History & Culture of Ireland - GMU Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Kelly Dunn, our Academic Director, has overseen this specific Study Abroad program multiple times and enjoys it very much. She makes the trip very hands on learning with many day trips, and only 2-3 days worth of classroom lecturing. She's extremely helpful and knowledgeable about Irish history and culture. The workload wasn't too stressful or too easy - it was perfect and a great way to remember the trip years after you've gone. The use of daily journal entries kept the events you attended fresh in your memory. The final exam was not too difficult as long as you studied and did not spend your night drinking in the pub.

On-site administration of your program

I felt the program's strength was the way in which it was organized. You start in Galway which introduces you to Ireland slowly because its not necessarily as bustling as Dublin. You learn about the history before you become immersed in the culture in Dublin. A week using Galway as a home base, and then a week using Dublin as a home base was very smart to me. I feel like I experienced a lot of Ireland in a very short time period and the friends I made along the way made the trip even more unforgettable.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was arranged in hotels - your roommate was chosen for you, but as Jenna Lashley said - you don't spend much time in your room so it doesn't affect you. The only items you needed to purchase was your meals and drinks. As a college student you should already be used to eating on a budget, so its not much different. Splurge one night here and there for an authentic Irish meal - most of your money will go to drinks at pubs. Make sure you try Bulmer's Irish Cider, Guinness, Jameson, and to stay warm during winter, a Hot Toddy. Trust me.

Food is dependent on your budget, but I never had any complaints.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I made wonderful friends from the program and also those I met in Ireland. It was such a memorable experience that I still talk to a good handful of people on a consistent basis. Throw yourself out of your comfort zone on the trip - go to a club, stay up late. You only have 2 weeks - make the best of it!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I actually got a terrible cold on the trip and came home a day early, but Kelly Dunne was wonderful in helping me get some over the counter cold medicine to tide me over so I could still enjoy all the activities planned. There were no prevalent health issues, just the normal winter cold & I believe one student did get the flu on the trip. She was always told to rest and just to do what she felt she was able to do. There was no pressure for those under the weather (sick-related, not hungover) to push themselves to be as active as they normally would.

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

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