening my professional network but also giving me a deeper appreciation for collaboration and diversity.

As I continue my journey at Galway, I hope to say that every concept has turned into action and that every encounter has left a mark. Through GOI-IES, I am fortunate to be part of an intellectually stimulating environment that allows me to hone my technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and a development practitioner mindset to thrive in the development sector

For more information on the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) programme, visit hea.ie.

Words and images thanks to Ayesha, MA International Development Practice