Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Dublin: Memories That Will Last For A Lifetime! Past Review

By (Business Marketing, American College Dublin) - abroad from 09/18/2011 to 12/14/2011 with

American College Dublin: Irish Language & Culture Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how other countries live. I met my Irish family members, I saw where my ancestors are from, and I gained an appreciation for travel. This abroad experience was not about the classes but about the culture. I truly gained more than anyone could ever imagine. Ireland will always remind me of the best memories. The three months I spent there changed my life forever and truly made me a better person. I am thankful everyday I was given the opportunity to explore another part of the world.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The American College Dublin administration was accommodating and helpful. They were a very supportive group that made me feel comfortable even though I was in a foreign country.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The provided housing was in a perfect location of Dublin. Everything was within walking distance and you are only a block away from Grafton Street.

* Food:

The food was decent. Ireland is not known for many dishes but the grocery stores carried a large variety of options.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Everyone in Ireland is welcoming. I never felt uncomfortable or out of place. The school helped the students integrate into the Irish culture through a Irish Cultural Course and several field trips throughout the semester.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I went to the doctor while I was abroad in Dublin. The program staff was very helpful and I had no issue finding the location. Dublin is a very safe city and there are no specific health issues that needed attention.

* Safety:

Dublin is extremely safe. I walked to school alone everyday and I never felt nervous. If you want to experience a great city, that is also safe, then I recommend Dublin.

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)

Budgeting was not always easy. However, being in a new city I spent more because it was worth the experience.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I recommend starting your time there with a budget. I didn't really spend wisely all the time and I could have saved more money if I had a plan.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Exchange

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • People
  • New experiences
  • Location
* What could be improved?
  • More group trips
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew how quickly the time goes by. Don't pass by opportunities.

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.