Ireland: The Most Memorable Moments of My Life Past Review

By (Communications in Public Relations, Indiana State University) for

Ireland Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gave my satisfaction a 5 out of 5 because of a few reasons. This program really made me realize how small I was. It gave me a sense that America really isn't all there is in the world, and that there's so much out there that I have yet to experience that I want to. It completely flipped my cultural views, and now I'm not afraid to save up money and travel later on in my lifetime.

Review Photos

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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.

The workload was perfectly fine. They gave us time to see Ireland and encouraged us to experience it at every turn. I learned so much about the culture and about the history in the courses I took (History and Mythology).

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Getting to school was fine and getting around town was so easy. The program size was around 30 people and was the absolute perfect size in my opinion.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was absolutely phenomenal. They housed about 4 other American students in my program, as well as about 2 or 3 Italian students. They gave the Americans keys to come and go as we pleased, they just asked that we weren't disruptive and that we were kind and respectful, which was no problem at all. I remember having long talks at night with my Host mom, who was hysterical and insightful. Once, me and my good friend/roommate got into a huge argument and were yelling and screaming at each other over something petty late at night, and she came in and calmed us down and reminded us on how good of friends we were. It was a pivotal point in our relationship, and her kindness will always be in my mind. I love them very, and my friend and I are on the right track together now.

* Food:

The family cooked dinner and it was delicious every time. As for dining options, just visiting local cafes around town and in Dublin will give you the best experience overall.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Glencolmcille. That weekend trip, by far, was the most amazing trip of my life. The whole group bonded on that trip and it will always be something I will remember. We were seriously immersed in the culture of the town, and the landscape was beautiful. A few of my friends and I climbed to 900ft above sea level, to the top of the biggest mountain we could find, and that sight will always be engraved in my mind. That trip is so important to the program, and I know one day I will return there and climb that mountain all over again.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Personally, I have no health issues I can think of. But if anyone ever needed anything, the staff in charge of the program and our host families were there to help at any time.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Host Family

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Staff
  • Learning Experience
  • Friendliness
* What could be improved?
  • Hand out free money?
  • This program was phenomenal, and needs no improving :)
  • Seriously, nothing could be more perfect.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? This program is perfect. Irish people are so nice and helpful, and there is no language barrier. It's affordable, and they really treat you to Irish culture and history. The countryside is beautiful, and you really feel like the world is your oyster after this trip. I encourage everyone to look deeply into this program, because it will be the most memorable moments in your life.