Best Experience Ever Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

All my lecturers were very helpful during class and willing to stay and answer all my questions after class. I had trouble in the beginning especially, because they weren't answering emails. But I learned it was better for me to ask questions in person and they helped me. It was a little difficult to adjust to the different way the courses are taught, but the teachers were especially helpful to the international students.

On-site administration of your program

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The conditions were not the most luxurious, but it was fun and convenient living in student accommodation.

Meal plans were not a thing here so you're on your own for food. There are plenty of delicious places to eat on campus, but it's quite expensive. There was a grocery store close by and all student accommodations have kitchens so it's not bad.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

This is what you make of it. I was very integrated with the Irish culture because I put myself out there and made it happen. Although some international students were put in housing with Irish people, I was with all international students. I got to know my neighbors and met Irish people through the clubs and societies I joined. Irish people are very friendly and hanging out with them is the best way to really absorb the culture. It's easy to make friends with Irish people but I know a lot of people who only hung out with people from their country, so I guess it's based on personal preference.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had a very good experience with healthcare. I got very sick with a viral infection and gingivitis when I was in Italy for spring break. When I got back to Ireland, I went to the walk-in clinic off campus (right next to my student accommodation). I asked to make an appointment and asked if they took the insurance I had. She gave me an appointment for the next day and all I had to do was go to the insurance company's website and fill in a request for an appointment and it was approved. The doctor was quick and helpful and gave me a prescription for the pharmacy which is right next to the clinic. And the insurance covered the appointment, there was no copay. I just had to pay for the medication.

Limerick has a reputation for being unsafe, but I did not feel unsafe at any time. I went to the city at night, I was in the area where nightclubs are, and I always felt fine. With any college campus, there are dangers, but as long as you're hanging with the right people you're fine. Some house parties off campus were crazy but if you don't put yourself in those situations you won't be exposed to it.

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

It depends on what you're doing. If you go out drinking a lot your money will fly away. If you eat out a lot, you'll be broke fast. I suggest cooking at home and drinking at home, too. It's okay to indulge but most of my money went towards traveling. I can't put a number on how much I spent per week because I wasn't doing the same things every week. But a typical school week I'd say maybe $150 or less and I spent a lot of money on a lot of things I didn't need to. My spending habits were a little crazy here (you only study abroad once) so I would prepare to spend more than you need to. Think about the souvenirs you'll want to buy, the cost of transportation if you plan on traveling, and make sure you have enough to treat yourself to a pint or two.

Select all that apply

• Dorm

Select all that apply

• International Students

Select all that apply

• Local Students
• International Students

• the international integration
• the classes and lecturers' helpfulness
• the irish culture

• make sure all internationals live with at least one irish person in accommodation
• more travel advice during orientation
• more forced mingling with orientation

The Outright Urbanite