Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Writing in Ireland Past Review

By (University of New Orleans) - abroad from 06/15/2015 to 07/15/2015 with

University of New Orleans: The Writing Workshops in Cork, Ireland

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It helped me see the world in a broader, more global context and helped me think about how my work would be received by non-Americans.

Review Photos

University of New Orleans: The Writing Workshops in Cork, Ireland Photo University of New Orleans: The Writing Workshops in Cork, Ireland Photo University of New Orleans: The Writing Workshops in Cork, 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.

I went on this program in 2015 after researching several of UNO's summer study abroad programs and selected the Cork, Ireland program as it had the most course offerings that were applicable to my majors-- English and Film & Theatre. A month was the right amount of time in Ireland. By the end of the trip I not only felt familiar with Cork itself but I was able to create bonds with my classmates that I may have not formed in a shorter time frame. As an older, nontraditional student, I appreciated the diversity in the student's and, in general, this program attracts more mature students, regardless of age. Academically, I felt like I was getting the same quality education as if I was studying during a regular semester. I also appreciated the mix of free time and scheduled activities, which allowed plenty of time to socialize with students and professors alike as well as experience the country on my own. I highly recommend this program, especially for students searching for an intimate writing workshop experience. I gained so much from writing in a different country surrounded by writers from different schools, ages, and backgrounds. That, to me, was invaluable.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Even though we took UNO courses we stayed at The University of College Cork during our time in Ireland. The staff was very accommodating and treated us like one of their own.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I appreciated having my own bedroom and bath. It was also nice having a fully equipped kitchen. This helped me save money since I was able to cook some of my meals "at home."

* Food:

I was pleasantly surprised by the food options in the UCC cafeteria. The quality was better than other college campuses and we received a 10 euro voucher for lunch, which was more than enough to cover my lunch and snacks for the rest of the day.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The people of Ireland are exceedingly polite and friendly and eager to share their culture with travelers.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Unfortunately I did need medical assistance. I was able to be admitted into the hospital with no problem and the study abroad insurance provided through UNO was top notch.

* Safety:

Cork is a very safe city. I felt comfortable there the entire time.

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

I would go on this program again since the faculty rotates and there is a chance to study with different professors each time, which is helpful in gaining new perspectives on your writing in the workshop experience.

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)

This will vary student-to-student, but I budgeted in some shopping money and in-country travel expenses. While I was there I witnessed a wide range of student spending, so it just depends on the individual.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100-$200, depending on how much I cooked in the apartment.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Definitely take advantage of cooking meals in your room.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • affordability
  • length of time
  • mix of academic and leisure activities
* What could be improved?
  • nothing I can think of!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had done a little bit more research into places I could travel to points of interest to visit during my free time.

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.