STUDENT LIFE
Want to see what our students have to say about us? Read our student testimonials and find out for yourself why Atlas is the premier choice for education. From their personal experiences to their overall satisfaction, our students’ voices are a testament to the quality of our programs and the dedication of our staff.
“English is important to me because it provides me better job opportunities, and I also really like traveling and exploring the world; speaking English allows me to talk to people from all over the world, making new friends from different countries.”
Camila, Colombia
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, January 2024
Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?
Hi, my name is Camila, I am 25 years old and I am from Colombia. I am currently finishing my studies in university where I study political science. During my free time, I like watching movies or going out with my friends or family.
Why is learning English important to you?
English is important to me because it provides me better job opportunities. Additionally, I also really like travelling and exploring the world. Speaking English allows me to talk to people from all over the world. It turns out to be useful while travelling, plus it helps me make new friends from different countries.
Why did you choose Atlas Malta?
I heard about Atlas Malta from one of my close friends. He went to Atlas Malta approximately four years ago. He told me about his experience and how Atlas Malta has helped improve his English. I was immediately convinced to also go to Atlas Malta because of his good experience.
What do you like the most about Atlas Malta?
First of all, the incredible teachers who helped me improve my English level. They have all been very supportive of me and have greatly motivated me. I also really like my classmates. I am good friends with all of them. Everyone tries to speak with each other and make friends. In a very multicultural environment, it can be more difficult to make friends. Therefore, I am really grateful for my classmates.
Have you visited any other countries so far?
As mentioned before, I am really into travelling. I have taken this opportunity to explore Europe more because it is easier to fly to other European countries from Malta, rather than from Colombia. The cities I enjoyed visiting the most were Paris and Warsaw. However, I want to continue travelling and discover more about this part of the world.
Which is your favourite spot in Malta?
My favourite spot in Malta is Mdina which is an ancient fortified city. When you are there, it’s like taking a trip back in time. The architecture looks very different from Columbian architecture and is more medieval-looking. It is also a very quiet and peaceful place, where cars are not allowed, and where there are only 300 inhabitants.
What was your first impression coming here?
Malta is very beautiful and different from where I come from. Malta is surrounded by sea but in my city (in Columbia) there is no sea at all. I really enjoy going towards or walking along the coastal paths. The first city I went to was Valletta. I took a tour there and learned a lot about Valletta’s and Malta’s history. It was very educational and beautiful to walk through Valletta.
What was your first impression coming here?
Malta is very beautiful and different from where I come from. Malta is surrounded by sea but in my city (in Columbia) there is no sea at all. I really enjoy going towards or walking along the coastal paths. The first city I went to was Valletta. I took a tour there and learned a lot about Valletta’s and Malta’s history. It was very educational and beautiful to walk through Valletta.
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
I would tell my friend that Atlas is not only a great school for learning English but also a great place to meet people from all over the world. I have been able to meet people from Brazil all the way to Japan. I also really like the dynamics of the school and the social activities it offers. With the social activities, I am able to socialise and learn more about Malta.
“Apart from the quality of the teaching, the best thing about Atlas is the social programme. I studied in another English school before, which was good but didn’t offer such a wide range of activities outside classes.”
Romain, France
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, December 2023
Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Romain, I come from the city of Bordeaux, in France. I just turned 39 years old and I am a nurse. I have known Atlas for over 6 months now. I first did a 2-week course in June and decided to come back in September for a longer period of time.
Why did you decide to come to study in Ireland?
I chose to come to Ireland because it is an English-speaking country, but not only. Just after the covid crisis, I really needed to take a break from my routine. I found cheap flight tickets and decided to stay 5 weeks in Dublin. I didn’t go to any language school at that time, I met a Trinity College student who gave me private lessons to improve my English. Quite surprisingly, I enjoyed it. I never really liked studying foreign languages before, this experience really inspired me to continue in this direction. When I came back to France, I looked for subsidies and applied for “Congé Individuel de Formation (CIF)” in order to get some financial support to study in an English school.
How did it go for you on the professional side? Did you encounter any difficulties when you decided to come here?
I am a freelance nurse, which means that I am an independent contractor. Basically, it allows me to modulate my working hours according to my availability, so it makes the whole process way easier. Usually I am covering my co-workers during their holidays and the rest of the time I can study at Atlas.
Do you plan to stay in Ireland in the future?
Right now I want to focus on improving my English, but in a few months I would like to find a part-time job here – maybe in a cafe as I worked in the hospitality industry before. I might as well work in a hospital as a nurse. I think it would be very interesting to compare the Irish and French systems, but first I want to be more confident with my English. No matter what I will decide to do in the end, I am aware now of all the great opportunities we have when we speak English. I can now think about starting a new career in the EU, or even in other countries!
Are the classes you are currently following at Atlas different from the ones you had back in France?
It is totally different! At Atlas the teachers are using various methods in order to make the class as interactive as possible, and the topics are always very interesting. Moreover, they are truly benevolent, they made me feel comfortable straight away. When I was studying English at school in France, there were over 30 students in the room. The teacher didn’t really have time to focus on each student. Also, there is the fact that we are fully immersed in the language here, so we can progress way faster.
Would you recommend Atlas to a friend? What are the advantages of studying here?
Definitely yes! I would say that, apart from the quality of the teaching, the best thing about Atlas is the social programme. I studied in another English school before, which was good but didn’t offer such a wide range of activities outside classes. I think it is essential, especially when we are going abroad for a long period of time. These activities really help to make friends, get to know the city and feel more comfortable. It is never easy to come to a foreign country alone, that’s why it is very important to have some space to socialise – all of this truly contributes to our general well-being in the end.
What do you like the most about Dublin?
The music culture is definitely one of the things that makes Ireland so special. In addition, Dublin is a human-sized city, it is a capital but doesn’t feel like it. It is very lively, there are always many things to do. The first time I came to Dublin, over 10 years ago, I made friends with whom I always remained in contact with, and we have been seeing each other every year since then. I have the feeling that somehow it feels easier to make and keep friendships here.
Do you have any place in Dublin or in Ireland that you particularly like and that you would recommend to our students?
I recently started to go around Dublin: Bray, Howth… These coastal towns are wonderful and very easy to reach by public transport. Otherwise, I would definitely say the pubs with live music, which are a huge part of the Irish experience. I would recommend going to Fibber Magees – it is a local pub with music, food and generally speaking a fantastic atmosphere!
“English gives me more opportunities for my future. […] Atlas Malta is very international and gave me the chance to meet lots of friends from all around the world and it is amazing!”
Kai, Japan
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, December 2023
Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?
Hi, my name is Kai, I’m 24 and I‘m from Japan. Right now, I’m a university student and I’m majoring in tourism. I love watching films, playing sports, and games. I also have a part-time job at a restaurant in Japan.
Why is learning English important to you?
English gives me more opportunities for my future. If I speak English, I can talk to many people from many different countries. In fact, I am doing that now. Before I came here, there were fewer opportunities. Atlas Malta is very international and gave me the chance to meet lots of friends from all around the world and it is amazing!
Why did you choose Atlas Malta?
I heard from my agency that there are fewer Japanese people at this school. I really wanted to lessen my opportunities to speak Japanese in order to improve my English. Even though there are still a lot of Japanese here, I am glad to see them. We all came here to learn English and broaden our horizons. Moreover, we all have friends from other countries, so it pushes us to speak English anyway!
What do you like the most about Atlas Malta?
It’s definitely the people going here – students, interns, and teachers. Everyone is kind and friendly, I mean it. It sounds cliché, but it‘s true. At first, I was nervous and scared of feeling lonely, but everyone’s been so welcoming.
Have you visited any other countries so far?
Yes, so far I’ve visited Croatia. I never travelled before – I realised how easy it is to travel to other countries in Europe, and I really enjoy that. In the future, I definitely want to go to Hungary because of one of my lovely friends, and also the Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia.
Which is your favourite spot in Malta?
One is Valletta, and one is Scott 6 (my accommodation). I really like my flatmates and spending time with them, it is a great way to improve my English as well. Regarding Valletta, it is just the most beautiful to me. A couple of weeks ago, a friend took me to see the sunset at Barrakka Gardens, and it was absolutely stunning! I didn’t know we could see sunsets like this.
What was your first impression coming here?
Malta is very different from my country. In Japan there are no stone buildings, so for me everything I see feels new. The language is also very different – it made me a bit nervous at first, but now I really enjoy all of it.
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
Well, it‘s a fantastic place to learn English and make friends from different countries. Even though one month ago we didn‘t know each other at all, we are now very close and share a lot with one another. Even after school, we go to places together to discover Malta! The locals are also very polite and welcoming.
“We really liked the course and the international environment at Atlas. Our favorite thing about the course was definitely the content related to the UN 2030 agenda on sustainability and the environment.”
Valentina & Götz, Erasmus+ teachers from Italy and Germany
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, August 2023
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and the reason that brought you to Atlas?
(Valentina) My name is Valentina, and I am from Pescara, in Italy. I am an English teacher in a Secondary School. I chose Atlas because I wanted to attend a course that would give me the opportunity to improve and practise my English. I also wanted to go back to Dublin.
(Götz) My name is Götz and I am from Müllheim in Germany. I teach Letter, Latin and Philosophy in a Secondary School and I am also the Erasmus Coordinator, that is the main reason why I am here, I was curious about the course.
What do you like the most about Atlas?
(Götz) I really like the course and the international environment at Atlas and especially in the class. I was worried that there could be too many Germans at the school, but one of the things I enjoyed the most was the fact that there were many students coming from different countries.
(Valentina) Yes exactly, we had a lot of Italians, Spanish, German, Polish and Hungarian students in our class! Moreover, I really appreciated the friendly environment at Atlas. I also enjoyed the course, the topics, the materials and the teachers.
Would you say it is easy to apply and get the funds from Erasmus?
(Götz) Definitely. Once it used to be more difficult. But now it has become quite simple because we have an Erasmus accreditation. We can apply for money every year and then the only thing that you have to do is find some interesting courses matching the goals of your own school.
(Valentina) I agree, but for me the only difference was that I had to make sure that the hosting institution had an OID. But besides that, the only thing that I had to do was find the right course (and the options were almost infinite) and apply!
What is your favourite thing about the Sustainability course that you are following?
(Valentina) Definitely the content. I also have to teach Civics in Italy, and the UN 2030 Agenda with the sustainability and the environment related contents are part of what we teach. I also liked the fact that the course wasn’t all the time focused on sustainability but also on Language and Methodology which I benefited a lot from since I am an English teacher.
(Götz): The content as well. Since sustainability is one of the Erasmus goals, it matches perfectly with what we teach in our Secondary School in Germany.
Would you say you have learnt some skills at Atlas that you will for sure use for your classes?
(Valentina) Absolutely! I really liked the reading circle activity. I feel it really teaches the students to focus on the activity, to take their responsibilities and to get them into reading.
(Götz): I liked how the teacher pushed the students to talk and share their opinion without focusing too much on mistakes because otherwise some of them may have felt uncomfortable to speak.
What advice would you give to an incoming student?
(Valentina) I would recommend them to be careful with the Irish language! I have risked many times to miss my bus stop because they were announced only in Irish.
(Götz) I would advice them to have a visitor (Leap) card, it is very useful for a short day as 7 weeks.
Would you recommend Atlas to future students?
(Valentina) Yes, I will for sure recommend it. In fact, I already did.
(Götz) Absolutely. One of my colleagues will also join the school!
“Everyone tries their best to ensure everyone is happy, which makes the school feel like one big family.”
Karen, Colombia
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, September 2023
Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?
Hello, my name is Karen, I am 29 years old and I am from Colombia. I arrived in Malta in April and I am going to stay here until Christmas. In my home country, I specialise in journalism. I am an editorial editor of gender equality columns in El Espectador’s newspaper. I can do this job remotely from Malta as well but I am also working as a waitress in Valetta. I work at the restaurant ‘Tico Tico’. I wanted to work in Malta to further practice and improve my English.
Why is learning English important to you?
I think that speaking English is a really important skill to have. In my case, I decided to start learning English because I wanted to improve it from a linguistic point of view. Since I studied in high school, I have always had a strong Latin American accent, so one of my weaknesses is the pronunciation. I have been working on it hardly and I am gradually getting better every day to reach this goal.
Why did you choose Atlas Malta and what do you like the most about it?
I wanted to study abroad in an English-speaking country, to really improve my English. Malta stood out to me because of its friendliness towards tourists. When I first had a look at all the language schools, Atlas stood out among the others as the best one. I really liked the building, location, and teaching method.
All the students, teachers, and staff members are very friendly and always willing to help you. Everyone tries their best to ensure everyone is happy which makes the school feel like one big family. I have made a lot of new friends, “sisters”, and “brothers” and I have heard that this is not always the case at language schools.
Have you visited any other countries so far?
No, not yet but I am planning to go on a trip to Rome next month. I also want to visit some other European cities such as London. However, I want to wait until after the Christmas break because I do not want to take a long vacation right now and stop my classes.
Which is your favourite spot in Malta?
Valletta is by far my favourite place in Malta. I especially love the architecture in Valletta, it is beautiful. It actually really reminds me of the architecture back in my family’s hometown, Cartagena de Indias. Therefore, it feels like I am home again when I walk through Valletta.
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
I have actually talked about Atlas to my best friend. She is also considering coming to Atlas Malta to improve her English. I recommend this school because it is excellent at teaching English, but more importantly, the other students and staff feel like a family. Everyone is really nice and friendly and helps me feel more at home. It is also interesting to learn about everyone’s different cultures and backgrounds. This in combination with Malta’s hospitality, Atlas is great place to improve your English.
“We really felt welcomed here and could actually see that they care about their students. All the staff were so nice and helpful.”
Hana & Lenka, Erasmus teachers from The Czech Republic
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, August 2023
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and the reason that brought you to Atlas?
We are Hana and Lenka, two English teachers from the Czech Republic. We are working in the same school in Netolice, and we decided to come here to develop our skills – especially our knowledge about Ireland. We realised that we teach a lot about British culture, and not much about Irish culture, and that’s such a pity!
What was your first impression when you arrived in Dublin? And at the school?
Everything was new and very exciting. When we arrived at the school, the first thing we thought was that the building was absolutely gorgeous! Afterwards, the school’s manager came to our class to say hi. We were surprised about that, because it is quite unusual to get the opportunity to have a chat with the person in charge. We really felt welcomed here and could actually see that they care about their students. All the staff were so nice and helpful. During our stay, they came to our class to check if everything was fine and asked if we needed anything, and we really appreciated that.
What are the main differences between your home country and Ireland? Did you experience any cultural shock?
Driving on the left side of the road was very confusing at first! Otherwise, we can say that we have quite the same humour, the Irish are very sarcastic, and so are we. Generally speaking, we think that the Irish are way more welcoming than the Czech, though. Sometimes people just start talking to you on the street, even though they don’t know you. This would never happen in the Czech Republic, small talk is not really a common thing.
What do you like the most about Atlas?
Well, we really enjoyed everything! To be honest, we had a look at many language schools in Dublin, and Atlas seemed to be the perfect fit. We appreciate the small things here : the cleanliness, the posters and notice boards in the classrooms… It can seem irrelevant, but it makes the learning process much more enjoyable. The course was fantastic and the staff were always very helpful and kind. Besides that, we enjoyed all the activities organised by the school. The pubs, the museums, the trip to Bray as well. We are now looking forward to the trip to Kilkenny!
What is your favourite thing about the Language Methodology and Culture course that you are following?
Definitely the teacher, we love Patrick! The way he teaches, the topics we went through – all of it was very interesting. He always gave us the possibility to express ourselves and was very keen on listening to what we had to say. Overall, we had great discussions throughout the classes and it was very enriching. Moreover, we focused on pronunciation, which was great because we usually don’t take much time for it. In conclusion, after we had experienced this, we actually would like to apply Patrick’s teaching methods to our classes back in Netolice.
Among everything you did during your stay here, what is your favourite memory?
It would probably be the Irish music. There is nothing comparable to listening to live traditional music in an Irish pub!
What advice would you give to an incoming student?
Just relax and enjoy! And also, never feel ashamed to ask any questions, because the staff will always be glad to answer them.
“One of my aims was to introduce Japanese culture to Malta. Atlas has provided me with so many opportunities to achieve my aim since I arrived.”
Chika, Japan
Studied and worked with us in Atlas Malta, August 2023
Introduce yourself and tell us what are you doing in Malta?
Hello, I am Chika, I am a 21-year-old Japanese girl from Osaka. I was a student at Atlas Language School in Ireland and then in Malta. I subsequently had the opportunity to do an internship at Atlas Language School in Malta. I’ve been currently in this role and I really love it! I really like the environment here: all the people and my team are very kind and friendly.
Why did you choose to come to Malta and what do you like the most about Atlas?
One of the main reasons why I chose Malta was because I wanted to travel around Europe and the cost of studying abroad is lower than other countries. It is an English- speaking country in Europe, a World Heritage country. Plus, it is an attractive holiday destination. It was the first furthest trip I’ve ever gone on! One of my aims was also to introduce Japanese culture to Malta. Atlas has provided me with so many opportunities to achieve my aim since I arrived. What I liked about Atlas it’s the people. Everyone has always been kind to me, starting from my classmates to my teachers and then my team! Furthermore, I had new opportunities everyday to get to know different cultures and always learn new things!
Did you meet a lot of people from different countries? What do you think this brought you?
I’ve met many people from a variety of countries since I came to Malta. It is the most fun and exciting thing for me about Malta. Meeting people from different countries with different cultures, foods, rules, ways of thinking and customs is very satisfying. I embraced the differences with love. Then, my perspective, thoughts, and knowledge were greatly expanded and my mind was enriched. I had never been abroad and had always lived in Japan before I went to Dublin where my adventure started. Getting to know people with different backgrounds made me realise that Japan has its own unique culture and differences. Living in Malta made me more active and happy and I received a lot of love and happiness.
What were the things you enjoyed the most during your 2 months stay in Malta?
The thing I enjoyed most about Malta was building relationships. Thanks to Atlas, it is possible to meet and talk with a lot of people. However, it is difficult to make deep relationships because of the limited period. I enjoyed getting to meet new people, learning about their culture, having conversations, eating meals, and improving human relationships.
How is Malta compared to your country and/ or city?
Malta is a bit like Japan. There are many tourists and they all come for holidays and entertainment. Although the atmosphere and buildings are quite different, the purpose of tourists is a bit similar.
Do you have any advice or tips to anyone who would like to come to Malta to work or study?
I would recommend that people come to Malta for a long period to make the most of their stay here! If I were to go and study abroad again, I’d choose Malta without any hesitation!
“These six months helped me to figure out my needs and future projects. I think I grew up a lot and found myself again, so that’s why I can say that Atlas was a life-changing experience. Now I am ready to start a new life back in Italy!”
Matteo Mariano, Italy
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, July 2023
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and what you are doing here in Ireland/at Atlas?
My name is Matteo, I am 22 years old and I come from Italy. I have been studying at Atlas for six months now. My goal when coming here was to improve my English.
How was your English before coming here? How is it now? Did you improve any other languages?
My English was terrible before coming here, I was really insecure and could barely introduce myself. I started with A1 and now I am in B1, so I am really happy about that! I also improved my Spanish a lot thanks to my spanish- speaking friends.
What do you like the most about Dublin?
There are so many different cultures here, so much diversity. For example, there are many Brazilian, Arabic, Japanese, Korean, Chinese and Turkish people. It is really multicultural and I love it. Generally speaking, I like differences and I just found Dublin to be a safe space for everyone.
Why did you choose Atlas over other language schools? What is your favourite thing about it?
I saw different schools on the internet and I figured out that Atlas would be the best because they are offering a lot of activities besides classes. I also appreciated that I could either stay at the Residence or with a host family. I decided to live at the Residence because I like the fact that I can easily meet other students and make new friends there.
What did you find the most challenging when you came here? How did you overcome it?
I would say that the language barrier was the most difficult thing because I couldn’t speak a word of English when I arrived. My dyslexia was also quite challenging because it made the learning process more complicated and confusing. My teachers, Ali and Pandora, were amazing because they helped me overcome these difficulties.
In just one word, how would you describe this experience?
I would say “Rebirth” because I feel like a new person thanks to this experience. I was feeling down before coming here and didn’t really know what to do with my life. These six months helped me to figure out my needs and future projects. I think I grew up a lot and found myself again, so that’s why I can say that Atlas was a life-changing experience. Now I am ready to start a new life back in Italy!
What place in Dublin would you recommend to incoming students?
There are so many places I love in Dublin! If I had to pick only one, I would say The George because the atmosphere there is amazing. This is a bar/nightclub hosting drag queen shows during the week and disco parties with really good music during the weekend. I really like it there because you feel free to be yourself. In general, what I liked here in Dublin was that I could be myself without feeling judged. One more piece of advice: just take things as they come and enjoy!
“Our classmates, teachers and the staff members are so nice and caring. They are always trying their best to help students out.”
Mauricio and Valeria, Peru
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, June 2023
Hello, please could you tell me a bit about yourself?
Hello, my name is Valeria, and I am from Lima in Peru. I started working after finishing my studies in 2020. The reason why I decided to come to Malta was because I got a bit bored with my daily life in Peru and wanted to discover new places, therefore I decided to explore new places, cultures, food and travel abroad with Mauricio.
I am Mauricio, I am also from Lima. As well as being a student at Atlas Malta, I am also Valeria’s boyfriend. I’d been working as an accountant before I came to Malta since finishing my bachelor’s degree in 2017. Currently, Valeria and I are studying at Atlas and working at the same time at a beach club restaurant. For us, it is sometimes challenging, but often interesting. It gives us the opportunity to practice our English everyday. Beyond this, it is our first time being abroad and living together without our family.
Why did you choose Atlas Malta?
Mauricio: We actually made our decision based on the pleasant weather in Malta. Malta has a reputation for having sunshine 9 months of the year. The island’s geographical location is ideal for traveling all around Europe.
Valeria: I was charmed by Malta and found it stunning. I already knew Mdina from the TV series called Game of Thrones. We specifically chose Atlas Language School thanks to a friend of mine who had studied at Atlas Dublin before. Then, we started searching for some information about Atlas Malta and eventually, we made up our mind.
Why is learning English important to you?
Valeria: Speaking English in Peru is a big advantage. You can have better job opportunities. I would also say that being bilingual in our society is seen as a good way to stand out in the crowd. Indeed, speaking English is not really common in our country. For all these reasons, we decided to move to an English-speaking country and improve our language skills.
Mauricio: In fact, as an accountant, speaking English was already required by my job. In the company where I was working, we had so many international customers that I had to communicate with them in English. For this reason, I already knew some business jargon in English, but I still needed to improve my grammatical skills.
Valeria: I remember a girl coming to the office and asking for help, but we couldn’t communicate with her because she didn’t know any Spanish and we couldn’t speak English either. From that moment, I understood the importance of speaking better English.
Did the school live up to your expectations?
Yes definitely! Our classmates, our teachers and the staff members are so nice and caring. They are always trying their best to help students out. Even though we have a lot of students from Latin America in class, we always make a lot of effort to chat in English.
However, to be honest with you, it is sometimes helpful to have Spanish speaking classmates, in case we cannot find words in English.
Have you visited any other countries so far?
No, we haven’t yet but we are planning on visiting Italy, Spain, Greece, and France.
We’re going to organize our trips by checking our lessons and work rosters. We definitely would like to travel around Europe and meet up with Valeria’s family in Spain. Actually, Malta is the first foreign country we’ve visited together.
What do you like the most about Atlas Malta?
Mauricio: I really love the people at Atlas, staff members, our teachers and the interns. They treat us very well and make us feel comfortable.
Valeria: My favorite thing about Atlas would be the weekly social activities, they are very interesting and well-organized. Their social events help us get to know other students and different cultures. In addition to this, we use the opportunity to practice speaking.
What are your favorite activities to do in Malta?
We often go to the beach and enjoy doing some sight-seeing. Malta has fascinating landscapes and beaches that are really worth visiting.
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
Valeria: Our story started with a recommendation from my best friend who had studied at Atlas Dublin. I decided to enroll in a course at Atlas but, unfortunately, the Covid pandemic broke out, so I had to postpone it. My friend insisted that I should go and have this experience. I was convinced and excited. I shared this idea with Mauricio. We decided to come here together and get out of our comfort zone in order to get to know more about the world, to broaden our horizons while exploring new cultures. I’m very glad we have each other as a support. Long story short, if I were to recommend Atlas to my friends, I’d definitely tell them to take the opportunity and not miss out!
Mauricio: I’d tell them to go abroad, travel around the world. Taking Peruvian people as an example, there aren’t so many Peruvian people in Malta and I’d like to encourage them to come here and see how friendly people are in Malta.
“Atlas has a great multicultural environment. There are not only Mexican or Spanish speaking people here, I really loved that we are encouraged to speak English to include everyone, it’s a great way to learn. I also really loved the social programme activities.”
Rodrigo Sanchez Dagnino, Mexico
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, May 2023
Please introduce yourself and tell us what you are doing in Ireland
My name is Rodrigo and I am from Guasave, Mexico. I was working as a civil engineer for 5 years and, at the moment, I am also an entrepreneur. Here in Ireland, I’m studying English and working as a waiter and sometimes as a bartender. I was planning to stay here for only 8 months, however, I really enjoyed my time here, so I realised I’m not ready to say goodbye yet
Why did you choose to come to Dublin? What did you know about Ireland before you came here?
The original plan was to go to Vancouver, Canada, to improve my English, but I changed my mind…I thought about the United States, but I was still not sure. One day, a friend of mine asked me “Why don’t you go to Ireland? You will be able to travel around different countries in Europe!” This opened my mind to the idea. Before coming here, I didn’t know a lot about the small Island but then when I arrived I discovered so many new things especially thanks to the amazing multicultural environment here.
Have you made new friends in Dublin? Are they of many different nationalities?
I have met many diverse new friends all from different countries and I really fell in love with all of their cultures. I have friends from; Italy, Germany, Turkey, France, Japan, China and… I’m sure I have forgotten some of the other nationalities! I really love discovering and learning about the different cultural mannerisms, for example; the different ways of saying “Hi”. For some people the greeting is one kiss and a hug, it can be two kisses and a hug, for some people just a handshake or for others no touch at all. I also really enjoy sharing recipes from different countries since I am passionate about cooking!
Have you had any difficulties during your learning journey? How did you overcome these difficulties?
I didn’t have any major troubles in my learning journey. Maybe, in the beginning, I was feeling a bit lonely out of school time, because I met a lot of people at Atlas but I still had to know them better. It was my dream to come here and improve my English, so I told myself I had to live it fully. I started to go out with my friends more and more, I went to bed later and woke up earlier. I realised I was not tired at all; when you’re happy and enjoying life you get natural energy!
What is your favourite activity to do here? Did you have the opportunity to travel while you were in Ireland?
My favourite way to spend my time here is to hang out with my friends, I cook for them too, everybody loves Mexican food! I also enjoy going to pubs and clubs in Dublin, ‘The Academy’ on Abby Street is my favourite. I would highly recommend going to the parks here, Phoenix Park and St. Stephen’s Green are so nice to spend an afternoon! I travelled a lot here in Ireland, I visited such places as Kilkenny, Cliffs of Moher, Howth and many others. Next, I am working and saving money to travel all around Europe.
What do you like about Atlas?
Atlas has a great multicultural environment. There are not only Mexican or Spanish speaking people here, I really loved that we are encouraged to speak English to include everyone, it’s a great way to learn. I also really loved the social programme activities. It is impossible to get bored at Atlas, every day we have different events and tours organised for the students, even at weekends! If you participate in these activities you can make more friends, it’s great. When I tell my friends from other schools of our activities here, they are always surprised because they don’t have anything like that at their school. However, The best thing about Atlas is the staff, they are always helpful, lovely and friendly. I am not prepared to say goodbye to the school and to my friends yet!
How would you recommend Atlas to your best friend? Do you have any study/work advice or tips?
I would say, as in my previous answer, that there are so many things I love about Atlas. I would also tell them; school is not enough. We have 24 hours in a day and lessons are only 4 hours, more or less, so to keep learning you should meet often with your friends to get used to speaking English. You could also get a part-time job to earn some money and of course, again to practise your English. If you want to work here, start to apply for your GNIB at least one month before coming, it always takes a while to get your appointment but if you need help you can always ask the lovely staff here at Atlas.
“What I really liked about Atlas is the environment and the team, everyone is very helpful and nice. What I also really liked is how international the team is, it really brings a lot of new experiences and understanding of other cultures.”
Isabel San Miguel Chover, Spain
Worked with us in Atlas Dublin, May 2023
Hello, my name is Isabel, I am 24 years old, I am from a city called Sagunto in Spain. I studied fine art to become a secondary school teacher. I am currently doing a hospitality internship at the Atlas Residence and I love it. I really like the people there and my team is great. They all are from different parts of the world: Brazil, Chile, Italy, Colombia or France.
Why did you choose to come to Ireland and what do you like the most about Atlas?
If I had to be honest, the main reason was that, as a European, it is now easier to go to Ireland than going to the UK, and I really wanted a place to improve my English. I saw the Atlas internship offer on LinkedIn and I told myself, why not? And I don’t regret it at all!
What I really liked about Atlas is the environment and the team, everyone is very helpful and nice. What I also really liked is how international the team is, it really brings a lot of new experiences and understanding of other cultures.
Did you meet a lot of people from different countries? What do you think this brought you?
I met so many amazing people from all around the world. This really helped me improve my English and I even got the Cambridge C1 certificate which I am really happy about.
What were the things you enjoyed the most during your 6 months stay in Ireland?
I would say travelling around Ireland with the friends I made at Atlas. I think it is very important to participate in the school social programme, it helped me meet a lot of new people. The activity I remember most fondly was the Karaoke night, it was so much fun!
Atlas also organises trips all over Ireland, and thanks to that, I was able to visit places like Kilkenny, Killarney, Cork and Galway. As it was my first time in Ireland, everything was very new to me.
How is Ireland compared to your country and/or city?
Ireland and Spain are very different but I have found Irish people to be welcoming and understanding. The biggest « cultural difference » that I faced here was eating meals earlier than at home. My host family usually eats at 6 pm, whereas in Spain, we normally have our dinner at 8 or 9 pm and lunch at 2 or 3pm. However, I got used to it after 2 or 3 weeks!
Do you have any advice or tips to anyone who would like to come to Ireland to work or study?
Bring a rain jacket. You should also be ready to eat potatoes every day. I would also advise people to prepare enough money as Dublin, and Ireland in general, is quite expensive. Also, if you need accommodation, you should start looking well in advance as finding a place to live can be very difficult.
“Education, accommodation, social events…Everything is pleasant at Atlas. School always offers us new experiences, such as social activities, conversation classes, and so on. For instance, I am trying to join all of them to improve my English.”
Omer Ozunoglu, Turkey
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, April 2023
Tell me a bit about yourself.
My name is Omer Uzunoglu. I am 27 years old. I studied Business Management and I graduated from Sakarya University in Turkey in 2020. I was working at the Corporate Finance Division as an accountant before I came to Malta. I also studied prep-class during a year at the University before working in the Business Department.
Tell me a bit about your city/town in your country.
I am from a city called Sakarya in Turkey of 1 million inhabitants. We have a big lake named Sapanca in my hometown. This is the most beautiful part of Sakarya as a natural place. Besides, my city is also near Istanbul (about an hour by car).
Why did you choose to come to Malta?
In my opinion, living in Malta is very exciting and attractive! English is one of the official languages on the island that gives us the opportunity of practising the things in your casual life that we learn in our lessons. On the other hand, I had other reasons that motivated me such as good climate, personal interest about history and the stunning landscapes. Moreover, travelling from Malta to other European countries is also quite easy.
Did the school live up to your expectation?
Yes! Even more than what I expected. Education, accommodation, social events…Everything is pleasant at Atlas.
School always offers us new experiences, such as social activities, conversation classes and so on. For instance, I am trying to join all of them to improve my English. I believe that socialisation is a great clue for this.
All of our teachers have very good pedagogy. I love it. I’m also sure that if I had a problem someday, the school would be able to solve it immediately.
How your schedule is organised at Atlas Language School?
My classes start at 13:30 and finish at 17:00 because I am an afternoon student. During the classes, every foreign language skill is studied at the same level (listening, speaking, writing, reading).
We are learning a variety of topics and practising them every day. It can concern the field of sports, culture, and history.
What is your favourite things to do in Malta?
I really enjoy school activities related to sports (football, laser tag, basketball, beach volleyball…)
What do you like the most about Atlas?
In Atlas, I feel like home. Everybody is very friendly and kind. I also like having international friends with whom I can share many things about our culture and hobbies.
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
Atlas takes care of everything for you, you can rely on them. If you come to Atlas, you will have the most unforgettable experience of your life.
“Atlas Language School gave me a huge opportunity to develop my speaking skills and enhance my self-confidence(…) It provides good education with ambitious and innovative methods and has a good reputation across the country.”
Maciej Jaszczyk, Poland
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, March 2023
My name is Maciej Jaszczyk. I am from a small town in Poland. I am currently studying for an MA in Business Management in Germany. I also work part-time in a Bank.
Why did you choose to come to Malta?
Malta is in the EU and not too far away from Poland so it was easy to come here. The main advantages of coming to Malta are that one of its official languages is English and the availability of many language schools with highly qualified teachers which enables you to improve your English and reach your goals.
What did you know about Malta before you came here?
I knew that Malta was a popular tourist destination amongst Polish people and it is well-known for its academic opportunities since I had friends from high school who came here to work as interns or study English. Apart from that, my sister had stayed in Malta before I came here, that’s why I was quite well informed about the culture, the social life and the cost of living.
Did the school live up to your expectations?
Definitely! The school is located in a safe area and well-managed. It provides good education with ambitious and innovative methods and has a good reputation across the country. The entire team in the school is always supportive and ready to assist the students with anything. It is that kind of school where you feel welcomed and taken care of and you want to stay for a long time.
Did you like the teachers? What do you think of them?
All of them are experienced, patient and empathetic. The teachers and the students are very respectful to each other. Every class is well-organised and I love the well-balanced lessons, which include different activities, so you can learn more effectively.
Have you made new friends in Malta? Of many different nationalities?
Of course, I’ve met a lot of friends from all around the world. Most of them are from South America. We’re still in touch and chatting at every free moment.
Have you had any difficulties during your education? How did you handle them?
English is my second foreign language and it was demanding for me to start talking in English. I used to speak German a lot because of my studies and out of the blue switching from German to English was a big challenge. Atlas School gave me a huge opportunity to develop my speaking skills and enhance my self-confidence. What is your favourite thing to do here? Thanks to the beautiful weather in Malta I can do all the sports that I love, especially swimming, cycling and running. One of my favourite activities in the summer was going to the beach to watch stunning sunsets or swimming in the sea.
Have you got a message for new students?
Yes, for those who are still thinking about visiting Malta and attending an English course, don’t be scared because the school guarantees your safety and assists you with every step you take. Malta will be unforgettable for you!
“Atlas Language School helped me build the foundations of my international job career (…) the Atlas staff is always available to help you if you have any questions (…) The teachers are very professional at teaching and very friendly as well (…) ”
Fabiola Leone, Italy
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, December 2022
Hi! My name is Fabiola Leone and I come from Rome, Italy. I’m a 24-year-old drama student attending the final year of university. I chose the Atlas Language School to improve my English and also, because I love meeting people from different countries.
Why didn’t you choose the UK or the USA, for example?
I chose Ireland because entering the United States or the United Kingdom is harder and if you don’t have a passport, as in my case, you can’t enter. Otherwise, entering Ireland is easier for me because, as a European citizen, I did not have any problems with the documents for entering the country.
What did you know about Ireland before you came here?
Well, to be honest, I didn’t know a lot about Ireland before I came to Dublin. All I knew was the rainy weather. I hadn’t searched for photos or videos about Ireland before I came to Dublin. I preferred to discover everything once I arrived in the country. In this way, you aren’t aware of what to expect from your journey, and consequently, you can enjoy the experience more.
How long have you stayed in Dublin? Would you have liked to stay longer in Dublin?
I have stayed in Dublin only for one month, although I would have liked to stay longer in order to study and find a job there.
Have you been anywhere in Ireland that you would recommend to other Atlas students?
Regarding amazing places to visit in Ireland, I would recommend The Powerscourt Gardens, Glendalough, and my favourite place, the Giant’s Causeway. The last one is a breathtaking landscape where you can admire a fusion between mountains and the ocean.
What would you suggest to a new student on their first day at Atlas Language School?
I would suggest creating unforgettable memories of your time in Ireland by joining as many Atlas activities and trips as possible.
What do you like most about Atlas?
It’s hard to answer with just one thing. I especially love the Atlas staff who are always available to answer any questions you may have and the Atlas teachers who are very professional in teaching, but also very friendly.
“The teachers at Atlas are the best. Their methods of teaching are very inclusive and they always make an effort to understand and help everyone. I like my classmates and the staff is very helpful. They always try to motivate us to take part in the social programme, which is great fun and has a lot to offer.”
Gabriel Avila, Panama
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, October 2022
My name is Gabriel Avila. I am 20 years old and I am from the province of Veraguas in Panama. Before I came here, I was studying biology. After returning to Panama, I will finish my Bachelor of Science. In my free time, I like to go skateboarding, play the guitar and ride motorcycles.
Why did you come to Malta and are you glad to be here?
I have always wanted to learn English, so I was looking to apply for a scholarship programme. After sending my applications, I was chosen for a scholarship which provided me with the opportunity to study English in Malta. At first, I did not know much about the country. However, the more I got to know about it, the more I liked it. It is a very good place for improving your English and I enjoy learning about Malta’s history, visiting its skateparks, going to the beach and having fun at parties.
Have you made new friends in Malta?
Yes! I am an outgoing person and Atlas has allowed me to meet many nice and interesting people. I have also made a bunch of friends at the skatepark and parties.
Are you going to travel while you are here?
Since I am in Europe now, it is easier for me to travel around. So yes, I would like to visit a few countries, especially Italy, Germany and Turkey.
How is Malta different from your home country?
The main differences are the culture and the infrastructure. Most of Malta’s streets have neutral colours and only a few plants. In contrast, Panama has very vibrant and colourful streets with a lot of vegetation.
What has been your best experience in Malta so far?
My best experience has been studying at Atlas and meeting people from all over the world. At first, I thought it would be difficult to find friends but everyone here is very cool, laid back and friendly.
How would you describe your first week in Atlas?
In my first week, everything was new to me. It was a challenge, since I had never travelled abroad before, but the people at school made me feel welcome and comfortable.
What do you think about Atlas and have you got any advice for new students?
The teachers at Atlas are the best. Their methods of teaching are very inclusive and they always make an effort to understand and help everyone. I like my classmates and the staff is very helpful. They always try to motivate us to take part in the social programme, which is great fun and has a lot to offer. For new students, I would advise them to enjoy their time as much as possible. Visit new places, make friends and don’t be afraid of making mistakes as you can learn from them. Study as much as possible, do your best in class and don’t be scared to ask questions! Most importantly, enjoy the process!
“It’s a very good school to study because people take care of the students and our progress. If we have any weak points in English, the teachers immediately try to help with that. Even the process to get to Atlas Malta is very easy.”
Pedro Pares, Venezuela
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, June 2022
Hi! I’m Pedro, and I’m from Valencia, Venezuela. I’m 24 years old, and I studied International Business in Panama, where I’ve been living since I was 18. I like sports, and extreme sports like surfing, horse riding, hiking. But football is one of my favourites. And I love talking to people!
Have you talked to a lot of Maltese people?
Yes, I have met a few Maltese people in a park where I go to workout. Those guys have been showing me around the island.
Have you made new friends in Malta?
Yes! That’s one of the facts I love the most about Malta – the multiculturality. I’ve been able to meet new people at the school, as well as outside of the school, like in touristic places.
When you came to Malta what places did you want to visit?
Valletta, for sure, it’s the capital! And I really want to visit Mdina, but I haven’t had the chance yet.
Have you been anywhere in Malta that you would recommend to other students?
The Blue Lagoon, in Comino, and Valletta are beautiful. But my favourite place is Portomaso Bay! It’s not surrounded by many people, so you can relax and just look at the boats. It’s quite quiet.
Are you going to travel while you are here in Malta?
I want to, but I have to wait for my passport. It was easy to come to Malta, because I didn’t need a Visa, but now I have to wait before travelling around Europe. I want to go to Greece, Paris, Spain… And I would also like to go to Egypt since it’s so close to Malta.
Is Malta different from your country?
The airport is very similar to the one in Valencia, and the weather is also pretty much the same. The biggest difference is the driving and the way the streets are constructed here. Like, they don’t have highways. I also miss the mountains back in Venezuela! They don’t have any here.
How would you describe your first week in Atlas?
I was very excited, because I dreamed about coming here for so long. My first week was kinda like I expected, in a good way!
What has been the most memorable thing about studying at Atlas?
The International Dinner! It was great because we had the chance to share dishes from different countries.
What do you think about Atlas now?
I love it. The teachers are very prepared to transmit the lessons, and they are very nice too. The staff is always available to help you if you have any questions.
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
It’s a very good school to study because people take care of the students and our progress. If we have any weak points in English, the teachers immediately try to help with that. Even the process to get to Atlas Malta is very easy. The people who help us are friendly, the payments are very safe, and the school has a lot of credibility.
“On my first day, I was surprised by how modern the building is. It’s not like the schools in France, which are more old-fashioned. And the fact that we can see the sea from the school also surprised me. The teachers are very attentive, they really want us to improve! And they don’t judge us when we make mistakes, they don’t look down on the students.”
Emma Jolly, France
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, May 2022
I’m Emma, I’m from Besançon, France. It’s a small town close to Switzerland. It’s very quiet, but there are a few places there worth visiting – like the Citadelle, for example. And the people there are friendly, so that’s nice.
Do you like travelling? Which other countries had you visited before you came to Malta?
I have mostly travelled within my country, but since France is next to Spain and Italy, I’ve been able to spend one day or two there every now and then. But now that I’ve come to Malta, I want to visit a lot more countries – Korea, Turkey, and South America. Every country has something different to offer, and now I know people who live there, so it’s easier to go!
Why did you come to Malta?
The boyfriend of one of my college friends had been here in Malta. He really enjoyed it, so he recommended it to me. Meline and I considered other places, like Dublin and Australia, but we decided to come here since it’s cheaper and closer to France. Malta’s good weather and its famous party scene also helped with the decision!!
What did you know about Malta before you came here?
The parties!! When I got here I was surprised in a good way, they definitely lived up to the expectations! I also knew about the Blue Lagoon in Comino, I really wanted to go there.
And have you been there?
Yes, I have. The landscape is beautiful, but I wish there were fewer people there so I could actually appreciate nature. But yes, it’s BEAUTIFUL there!
What is your favourite place in Malta so far?
The Riviera Beach! Meline and I went there soon after we arrived in Malta, and the beach was empty. It was so calm, and I think it was the most beautiful sunset we’ve seen on the island so far!
What do you like about Malta?
The weather – even if it was so and so sometimes. I also love seeing the sea every day, and Valletta is great. And the people here come from all around the world. Everyone is super open-minded and friendly, it’s very easy to meet new people! I have made a lot of friends here, but we know that after we leave Malta we’ll probably never see each other again, it’s very sad. But maybe we will meet again, let’s hope so!
How is Malta different from France?
I mean, it’s still Europe, so a lot of things are similar. But the driving here IS weird – both the fact that the cars are on the right side of the road and the driver’s attitude.
What do you think about Atlas?
On my first day, I was surprised by how modern the building is. It’s not like the schools in France, which are more old-fashioned. And the fact that we can see the sea from the school also surprised me.
The teachers are very attentive, they really want us to improve! And they don’t judge us when we make mistakes, they don’t look down on the students. I don’t feel like there’s a strict hierarchy in the classroom.
What has been the most memorable thing about studying at Atlas?
Meeting people from so many different countries, for sure! Now I’m able to speak with people I don’t know. Back in France, we don’t really do that, we mostly just talk with our friends and family.
Have you got any advice for new students at Atlas?
Enjoy every day, because time goes by very fast! And don’t leave anything for tomorrow, because the weather might not be good! 😂!
“During the three months that I’ve been here at Atlas, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in my English! Now I’m able to read books in English, go to the movies, and actually understand what the characters are saying… and it’s all thanks to Atlas Language School Malta!”
Subin Park, Korea
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, April 2022
I’m Subin Park, and I’m from Yeoju, South Korea. I’ve been studying at Atlas Language School for 3 months, and I’ll be staying here for 3 more. I really like to travel and to get the chance to see new places, to be around new people. I’ve been to Milan, London, Vienna, and Venice, and I can’t wait to travel even more! I just love to look at the architecture, the colours, the textures… and to just sit back and watch people live their lives.
What do you like about Malta?
Even though I am used to travelling on my own, living in Malta has been a new and challenging experience for me. Now I have to cook for myself, clean after myself, go to the store to buy stuff… and I also have to put myself out there, meet new people, and make new friends. This was something I didn’t really know how to do before, but ever since I came to Malta I’ve become much better at it! And it helps a lot that everyone here is super friendly, interesting, and eager to meet new people. It’s also a great way to improve my English since almost everyone I meet is from a different country.
Are you glad you came to Atlas Malta?
During the three months that I’ve been here at Atlas, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in my English! Now I’m able to read books in English, go to the movies, and actually understand what the characters are saying… and it’s all thanks to Atlas Language School Malta!
Was there anything you found surprising about Malta when you first arrived?
A funny, new thing I’ve noticed here in Malta is that people are much more vocal and noisy at the movie theatre. And they actually clap during the film! I was a little scared the first time I went because back in Korea everyone is super quiet. I just hope that once I go back, I don’t start screaming and talking at the movies!
Would you like to stay here after your course ends?
I’m loving being in Malta, but I can’t wait to go back home. I really miss my dog, Pepe, my family, and the FOOD!
What is your favourite place in Malta?
Sometimes when I get a little homesick, sad, and blue I like to go to the beach behind the school, Pembroke Pool. I’ve been there a lot! I was fair-skinned when I got here, and now I’m noticing a tan!
What do you think about Atlas?
Thanks to the morning class schedule, the students here get a lot of free time to do other stuff… and it’s very good for people who also work in Malta! So I would definitely recommend the school to my friends. I would also maybe consider staying here a little longer. I just love the people, the island, and the warm weather!
Thanks, Subin!
“I highly recommend studying at Atlas in Malta. The people are very nice to each other and everyone is really close. It is so easy to find friends here!”
Hiromi Sakade, Japan
Studied with us in Atlas Malta, March 2022
My name is Hiromi and I am from Japan. I am 22 years old. I enjoy watching movies and reading books.
What do you do in Japan and why did you come to Malta?
Before I came to Malta, I was a university student. I was studying international business with a focus on trade between China and Japan but after the pandemic started, I quit and decided to go abroad. There were not many places you could travel to. So, I started to do research and I heard that Malta is a good place for studying abroad. The people in my agency were friendly and helped me decide. I came here in May and spent the summer in Malta. Considering the timing and the country’s character, Malta was really the best option for me.
Did you have any expectations of Malta or Atlas Language School?
I had many expectations since I researched a lot about Malta before I came here. I also heard that there are only a few Japanese students and I thought that might be good for me. That way, I could improve my English more since I’d have to communicate with people from different nationalities. I was also a little bit worried about going abroad by myself but my flatmates welcomed me and made my time here enjoyable.
Have you made any friends?
Yes, I have made a lot of friends here. Most of them are from different countries and I enjoy hearing about their cultures. I have also been enjoying conversations about the similarities and differences between everyone’s languages.
What was your first impression of Atlas?
My first impression was that the school is stylish and clean. The teachers are amazing and so kind. Also, the apartments are clean, since there is a cleaner coming every week to keep everything in good condition.
What was your most memorable experience at Atlas?
My most memorable experience was travelling with my friends to visit the students, who had already graduated from Atlas, in their home countries. We went to many different places and tried each country’s local food.
Do you enjoy studying here?
Yes, I do! I have met so many people and the time I am spending with them is so precious to me. In Japan, I can’t have the same experience. Of course, it was a bit difficult in the beginning, but my newfound friends and the teachers helped me with everything.
Would you recommend Atlas Malta to other people?
I highly recommend studying at Atlas in Malta. The people are very nice to each other and everyone is really close. It is so easy to find friends here!
Do you have any message for new students?
At first, I was nervous and worried about staying in Malta by myself. I was very self-conscious about my English. However, there is nothing to be scared of. As I mentioned before, everyone here is very helpful. Keep in mind that nobody is perfect and we are here to improve, which I definitely have!
“Atlas is a great place and the perfect institute to learn English. The teachers that I had were excellent and the building and facilities are great.”
Alvaro Javier Forteza Martinez, Uruguay
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, March 2022
Hello, my name is Alvaro. I’m from Uruguay and I’m 37 years old. I came here to improve my English level in order to find better job opportunities in the IT department. At the moment I’m working remotely for a Uruguayan company. I kept the job because I knew I would struggle here in finding a new one at the very beginning.
Why did you choose Ireland for your study destination?
For me, Ireland was the best possible option. I chose Ireland because of my age and it was one of the English speaking countries that allowed me to work as well as to study at the same time.
What are your favourite spots in Ireland?
Since I’ve been in Dublin, I visited a few places. I love the parks, especially Phoenix Park which is enormous. Besides Dublin I went to Bray and I was able to visit the cliffs. It was very interesting and I enjoyed it very much.
What do you like about Atlas?
Atlas is a great place and the perfect institute to learn English. The teachers that I had were excellent and the building and facilities are great.
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
No doubt: Give it a try! It’s really recommended and is one of the top places. I will definitely recommend it to my friend who is thinking about doing it as well!!
“What I love about Atlas is how reachable everyone is! The team is so responsive and willing to help you, from the admissions team to the teachers and the exam coordinators. I found the classes and materials to be very appropriate, too!”
Florencia Balbi, Argentina
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, March 2021
I’m Florencia from Argentina. I moved to Ireland two years ago with the idea to stay no more than a year! At the end, I am still here because I fell in love with the country and its people! I am an accountant and I had the chance to work, for a few months, in the Finance Department in an Irish company. Currently, I am working as a childminder and this is also a great experience for me!
Why did you decide to study English?
I’ve always been fascinated about languages. I started studying English when I was 8 and I remember enjoying the classes since the very beginning. After ten years I sat for the Cambridge FCE and didn’t go any further because I was moving to a different city to go to college. I always had that pending task of sitting for the CAE exam and that’s the reason I joined Atlas in 2020.
Why did you choose Ireland?
There are two moments I chose Ireland; first, when I chose it to move to. The reason behind this wasn’t very romantic, it was because I wanted to live abroad, preferably in Europe, and Ireland’s official language was English!: second, when I decided I’d like to stay longer! I fell in love with the kind people, the rural sides of it, how everything is so close and how I can see myself living here 🙂
What are your favourite spots in Ireland?
So many spots I loved in the Emerald Island! But if I had to choose, I’d say Galway city, County Sligo, and Leixlip, in County Kildare, where I live now 🙂
How do you feel about studying during COVID-19 times? Do you like our online classes?
These are challenging times we are living in. At first one would be happy to skip the long commute to school: but after two weeks attending classes in our pyjamas we find ourselves appreciating the times we spent in the classroom with new people that would more easily become our friends! It’s a bit harder to stay focused while in online classes, but a collaborative group of students and great teachers is what makes it enjoyable.
What do you like about Atlas?
What I love about Atlas is how reachable everyone is! The team is so responsive and willing to help you, from the admissions team to the teachers and the exam coordinators.
I found the classes and materials to be very appropriate, too!
Finally, Atlas itself, in normal circumstances, is so enjoyable to hang around!
“Atlas is special. When you talk about Atlas with other students or people from Dublin, you talk with pride about studying at Atlas. There is a sense of belonging that is generated in the first weeks when you experience the human warmth of the staff. I was only looking for an English course, but here I found more than that. I will leave with a life experience and with new friends. All of this certainly could not be achieved without the staff at Atlas. Why do I like Atlas? Because I feel very happy here.”
Gino Bustamante, Chile
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, February 2021
Hi. Im Gino. I’m coming from Chile, capital of Santiago. I’m an engineer by profession, but I’ve specialized in information security and organizational behaviour management. The last two years I’ve been travelling, mainly in South America, but before that, I worked for the government of Chile in the area of planning and cybersecurity. As a hobby I like to take pictures. I believe that there are no good or bad pictures, each one contains a great number of interpretations.
Why did you decide to study English?
Different experiences in my life always related to the English language. But it was not easy to learn English in Chile. While I was travelling I decided to study English since I wanted to visit more countries where Spanish, my native language, was not spoken. Instead of just visiting, I went further and decided to live the experience of living in an English speaking country. Atlas has answered many of my questions about how to learn English, as well helped me to overcome certain fears of speaking and using English.
Why did you choose Ireland?
Ireland is undoubtedly a very interesting country in many ways: history, landscapes, economically stable and in constant technological growth. It also has job opportunities for language students which allow students to continue studying English or pursuing another degree. Also, if you want to get to know Europe, Ireland is an excellent base. There are very cheap flights from Ireland to the rest of Europe. These and other points were the ones I considered when I did my analysis of where to study. So, the next step was where I was going to live and study in Ireland. I decided to live in Dublin because all I have heard about this cosmopolitan and artsy city has been excellent. Furthermore, there are job opportunities for students with a stamp 2 visa and it has the biggest and most beautiful park in Europe: Phoenix Park, i love it…! In conclusion, you have: beautiful and old infrastructure with a lot of history, job offers, good parties (and believe me this is important because this is where you practice your English the most) and excellent connections for your trips.
What are your favourite spots in Ireland?
Getting to know Ireland has been amazing. Without a doubt I could not have learnt about so many places without Atlas. When you arrive at Atlas you will not only learn English, but you will also be filled with experiences. When I travel with the school I don’t only get to know the places, I also learn about the culture, the history of the places and their people. At the moment, one of my favourite places is Sligo because you can practice surfing and you can sleep in your camping tent. I also like the Kilkenny Castle which is impressive. I plan to rent a car and see the places I’m missing (this is another point in favour of Ireland, rent a car and travel around the island), I would like to see several more places, like Cork, Killarney, Dingle, or the Clonmacnoise Monastery.
What do you like about Atlas?
Atlas is special. When you talk about Atlas with other students or people from Dublin, you talk with pride about studying at Atlas. There is a sense of belonging that is generated in the first weeks when you experience the human warmth of the staff. I was only looking for an English course, but here I found more than that. I will leave with a life experience and with new friends. All of this certainly could not be achieved without the staff at Atlas. Why do I like Atlas? Because I feel very happy here.
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
I would tell you that our memories are one of the most valuable assets we possess and if you want to add beautiful memories while learning English, you have come to the right place.
“I would really suggest Atlas to everyone! It has the best teachers, who are all really friendly and easy to communicate with. This helps me gain the confidence to speak English at all times. I always share posts and stories about the school on my Social Media and a lot of my Turkish friends contact me to know more…but not only my friends! Quite a lot of people get in touch with me through Social Media to learn more about Atlas, and I am more than happy to give them all the information they need. I am always happy to advertise Atlas if I can! found the classes and materials to be very appropriate, too!”
Tuba Mine Akoca, Turkey
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, March 2020
My name is Tuba, I am 23 and I come from Turkey, where I graduated in Industrial Engineering. I love travelling, learning about new languages and cultures. This is why I decided to go on Erasmus, choosing Naples in Italy as my destination. And then, 4 months ago, I chose Dublin! This is a really good opportunity for me to meet people from different countries and expand my horizons.
What do you like most about Atlas?
I like my friends here! I can learn how to speak Portuguese, Italian, Spanish and practice with them everyday. I also really appreciate the teachers, not just the ones in my class but all of them.
How is Dublin different from your hometown?
My hometown is Kayseri, located in the Anatolian region, in the centre of Turkey, and it’s very different from Dublin: from the weather down to the way our homes look. We have high floors and four seasons, while in here there are three or four floors in each house and there is only one season: rain!
What is the best thing you have seen or done in Ireland so far?
Here in Ireland, I have the chance to work part-time and earn a salary for the first time. It makes me feel much more confident, because I can pay for my own rent and I don’t need to rely on my family for economical support. Now I feel like I could do anything!
Would you suggest Atlas to a friend?
I would really suggest Atlas to everyone! It has the best teachers, who are all really friendly and easy to communicate with. This helps me gain the confidence to speak English at all times. I always share posts and stories about the school on my Social Media and a lot of my Turkish friends contact me to know more…but not only my friends! Quite a lot of people get in touch with me though Social Media to learn more about Atlas, and I am more than happy to give them all the information they need. I am always happy to advertise Atlas if I can!
“Although the current situation is very different due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Atlas staff are quick to respond to any queries. If you have any problems or questions, they will guide and support you!I am also very satisfied with the online classes as they are still interesting and of high quality. The Atlas teachers are energetic and give constructive feedback, too. Every day in class is memorable!”
Kim Narye, Korea
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, February 2021
Hi! I’m Narye Aka Reina. I’m 31 years old from Korea and my home city is Seoul, the capital of Korea. After majoring in fashion, I worked as an Underwear Merchandiser for almost 7 years.
Why did you decide to study English?
While working in one field for a long time and thinking about changing jobs, I wanted a new challenge abroad. Therefore, I decided to study English while also getting a break. I was worried about starting something different in another country, but for me, this became an exciting new experience.
Why did you choose Ireland?
To be honest, I wanted to go to a big city, study and acquire new skills. While I was looking for different countries, I got to know Ireland. Among them, I notice that Dublin is a small city but offers many opportunities and it’s the home of warm people. Indeed, the first welcome was a very bright smile and positive energy from everybody.
What are your favourite spots in Ireland?
For me, being in Ireland means that everywhere I am is the best place to be. One of my favourites is the Grand Canal, which flows through the center of Dublin and past Atlas, too. After class, I really like to take long walks along the canal. Here, I meet many people who run, ride bicycles or walk like me. Try it and bring your friends after class!
What do you like about Atlas?
Although the current situation is very different due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Atlas staff are quick to respond to any queries. If you have any problems or questions, they will guide and support you!
I am also very satisfied with the online classes as they are still interesting and of high quality. The Atlas teachers are energetic and give constructive feedback, too. Every day in class is memorable!
If you were to recommend Atlas to your best friend, what would you say?
I would say: just go to Atlas!
The team there is always available for you and they are so enthusiastic.
In addition to regular classes, there are social programme activities where you can practice what you have learned in class.
At the end, your last day at Atlas can be very emotional because you don’t want to part with them!!
“Atlas is wonderful! It’s nice to have friends from so many different countries. The academic part is also great: I study in the morning and in the afternoon I can join all the different activities. I’m very thankful to Atlas, studying here has opened up a whole new world for me.”
Jair de Rissio, Argentina
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, January 2020
I’m Jair from Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. I’m a student in Atlas but back home I’m an industrial engineer. I also used to do Judo and compete on our national team. Argentina is a really beautiful country. From Patagonia in the south to Jujuy in the north, there’s so much to see and do!
Why did you decide to come to Ireland?
After some time backpacking in north Argentina, I realised I really wanted to travel, so I started to do some research. At first, I applied for universities here in Ireland but, as it was very expensive and I couldn’t get a scholarship, I had to change my plans. I felt like Ireland was calling me and I really needed to come here, so I decided to study English. New Zeland and Australia were also an option but I just knew it had to be Ireland.
What are your feelings about Ireland now?
Dublin is much smaller but also much safer than my hometown. Despite the wet and windy weather, I really like the architecture, the atmosphere, and the people here. It is difficult to be far from my girlfriend and family, but from the moment I set foot in Ireland, it felt like home! I am very happy here.
What do you like about?
Atlas is wonderful, I’m really in love with the school. I tell everyone how nice it is to have friends from so many different countries, cultures, and religions. Here we all communicate in English and it made me realise that, despite our differences, we share the same problems and dreams. The academic part is also great: I study in the morning and in the afternoon I can join all the different activities. I’m very thankful to Atlas, studying here has opened up a whole new world for me.
Thanks Jair!
“Atlas is like a family! The environment at Atlas is simply special, people are friendly and helpful and even silly questions are not turned down but openly welcomed. There is always something going on with the social programme during the week and the organised activities at the weekends, so it’s never boring!”
Camila Sanhueza, Chile
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, June 2019
That simple question turns out to be a bit tricky. Originally I am from Concepción in Chile, but I’ve moved a lot in my life. I’ve attended 10 different schools, done an exchange in New Zealand, spent a year in Brazil and 10 years in Argentina before moving to Santiago in Chile. I am studying International Trade in Santiago when I am not here in Dublin.
How’s Dublin different from Santiago??
The people, the size and safety. With a metropolitan population of 1.8 million, Dublin is way smaller than Santiago which has 6.5 million inhabitants. Consequently, Dublin is much safer and I don’t feel threatened when I walk alone at night. Also, people are friendlier and more fun and it is very common here to go to bars and pubs.
Do you have some advice for new students??
Be prepared for the weather – it is a stereotype that turned out to be true! Apart from that, you get ready to eat a lot of potatoes. Also, don’t be shy and go to the extracurricular activities as you will make great friends there. And very important: don’t be afraid of the Irish accent and try to use your native language as little as possible.
Where to go in Ireland?
I have joined many of Atlas organised activities, such as Saturday day trips and overnight weekend trips. On top of my list are the cities Belfast and Galway and the seaside towns Greystones, Howth and Malahide. Within Dublin my favourite spots are St. Stephens Green, Phoenix Park and the Grand Canal next to Atlas Language School. If I head for a beer I like to go to Devitt’s and order a pint of traditional Irish Smithwicks.
What do you like most about Atlas?
It’s like a family! The Atlas staff and teachers are lovely and being friends with the interns is great fun. The environment at Atlas is simply special, people are friendly and helpful and even silly questions are not turned down but openly welcomed. There is always something going on with the social programme during the week and the organised activities at the weekends, so it’s never boring! Just go to the social activities and have fun with your friends!
Thanks Camila!
“The structure and international spirit at Atlas are delightful as I love to learn about new countries and cultures! It’s amazing and great how energetic and motivated the teachers are. I have worked in a Summer Camp and been in a similar position, so I know that it is not always easy to keep people engaged and attentive.”
Lianni Estefania Angeris Ling, Uruguay
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin, June 2019
I was born in Venezuela but moved to Uruguay’s capital Montevideo 4 years ago. I travel a lot as my family is quite spread out: my father lives in Colombia, my mum in Argentina, my brother in Mexico and my grandparents in Miami. After having studied Graphic Design I launched my own company and am now working as a freelancer. So if you’re looking for a logo or website, just get in touch via website: liahdesign.com and instagram: @liahdesign
Why did you choose Ireland?
Ireland has a lot of green countryside and The Legend of Zelda is one of my favourite Nintendo games and has many “greenish” background images. The game therefore reminds me a lot of Ireland! Apart from that, I am interested in Celtic Culture. It has been a big dream of mine to come here and improve my English. I even sacrificed my precious Nintendo which I used to play Zelda on and resold it.
Anything that poses difficulties?
The amount of doors to my apartment! It literally takes me 9 doors to enter my room! Also, everything seems to be upside down and people drive on the “wrong” (left) side of the road. So make sure to change your language for navigation to British English and don’t use American English. I encountered the problem that Google Maps always told me to “keep right” when I was cycling, which is obviously wrong!
Any tips for new students?
Get yourself a bike and most importantly: get a proper unbreakable lock with it! It will save you a lot of time and money. You will see more of Dublin, are not limited by time and will get healthy and fit at the same time.
Where to grab good food in Dublin?
For Ice Cream you should head to Amorino, which is close to St Stephen’s Green. The blueberry cheesecake flavour is delicious!
For the best Fish & Chips I’d recommend to venture out to the seaside town Howth, it’s just a short train ride from Dublin.
Finally, guess what I suggest to get at The Queen of Tarts in Temple Bar? Tasty tarts! Make sure you choose the Baileys cheesecake.
What do you like about Atlas?
The structure and international spirit at Atlas are delightful as I love to learn about new countries and cultures! It’s amazing and great how energetic and motivated the teachers are. I have worked in a Summer Camp and been in a similar position, so I know that it is not always easy to keep people engaged and attentive.
Thanks Lianni!
“It’s grand! I cherish that my team is very international with staff from many different countries. I like that I get to learn new things every day as every student and case is different and there are always new challenges.”
Kathleen Pourchet, France
Worked with us in Atlas Dublin, May 2019
Hi Kathleen! Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from?
I moved several times during my life but would call Strasbourg (France) my hometown. It’s a nice student city which is close to Germany, has a tram that works properly, has loads of events, is eco & vegan friendly and is the seat of the European Parliament. I am in the second year of my Master’s Degree of “Educational Mobilities Management” in Caen. Currently I am doing my internship at Atlas in the Admissions Office.
Why Ireland and Atlas?
My brother moved to Cork in Ireland in 2011 and I have been visiting the country at least once a year since then. In 2016 I also spent my exchange year in the south of Ireland in Cork. I wanted to work for Atlas as it is a big school in Ireland and I was eager to do an internship in a company where I can actually learn things.
Are you living with a host family?
Yes I do and recommend it 100%. It’s probably a bit calmer than if you lived in a shared flat with other people but that’s good for me, as I need to do lots of work for university. Also my host mum is amazing! She is literally my “second” mum. She doesn’t only cook for me, but we watch movies together, get take-away food, go out together, she dropped me at a friends place by car and once she even bought me some clothes.
How’s the Admissions Office?
It’s grand! I cherish that my team is very international with staff from many different countries. I like that I get to learn new things every day as every student and case is different and there are always new challenges. Additionally, we often have pastries (croissants!!) on Fridays.
Anything noteworthy about your work colleagues?
I feel a bit outnumbered by the first names of my female colleagues at Atlas. All their names end with an “a” (e.g. Alessia, Mariana, Annika, Nikolina, Andrea, Lucia, Elisa, Camila, Ada – and the best of all Laura) – only my name Kathleen is different.
What do you like about Atlas?
The people! I like working in an international environment with nice people.
Any tips for new students?
If you do not have a Leap Card and you want to go on the bus in Dublin: make sure you take cash with you!
Visit places around Dublin, such as Howth, Bray and Dun Laoghaire.
Thanks Kathleen!
“I really like it here, everyone is very nice and that makes Atlas a great place to practise your English and meet new friends at the same time.”
Reno Akutsu, Japan
Studied with us in Atlas Dublin
Hi, I am 21 and I come from Yokohama, in Japan, which is just a train ride away from Tokyo. I live a bit outside the city so I am always surrounded by the beautiful nature of the rural area, there is basically nothing else around. Now that I live in Dublin I get to experience the city life, as well as move around the country thanks to its cheap transport fees (cheaper than the Japanese ones!).
Why did you choose Dublin?
I am majoring in English literature at my University, so I chose to come to Dublin to improve my language skills. I feel that when you study literature you usually do not get used to speaking the actual language, the way people would talk to each other on an everyday basis, but rather to the old version of it. I would rather study more natural, conversational English.
How is Ireland different from Japan?
Everything here is very different, from the food to the buildings, and I really like that. I am particularly enjoying staying with my host family because I get to experience more of the Irish lifestyle every day – even though I don’t always understand what they are saying, due to the strong Irish accent.
Your favourite spots in Ireland?
I actually had the chance to visit different parts of the island thanks to the school’s weekend activities. I have recently visited the Guinness Lake and I loved that, as well as the Dublin Castle and Malahide Castle. They were both really impressive because each had its own style, which is different than what I am used to. Japanese castles all look alike and have a rather basic style.
What do you like about Atlas?
I really like it here, everyone is very nice and that makes Atlas a great place to practise your English and meet new friends at the same time.
Any tips for new students?
Let’s speak English! You probably won’t get another chance to study in a different country and meet people from all corners of the globe, so try not to stick with people that come from your own country and speak the same language as you. Instead, you can explore other people’s culture and background by using English as a way to get in touch with them.
Thanks Reno!