'If societies aren't your thing, there's always Gleeson's': Slovenian woman came to Clonmel in pursuit of her dream job

A Slovenian woman is loving life after moving to Clonmel to boost her career prospects. 

20-year-old Teja Solar always wanted to study Creative Media and Design, but found opportunities limited in her home country.

She says the diverse nature of the course at LIT enticed her to come to Clonmel.

“I moved here from a town called Kranj in late August and plan to get an honours bachelor’s degree at LIT,” Teja tells The Nationalist. 

“I’ve always wanted to study Creative Media and Design. Unfortunately the college I attended in Ljubljana didn’t give me the knowledge I wanted or needed in order to match the current industry standards. I decided to come to Clonmel because I already had friends attending LIT and the course seemed to offer exactly what I wanted. I really hope it will lead to work opportunities in either graphic design or game art design, since drawing is my biggest passion” a motivated Teja continues.

Teja praises the welcoming Irish culture and people. “One of the biggest high points of studying in Ireland for me is the people - they played a big part in convincing me to come here in the first place. Everyone is extremely nice and helpful, even to students which is something I never experienced back home,” Teja smiles.

Teja says the small campus at LIT is a huge plus for students moving to Clonmel from afar. “Everyone seems to be very connected, the lecturers actually remember your name, and you don’t just feel like a number,” she highlights.

Teja offers advice to students struggling to adapt to college life. “I’m not involved in any clubs just yet as my wonderful introverted nature finds it difficult to talk to new people. However, I think you just need to remember that many people are in the same boat as you and not be afraid to initiate conversation. The person next to you is probably just as nervous. And if societies aren’t your thing, there’s always Gleeson’s,” she laughs.

Teja Solar is amongst a group of LIT Clonmel students writing for South Tipp Today in the run up to Christmas. Next issue out Thursday 30th November.