Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An Unforgettable Experience Past Review

By (University of New Mexico) - abroad from 07/01/2016 to 07/15/2016 with

Ireland Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Not only did I learn about Irish culture, but I gained a better knowledge of how living in a foreign country compares to living in the US.

Review Photos

Study Abroad Programs in Ireland Photo Study Abroad Programs in Ireland Photo Study Abroad Programs in Ireland Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Unlike in a typical classroom environment, we were able to learn through personal experiences. Service work and engagement within the community taught us more about Irish culture and society. My only complaint would be that we were on a very tight schedule and had almost no time to ourselves to explore on our own.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Everyone from Mary Immaculate College was wonderful and a true pleasure to work with.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was very surprised to discover we had private rooms which was a big plus for me.

* Food:

There were some meals that were provided for us, but we had to pay for others. Ireland has great food, just be sure to bring extra money to eat out.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Limerick really started to feel like home by the end of the trip. The service-learning allowed us to integrate into the community because we were able to see daily life from the point of view of the locals rather than just from a tourist perspective.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt very safe in Limerick; I am always be aware of my surroundings.

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

I loved learning about Irish culture and engaging within the community. It was great that we were able to visit different parts of the island.

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The culture
  • Hands-on experience in the community
  • Traveling to see historical sites
* What could be improved?
  • The schedule was rushed and we had limited free time
  • More hands-on experiences rather than lectures
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? What kinds of projects we would be working on, so I could have been better prepared with the proper attire.

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.