A recent ‘Visitor Attitudes Survey’ carried out by Fáilte Ireland shows that overseas visitors continue to rate Ireland as value for money and that our people, scenery and culture remain our strongest assets.

Almost four out of ten (39 per cent) tourists said that their experience in Ireland exceeded their expectations, while a further 60 per cent said that Ireland met their expectations.

Why did people think Ireland exceeded their expectations?

For these reasons:

• Irish people  – 68 per cent
• Scenery – 54 per cent
• Irish history and culture – 31 per cent
• Weather better than expected – 30 per cent
• Food quality and variety – 21 per cent

The top five experiences mentioned by overseas visitors were:

• Listened to live music in a pub – 83 per cent
• Visited a coastal town – 82 per cent
• Tasted a Guinness – 79 per cent
• Visited a food or craft market – 49 per cent
• Took part in a city tour – 41 per cent

I chose to come to Ireland for several reasons. Firstly, I have always shared with the Irish a passion for folk music and pub culture. Secondly, the history of Ireland – and tales of the nation’s fight and resilience – has always fascinated me, and also how such a small country in comparison to my country (Brazil is more than a 100 times larger than Ireland in area) has such prominence in various fields of interest, such as technology and education. I can say I made my choice based on both reason and heart, and everything pointed towards Ireland being the best country for me. What I can tell you today is that, five months after my arrival here, I could not have made a better choice.

When I first landed at Dublin airport alongside other Brazilian students, there was someone from my chosen college, Dublin Business School, waiting to bring us to our new homes. Once there, another member of staff helped us find our way around and provided us with all the information we needed. From our very first day at college, we were greeted by the staff who explained everything about our new academic routine, and we had several opportunities to meet other students.

I’ve also had the pleasure of being one of the students chosen to meet the Irish Minister of Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn.  One striking sentence during his speech inspired me on the day – one that echoes much of my experience so far – was this: “If you have a problem, any problem at all, look for those responsible at your university and ask for help. If it does not work, get in touch with the Irish education authorities and, if still your problem is not resolved, please email me!” Everyone laughed, and he added: “The good thing about living in a small country is that we know each other. You always know someone who has a brother, who has another brother, who knows someone who studied with your brother, so it’s easy to communicate!”

So, if you are considering Ireland as your destination for studying abroad, I can tell you that you will experience more than incredible scenery, rich culture, great music and entertainment. Besides the opportunity of having a high quality education, you will get all the support you need to make you feel at home here. You will truly get to know the meaning of one famous Irish blessing, “Céad míle fáilte”. It means “a hundred thousand welcomes”, and I really feel like I am collecting all of mine during this year.

You recently enquired with the college in relation to our full-time programmes, We understand that making a decision is difficult, that is why we are here to help. 

We are currently accepting applications for programmes commencing in September 2014.  Why not take the next step on your journey to success today complete an online application form.  We will contact you within 24 hours to discuss the documentation we require from you.

Remember - an early application will result in an earlier decision.


Don't be sorry that you waited, apply today and unlock your potential.

DBS are holding their next Open Event on Tuesday 13th May, 5-7pm.

Our Open Events are an ideal opportunity for you to visit the college and obtain further information on all our postgraduate programmes and speak with industry specialist lecturers to identify the programme that is most suitable for your future development.

For information on our lecturing staff and their achievements and specialist areas, please visit our website for information on our Academic Schools and Staff.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Please be aware that you can call into the Aungier Street building, Monday to Friday from 8.45am - 5.15pm to consult with our Admissions team.

You do not need to make an appointment. You can also contact us on +353 1 4177500 or by email to international@dbs.ie.

Why not contact us today with your questions and take the first step towards your academic development.