Living In Ireland was the BEST Things I've Ever Done Past Review
By Ruby H (Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication., University of Northern Iowa) for
University College Cork: Cork - Direct Enrollment & Exchange
Going to Ireland made me realize I'm an adaptable person. I don't need much stuff to survive. I figured out what really is important to me, and what I want to do with my life. Got the travel bug and can't wait to see more of Europe.
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 education system in Ireland is very different. The students do not pay for their education, so they do not care. This effects the instructors, and I feel although the education I received cannot be replaced or replicated, it is definitely different from what we're used to in the States. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Basically, if you're adaptable and want to have a good time, go to Cork. It's better than Dublin and a really fun city to be in. The schooling in Ireland will not be what you're used to, and it will probably stress you out if you're a planner-addict like me. It's laid back to the point where it makes you panic at first. I brought some of this laid-back-ness with me, and I wouldn't change it for the world. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Vic Lodge was great- seperate rooms with own bathroom, far away from downtown but really near the gym and campus. Don't live here if you like to party and enjoy short walks home. |
| * Food: |
Ireland has alright food, go to Annie's Gastropub, the Kiwi, Wholey Grain, Tasty Kebab(great drunk food) in Cork. Otherwise, don't be afraid to try the cuisine in foreign countries. Spain was really cheap and good. Germany was amazing. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
UCC's early start programs have great field trips included in your tuition. I took Intro to Management and Marketing in the EU, and loved it. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Vic Lodge is in a very safe part of town. Like any larger city, you have to watch out for certain parts of Cork city. I didn't need to see a doctor, but the student health center was very good to my friends! |
| 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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Direct Enrollment/Exchange
| * Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? | Direct Enrollment |
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 do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | You must be able to meet and bond with new people. This is crucial. Be adaptable in all situations. Use RyanAir. Buy stuff and Eat the local food. Don't be afraid to say yes in situations where you'd normally say no. Take the bus. Go to Galway and don't miss the Ring of Kerry. ***Make travel plans early when you get there. Travel with the right people.** Take flip flops to hostels. Stay in hostels. Drink with new people. |
