My Experience as a Sixth Year Student in Dublin: Balancing Academics, Friendship, and Leadership

Hi everyone! I’m Rima, 17 years old, and currently in my third year studying abroad in the sixth year (final year) at an all-girls boarding school in Dublin, Ireland. This is the fourth country I’ve lived in, after England, Singapore, and Japan. Each place has shaped who I am today, and even after three years, it still feels surreal to be studying here, and growing both academically and personally. I first arrived in Dublin during Transition Year and it’s amazing to think I’m now in my final year of this journey abroad.

Managing Academics as a Sixth Year Student in Dublin

Back in fourth year, I thought I was busy, but sixth year is an entirely different experience. Instead of juggling projects and extracurriculars, my focus is now on keeping up with my subjects and preparing for the Leaving Certificate. I’m studying seven subjects: English and Maths (both required), along with Art, Politics and Society, Physics, Computer Science, and Japanese. I attend three hours of class for each subject every week, except for Japanese, which I study independently since it’s not offered at my school.

Building Lifelong Friendships

When I’m not studying, I spend time with my friends. My best friend, Kiona, who is half-Irish and half-Korean, and I have been close since Transition Year. I also have friends from Hong Kong, Germany, and Japan. The international mix makes my experience even richer. Since we’re mostly all boarding students, we get to spend so much time together, whether it's studying or hanging out. On weekends, I often head to Dundrum or the city centre for shopping. On warmer days, you’ll find me in Stephen’s Green Park, soaking up the sun with cookies from a nearby shop.

Prefect Leadership: Supporting Younger Students

This academic year started in mid-August, and it’s been packed with activities. As a prefect, I helped induct the first-year students and work closely with the prefect team of 19, including the head girl and deputy head girl. Our responsibilities include:

Leading by setting a positive example.
Acting as a bridge between students and staff.
Representing the school at important events.
Creating a supportive and inclusive environment for students.

One of the highlights of being a prefect is taking care of a second-year class. I check in with them once a week, bring snacks, and enjoy chatting while taking the register. It's a great way to connect with students across different year groups.

Chairing the Student Council

In addition to my prefect role, I’m also chairing the student council until December. Though the school year has just started, it’s already been filled with meetings and exciting new ideas. I met the full council in the third week of school, and it was inspiring to see students from each form come together. Leading initiatives that benefit the student body is challenging but incredibly rewarding.

Settling into Boarding School Life

Looking back at my first year, it’s hard to believe how much I’ve adjusted to life at boarding school. Writing this from my own room feels surreal, especially since I used to share a space with four other students in fourth year and two last year. It’s been a journey, I'm now a sixth-year student in Dublin and I’ve learnt so much along the way, particularly with the added responsibilities that come with being the oldest students in the school.

That’s a snapshot of my life right now—between managing prefect duties, leading the student council, and preparing for exams. Things are hectic, but I’m grateful for every part of this experience!