National University Ireland Past Review

By (Women's Studies/English, Providence College) for

IFSA: Galway - National University Ireland

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My study abroad experience was very worthwhile. I gained so many different friends, that I would have never met if I never studied abroad. I gained self confidence in regards to meeting new people and traveling and a new self of independence. It was a great experience.

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Spring 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The programs administration was very helpful and wanted their students to feel comfortable.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in an appt complex called Menlo Part Appartments. They were nice, but somewhat far away from town/school ( 30 minute walk) Two rooms of two people, one single. 3 Bathrooms, living room and a kitchen. <br /><br />

* Food:

The food was a bit different, and our program did not give us any meals. It was interesting to cook and feed ourselves.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Social life was extremely amazing in Galway. The Pubs were so much fun to go to, and it was a great atmosphere to let loose and have a good time.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I was sick a lot through my abroad experience. The doctors at NUI Galway were very helpful and I always felt safe.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? A lot of the time you think that once you have paid for your airfare/hostel to go on a vacation, that is all you have to pay for. You have to remember to save money for cultural activities, food, and going out!

Language

Language acquisition improvement?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you take classes with?

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  • International Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? If I were to choose anywhere in the world to Study Abroad, Galway Ireland would be my choice. The people are friendly, the social life is great, and the country is beautiful!

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

European Women's Studies

Course Department: WMS 300
Instructor: Mary Clancy
Instruction Language: English
Comments: It was a great course that went through European Women's Studies Issues.
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

Seminar: Moden Irish Literature

Course Department:
Instructor: Dr. Brown
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This was a great class. We read works by James Joyce, John McGahern and many other influential Irish writers of our time.
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

The Development Of The Castle In Medieval Europe

Course Department: 0809-AR332
Instructor: O'Connor
Instruction Language: English
Comments: Quick Easy and Interesting. Definitely a good choice for Fine Arts.
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

Studies in Modern Irish Literature

Course Department: 0809-EN388
Instructor: Patrick Lonergan
Instruction Language: English
Comments: Good books to read, two essays. Simple and Easy if you read.
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

History of Ireland

Course Department:
Instructor:
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This was the most boring class I have ever had to take in my life. I would steer away.
Credit Transfer Issues: