Great Experience in Cork with API Past Review
By Andrew M (PSYCHOLOGY., University of Florida) for
API (Academic Programs International): Cork - National University Of Ireland, University College Cork
My study abroad in Cork was fantastic, and I still think about it often. I've stayed in touch with many of the people I met and I can't wait to go back to Ireland again. Since the program I have seriously considered trying to attend graduate school in Europe. I would recommend API and their Cork program to anyone!
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The university provided ample opportunity to either involve yourself academically or to take a more relaxed schedule and focus on immersing yourself in the culture of the city. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Claire was a fantastic adviser. She led a variety of optional trips and activities included in the program that were often fun and educational but never intrusive, including a weekend trip to Dublin and an outing to a Munster Rugby match. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The student housing was nice enough. The only real negative was the distance from campus and the city center (15 min and 25 walk respectively). However, I would say they were actually spacious and in generally good condition compared to the average American dorm room. |
| * Food: |
The 20 minute walk to the nearest grocery store was difficult, but there is a convenience store a block away. In general, restaurants were fairly pricey, so it was best to make the trip to the grocery and take advantage of your kitchen. I had no problem eating as a vegetarian, however I did miss out on some of the quintessential Irish meals. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Plenty of pubs and clubs within walking distance in the city Center. Cork was a very fun city. Also, the trips and outings led by Claire were all very enjoyable. Irish 'Spring break' lasts basically the entire month of April, so most students were able to travel extensively throughout Europe. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Cork seemed to be a very safe city, and at no point in my wanderings did I ever feel the least bit unsafe. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Cork, and Ireland in general, is a very relaxed place and far different from places like Paris, London, or Madrid. If art museums and upscale night clubs are how you want to spend your time, Cork may not be for you. Cork was perfect for me though, and I think almost everyone enjoyed it immensely. It has all the fun of a big city while still maintaining a distinctly Irish culture. |
