Ireland: Finding What Appeals to You. Dublin - Transformation of Social and Political Conflict Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The grading system was a little frustrating at times because the advisor grading things without emphasizing what she would deduct points for. The workload was manageable. The teaching methods could have been better - better resources could have been employed. There was a major difference in the educational system because at my home university I feel challenged and like I'm learning things I can apply later in life. At the host university I did not understand the significance of what I was learning - it was more memorization than anything which means I forgot it as soon as the test was completed.

On-site administration of your program

The support services were good but the assistant, Cladagh, was not very helpful. She was very rude to talk with and replied with snarky and unnecessary comments. The program was well designed in that it provided us with great insight about the host country. The program size was small, 10 students - there should be more so that there can be a wider range of students so that everyone feels like they belong. My expectations in the beginning were met..the middle of the semester I felt withdrawn, uneasy and a little regretful of having picked this program but at the conclusion I was very satisfied.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

the host family treated me like a guest who was overstaying her welcome. I got along very well with the kids but i felt the parents were too busy and should not host students. I did not need to buy anything to accomodate my living arrangement. The neighborhood I stayed in was extremely safe.

they did not cook well. the meals were all 10-minute cook time meals and were not satisfying. I felt hungry even after eating a full meal. I would suggest the students buy their own food and cook for themselves.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

mayo was amazing!!! i had the best time there. i also really enjoyed derry because i have never lived in a small town and it was so nice to see people who you knew at the store and whatnot. we attended the ema mtv in belfast and saw a free concert by jason derulo - front row!!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

always be aware of your surroundings. healthcare was not easily accessible. I sent in my invoice for my insurance and still have not received a response. The program coordinator was not too knowledgable about the procedure.

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

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• Dorm

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• Americans
• Host Family

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• Americans

• the places

• the grading system