Key Highlights
- Dual master’s student: Completed a Master’s in International Business Management and is now pursuing an MSc in Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality Management at Griffith College.
- Student leader: Serves as Student Union Vice President, organising networking events, cultural activities and sustainability initiatives.
- Work-study balance: Works as an Assistant Restaurant General Manager at Supermac’s while pursuing higher education.
- Community impact: Helped secure Griffith College’s participation in Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, boosting the institution’s visibility.
For Raj Mayur Shah, studying in Ireland has been about much more than earning a degree. His journey has been one of leadership, cultural immersion and hands-on learning, both inside and outside the classroom.
After graduating from Griffith College, Ireland, with a Master’s in International Business Management, he is now pursuing an MSc in Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality Management from the same institution. The programme equips him with business strategies, sustainable policy planning and advanced leadership skills.
“My parents always encouraged me to explore opportunities abroad. Today, after more than two and a half years in Ireland, I have built a rewarding career alongside my studies,” says Raj in a chat with Global Indian.
The MSc in Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality Management at Griffith College is a one-year postgraduate programme designed to prepare graduates for responsible management careers in the evolving global tourism industry.
Life in Ireland
Having previously studied in Canada, Raj did not experience a major cultural shock when he arrived in Ireland. What stood out instead was the warmth and friendliness of the people.
“I found people very welcoming. The country is beautiful, the roads are clean, traffic rules are followed and the scenery during my daily commute is amazing.”
His campus in Limerick brought together students from around the world, including China, Brazil, Mexico, Chile and India.
“Being surrounded by people from different cultures made the experience richer. It never felt like I was stuck in the same routine. Every day offered something new.”
Why Griffith College stood out
Born in Mumbai, Raj completed his schooling at St Thomas Academy and his Bachelor’s from Atharva College of Hotel Management and Catering Technology. His decision to choose Griffith College for further studies came after extensive research. After leaving a previous master’s programme in Canada due to disruptions caused by faculty strikes, he was determined to continue his education.
“I looked at several colleges and attended many education fairs before taking the decision. Griffith stood out because of its diversity, experienced faculty and practical approach to learning.”
The admission process was straightforward, although preparing documentation and obtaining a visa proved time-consuming. “One of the happiest moments of my life was when I received the visa.”
Challenges along the way
While Ireland offered many opportunities, the journey was not without obstacles. “The weather was probably the biggest challenge. It can change within minutes. You might wake up to heavy rain and then have bright sunshine an hour later.”
Finding accommodation was another major hurdle. “Finding a place close to college and with suitable roommates can be difficult,” says Raj, who began searching for accommodation as soon as he arrived, which helped.
Raj also recalls experiencing occasional incidents of racism while working in retail. “There were times when people made assumptions based on where I came from. Those moments were difficult, but they taught me resilience.”
A typical day as an international student
Life as a student required discipline and careful budgeting. His day usually starts around 6 or 7 a.m., and classes begin at 9. “I would make a simple breakfast—tea, omelettes or bread—and then head to college.”
Classes typically ran from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a lunch break in between. Students often brought their own meals and spent time in canteens, common rooms or student spaces socialising, watching movies or listening to music.
“The examinations were difficult initially, but with determination and support, I managed to complete my degree and continue my studies.”
Learning beyond the classroom
One of the highlights of Raj’s experience was the practical nature of his studies. The college regularly organises career fairs where students meet representatives from major employers across retail, hospitality and other industries.
He also worked on real business projects, including developing marketing strategies and business plans.
“One project involved creating a complete marketing strategy for a restaurant with a budget of €100,000 and finding ways to increase sales and build the brand,” Raj explains, adding that such experiences give valuable insights into how businesses operate in the real world.
Vibrant campus life and community engagement
Campus life is vibrant and diverse. “Potluck lunches, cultural festivals, bowling outings, cricket matches and student gatherings keep the calendar busy.”
One of Raj’s proudest achievements was helping secure Griffith College’s participation in Ireland’s iconic St. Patrick’s Day Parade. He spent nearly two and a half years working with the city council to get his college included.
“When it finally happened, it was a proud moment because it gave Griffith College greater visibility and recognition in the community.”
Active role as Student Union Vice President
As the Student Union Vice President at Griffith College, Raj plays an active role in campus life. The position is both new and challenging, allowing him to organise events that help students connect, learn and feel part of a community.
“We organised networking events where students could interact with seniors and understand the realities of the job market,” says Raj, who also arranged cultural field trips and sustainability-focused visits to places like Cloughjordan Eco-Village, where students observed sustainable living practices in action.
Life outside college
Alongside his studies, Raj works as an Assistant Restaurant General Manager at Supermac’s in Limerick. Balancing work, studies and personal life can be difficult, especially in the restaurant industry.
“Weekends are usually my busiest days, so my time off often comes during the week. That’s when I do my grocery shopping, laundry, housework and other errands.”
When he gets free time, he enjoys driving around Ireland, meeting friends and exploring local restaurants and pubs.
Looking ahead
Raj prefers not to focus too much on distant goals. “For me, success is not defined by titles or milestones alone. It is about continuous growth, staying grounded and creating opportunities for myself and those around me — one step at a time,” says Raj, whose journey from India to Ireland has been shaped by perseverance, hard work and family support.
His goal is simple—to build a stable life, bring his family closer, continue growing professionally and enjoy the present. “I’m grateful for the journey and excited about what comes next,” he signs off.
