Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A summer of chemistry research and exploring Dublin! September 24, 2024

By (Chemistry, Brandeis University) - abroad from 06/04/2024 to 07/24/2024 with

Arcadia: Dublin - STEM Summer Research - Dublin

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I got to engage in novel chemistry research, apply my skills learned in past experiences, and gain independence as a researcher. Through Arcadia's organization and effort, I got to experience Dublin and visit a few other parts of Ireland with friends.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100-125
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Going to a Tesco and cooking most of your own food will save money

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Research experience
  • Ability to be independent in my work
  • Organization and Arcadia events
* What could be improved?
  • Comminication with PIs about course requirements
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How expensive the stores/pubs around Temple Bar be and that LEAP cards can have funds added through the app.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!