Keynote: Roberta Di Gesù & Erica Macari | SRT ConnectED Milan

Study in Ireland: The Student’s Perspective | Insider Guidance, Campus Life & Global Careers Deciding to pursue a master’s abroad is one of the most exciting choices you will ever make, but cutting through marketing brochures to understand what student life is actually like can be daunting. As the only English-speaking hub in the Eurozone and the European headquarters for the world’s leading tech, finance, and pharma giants, Ireland has become one of the most sought-after postgraduate destinations. But how do you choose the right university, navigate housing, and make the most of your international experience? In this candid, conversational Q&A session, Roberta di Gesù and Erica Macari from Enterprise Ireland and the Consulate General of Ireland in Milan pull back the curtain on the real student journey. Drawing directly from Erica’s firsthand experience of moving to and studying in Ireland, this interactive dialogue breaks down the transition step-by-step – offering unvarnished advice, practical tips, and strategic career insights you won't find on a website. What You Will Learn & Take Away: • Targeting the Right Program & University: Practical criteria for evaluating Ireland’s top universities, matching programs to your career ambitions, and navigating admissions criteria with confidence. • Settling In (Housing & Student Support): Realistic guidance on finding student accommodation, budgeting for living expenses, and leveraging university support systems designed to help international students thrive. • The Authentic Student Experience: An insider look at Irish student life and campus culture – from student societies and social life to integrating seamlessly into a welcoming, multicultural society. • Launching Your Career in Europe's Tech & Corporate Hub: How to leverage your unrestricted EU working rights to access graduate schemes and fast-track employment across global tech, finance, pharma, and consulting headquarters. Who Should Attend? • Undergraduates and recent graduates exploring English-taught master's programs in Europe. • Early-career professionals looking to upskill, gain international credentials, and access post-study work opportunities in the EU. • Anyone considering Ireland as a study destination who wants authentic, first-person answers to questions about life, costs, and career ROI. About the Speakers With over 35 years of experience at Enterprise Ireland, the Irish government agency responsible for supporting the international growth and expansion of Irish companies, Roberta Di Gesù has played a key role in fostering and strengthening commercial, institutional, and educational relations between Ireland and Italy. In her role as Market Advisor, she promotes strategic partnerships among businesses, public institutions, and educational organizations, supporting knowledge exchange, innovation, and international collaboration. Erica Macari is an Irish-Italian professional currently based in Milan, where she has lived for the past three years. Born and raised in Ireland, she completed all of her schooling there, including a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Dublin (UCD). During her undergraduate studies, she also participated in an Erasmus programme with Bocconi University. Following graduation, Erica joined the Enterprise Ireland International Graduate Programme, serving as a Market Executive in the Milan office. In this role, she supported Irish companies seeking to develop commercial opportunities and strengthen their presence across the Italian and Greek markets. Following the Enterprise Ireland Graduate Programme, Erica joined the Consulate General of Ireland in Milan. As Executive Assistant, she contributes to the smooth and effective operation of the Consulate through a range of administrative and organisational responsibilities. As Public Outreach Officer, Erica supports the Consulate’s engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders across Northern Italy, implementing communication and social media strategies. This also includes the delivery of cultural, business, and community initiatives that promote Ireland and strengthen Irish Italian connections. In addition, Erica supports the Consulate’s consular work, assisting Irish citizens in the region. Combining her Irish and Italian heritage, Erica is passionate about building meaningful connections between people, organisations, and communities across both countries. Part of SRT ConnectED Milan This Q&A session is part of SRT ConnectED Milan - an international postgraduate event for graduates and young professionals exploring career growth, international study, or executive education. Whether you're considering a master’s, an MBA, or seeking new tools for innovation, the event offers fresh perspectives and practical connections. 📍 Location: The Westin Palace Milan | 📅 Date: 17 November 2026 Join this session by registering for the full SRT ConnectED Milan event here - entry is completely free! By registering, you accept our Terms and Cnditions and Privacy Policy. Your data will be used to send you your QR access code and keep you informed about the fair.