Teaching and Learning in Dublin Past Review
By Laurel O (Middle School Education, Champlain College) for
Champlain Abroad: Study in Dublin
I learned a lot about myself through the program. Simply by getting to Dublin with my own money, I learned if I work hard I can go anywhere. From being in the city I learned being adventurous is an amazing quality to have. While I often find it hard to be spontaneous, being abroad taught me that stepping out of my comfort zone is necessary. Being outside of the U.S. has taught me that there is more than the U.S. I feel more compelled to stay up to date with global current events. I truly feel like a citizen of the World now. I have found that I really enjoy traveling, and hope to teach abroad in the future rather than in the U.S. I would certainly be more inclined to accept a job in other country.
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 workload was very reasonable. I never spent too much time on homework, but still learned a lot from my classes. I found that some of my professors didn't give a lot of feedback, but this is cultural. Many of the professors lectured, which I don't mind, but is different from a typical Champlain College course. I loved the amount of trips outside of the classroom we went on though. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I loved the location of the academic center and the amenities available there, such as the computer lab, TV, wii, books, and lounge area. Stephen and Claire were always in the office and always willing to help us or just chat. Because of the small size of the program we all had a strong bond by the end of the program. Claire and Stephen did a wonderful job planning and facilitating trips around Ireland, and other activities (such as horseback riding, trips to the theatre). |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Housing was provided by the college. The neighborhood wasn't swanky, but it was in the heart of Dublin. Some of the residents were a bit rougher, but that can be expected in any major city. The apartment was close to the downtown areas, Temple Bar, Grafton Street, and the Guinness Factory. It was a quick walk to the market or pharmacy. To settle in I only had to purchase some toiletries and cleaning products, as the apartment was fully furnished, had pots, pans, dishes, and bedding and sheets were provided. |
| * Food: |
The school didn't include food, but food was never scare. There was a Spar and Tesco, as well as some smaller local stores less than 5 minutes from the apartment. The food in Ireland just tasted better and more fresh. There was also a farmers market every Saturday tht had an abundance of fresh fruits, veggies, cheeses, and meats. There was a nice mix of fast food places and nicer restaurants (the kind of places you go when your parents visit). Going out in touristy areas (Temple Bar, Grafton Street, etc.) wasn't cheap, but I didn't mind splurging every once in a while. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
One of my favorite school events was the international student BBQ. I was surprised that so many students showed up. We ended up hanging out with theses students for the rest of our time in Dublin, and we plan on visiting them, or having them visit us here soon. Another school run event that I enjoyed was the horseback riding. The views were incredible. During orientation I loved our trip to Bray. I would say that every trip run by the school. whether a day trip or weekend excursion, was memorable and enjoyable. I have no complaints. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I found Dublin to be very safe. We, of course, we told to stick in groups and avoid certain areas. I felt totally comfortable walking around the downtown area any day of the week alone. As far as health issues, the only incident I had was needing an eye exam. The exam turned out to be free and I got a new pair of glasses for 20 euro, far cheaper than in the States! |
| 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?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Save your money! I worked 40 hours a week all summer at a minimum wage job to be able to afford the trip, but it was worth it. I not only had enough money to see Dublin, I had enough to travel to Cork, London, Madrid, Rome, and Paris. I actually saved enough up that I had money when I returned leftover (thankfully). Sticking to a budget was hard, but it was worth it! I think students that crave adventure and unpredictability will enjoy this program. I loved not knowing what I was going to do each day. I could book a trip to London on Monday and big photographing Big Ben by Saturday. I think any major could benefit from an abroad experience. |
Individual Course Reviews
| Course Name/Rating: |
Service Learning |
| Course Department: | EDU |
| Instructor: | Darren |
| Instruction Language: | English |
| Comments: | The course was stimulating and eye opening. It was great to not only learn about the education system in Ireland, but to also learn about other alternative educational services. We went on many school visits during class time, and even got to have a final dinner with our professor at his house. Because our class was so small, I really feel like we became a family. Darren was extremely knowledgable and taught us forward thinking and innovative teaching methods. He always found a way to bring culture into the conversation as well. I was impressed with how he found us all placements. |
| Credit Transfer Issues: | Nope! |
