Cork, Ireland: would do it again in an instant! Past Review
By Heather D (Psychology, Wagner College) for
Arcadia: Cork - University College Cork
Five years later, I'm still referencing experiences I had while studying abroad. If you're on the fence- go, go, go!
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. |
I attended a small liberal arts school in the states, and UCC was a large university- the lectures alone were a big change for me. I found it to be very similar to what I would have expected from a large American university. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I entered the study abroad program based on the idea that I wanted to experience something new and different, so my expectations were easily met. Many of the courses I took were essay driven, something that American students are extremely accustomed to- so it was an easy transition. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
My program arranged for me to be housed with another student I knew prior to traveling which was wonderful. We did spend a weekend with a host family when we first arrived in the country- it was a great experience, but I'm glad that the majority of my abroad experience was spent living in an apartment. |
| * Food: |
The food culture was very Americanized- so it wasn't too much of a shock. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
We were Ireland for St. Patrick's day which was pretty incredible, the city's rugby team made it into the finals and won- it was great to see an entire city celebrating. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
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| 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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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | If you're not looking for a foreign language component- Ireland is ideal. There's so much to do, and it's to acclimate. You're also so close to Europe travel is very easy! |
