• German for me has always been something I have thoroughly enjoyed and had an interest for, however it is most definitely the German Studies Programme that has further developed my passion for the language. The modules within this subject are precisely arranged so that the student has the opportunity to equally learn and engage in the language and with fellow German students. The lecturers in the German department are invariably helpful and I find that there are many opportunities associated within the subject such as Erasmus/ ELA. I would certainly recommend this programme as you do not only gain knowledge to a beautiful language, you also gain experiences, friendship and a sense of different cultures.” – Albina Haliti

 

  • 'It has been great studying at the Chinese department in Maynooth. It is a small department so everyone knows each other and all the lecturers and tutors are very approachable and helpful. I got the opportunity to both attend a summer school in Shanghai, as well spending a year in China. My Chinese improved so fast, as I had to use it in daily life, and I can now communicate in Chinese. The language is very different to most European languages, which in my opinion makes it even more interesting. Although I am not fluent yet, I have reached a higher level than I thought possible.' - Kristin Bårdsen 

 

  • 'Throughout my three years of French study at Maynooth, I felt constantly challenged: challenged to improve my language skills and my analytical skills; challenged to see things from a different perspective, a global perspective; challenged to apply myself to a demanding and rewarding academic programme. Through all of this challenge I was supported by the dedicated and excellent lecturers and tutors within the department and spurred on by a diverse and engaging programme of study.' - John Killeen 

 

  • 'I began studying Spanish at Maynooth as a complete beginner. I was introduced to the language in a way that focused on practical communication with real people, by educators who had a sense of both fun and function. The broad range of elective modules on offer allowed me to discover new interests, in diverse areas such as translation of children’s literature, graphic novels, and Latin American cinema. As a current PhD candidate who has remained in the area of Hispanic studies, what has stayed with me about my time studying Spanish in Maynooth is the vibrancy of the programme, and the enthusiasm of the people I encountered there.' - Clare Geraghty