Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Life changing January 24, 2023

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 08/27/2022 to 12/17/2022 with

IFSA: Galway - National University Ireland

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
While abroad i discovered my strengths and my weaknesses. Who I am who I’m not and the young woman I aspire to be. Being in Galway was filled with ups and downs and it took me on a self discovery, healing and self love journey. I became more spiritual and have a closer relationship with God. Being there was not by accident and I’m forever grateful for my experiences in Galway and the people I met there. It’s changed my life forever.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

LOVED my courses at the University of Galway. Some of my corses involved filed work. So we had to volunteer/ service learning or get involved with the materials we were learning.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They showed support only after called out on the lack of support.

* 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

Being in Galway really allowed me to find myself. From the environment to the people I let close. I am immensely grateful.

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? It changed from week to week. Some weeks $80 other weeks $150 and others $400
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? SAVE all the money you can!! You will need it :)

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?
  • The activities/ trips
* What could be improved?
  • Being more accessible to students when needed
  • more diversity
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How it would impact my life/ outlook on life forever

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.