Dare to Delve into Dublin Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I found the classes I participated in both equally challenging and interesting; thus making the courses all the more enjoyable to take, I was curious about the subject matter and it was just hard enough to make me put forth effort but it didn't overwhelm me.

On-site administration of your program

The hosts of our program, Darren, Susanne, Hayley, and Caimohe were fantastic. Very genuine people and very considerate of our needs. If we had a problem they were there to fix it. They always checked in with us and made for certain we were doing okay.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I really enjoyed the concept of living in a rented out house in Dublin, that really added to the experience of learning about daily life in Dublin. While authentic it was also unfortunately authentic in the way that things certainly can go wrong. And they did, we faced many issues with the shower's, the washer gave out, we had trouble with the garbage and some very general maintenance issues that would've been easily solvable except that communication was a struggle with the renter's company. Next time a checklist should be run through the house to ensure that residents can at least having drinking water and the ability to bathe regularly.

The on-campus food at Griffith College was fine but we didn't eat there often. I ventured out into the community for a multitude of Irish and non-Irish restaurants. The variety was amazing and Zizzi's Italian restaurant will always be my favorite stop. Grove Road was my morning stop for tea and a scone on the way to class. Blackbird and Whelans are fantastic pubs with great atmospheres.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt that Irish people are friendly by nature and will smile at you on the morning walk past the canal but making a lasting and solid friendship with an Irish citizen is difficult because everyone is very good at minding their own business. If you are looking for Irish friends you will certainly have to initiate the conversation.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

If I reported an issue with my health I was immediately taken care of whether that was being given a band-aid, directed to the nearest pharmacy and in extreme cases taken to the doctor's office if needed. All was very accessible even though its different than the USA in the way that you don't go to the hospital or the Urgent Care, you visit a small private practice. All my vaccines from the US covered me in Ireland.

I was astounded by the safety of Dublin as a city, I walked all over the city or took the bus just about anywhere I needed to go and I never felt unsafe. It's a peaceful place.

They are beyond willing to work with you through any issues you may have, and they are wonderful with communication.

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

Budgeting helped me in the end but no one warned me how much more expensive Dublin is and how a Euro compares to a US Dollar.

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• The Professors
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