I Love Ireland and Arcadia Abroad Ireland June 30, 2026

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

You get access to Trinity Library Resources which is helpful. Professors are a lot more hands-off, but that wasn't necessarily negative in my experience. Workload is a lot more manageable since more emphasis is put on final exams rather than classwork or midterms.

On-site administration of your program

The Arcadia administration in Ireland are so nice, welcoming, and helpful. The excursions they planned for us were some of the highlights of my time there, so I would recommend reserving spots for those when they open! But they are there to answer any questions you have and are always so kind.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Ensuite bathroom apartments were so nice. Spacious and clean, for the most part. Administration for the accommodations were very helpful and kind as well. Laundry is EXTREMELY expensive at the accommodations and there aren't any alternative options that are realistic. That is where I have detracted a point because it really was a significant burden to me.

Groceries were comparable, sometimes cheaper prices. Had to make all my meals myself, but it wasn't a huge deal because I had the time to dedicate to that. I even began to look forward to it after a day full of classes. Food in Dublin is expensive and, honestly, at large not that great. There are hidden gems though and it was fun to go out to eat every once and a while with friends.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It was hard to make friends with people going to Trinity full-time, but I think that I probably could've done some things differently to make it easier for myself. Going out to pubs, talking to people there, and traveling through Ireland made me feel connected to the local culture. Plus, I really tried to learn about the history through my classes and great museums.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not use the healthcare system, so I have no idea. It was easy enough to go to the pharmacy and ask for pain or cold medication though.

Like any city, you shouldn't walk alone at night, but I never had any issues. In general, I felt safe walking streets alone during the day and at night with friends (a couple times alone too when I had to).

I had a really good time. I felt like I had the best of both worlds with direct enrollment at Trinity and a program cohort.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Could walk pretty much everywhere, so public transport didn't have a huge impact on weekly expenses. Groceries, food/drinks out, and laundry were my main expense. It costs $10 to do one load, so I had to embrace being a little stinky to save money.

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• Dorm
• Apartment

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• Local Students
• Americans

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• The city and country
• Ease of travel
• Approachability of program leaders

• Laundry costs

The Academic or Linguist