Lasting Memories Past Review
By A student (University of New Mexico) - abroad from 07/01/2016 to 07/16/2016 with
Ireland Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs
I gained a greater appreciation for different government systems and how a community can come together.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | None |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Everyone at Mary Immaculate was amazing! Holly went above and beyond and made everyday a new experience. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The housing was private and reasonable. |
| * Food: |
Most of the food that was provided was accommodating, but mostly food was purchased on your own for dinners. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Limerick was a very inclusive area and was easy to talk to the locals. Having the opportunity to interact with the service-learning projects was a plus! I enjoyed getting to know those that we worked with. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Limerick was very safe and had no issues walking to and from the housing, even on later nights. The housing was quite safe and required keys to access and a front reception for guests to check in. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
This was an amazing experience and I am glad to meet everyone in Limerick and surrounding areas, as well as, those who came with the program. It was one of the best experiences I have had!. |
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) |
it's manageable if you buy groceries and make food at the housing. If you go out a lot, it will rack up the charges. |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | 100 |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | definitely buy groceries and make a few meals. It's tempting to go out every night, but it adds up very easily. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
There are many opportunities to learn Gaelic, but somewhat difficult to remember. |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Beginner |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? | 0 |
| Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? | learn a few key phrases and use them at least a few times a day. |
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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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | The weather fluctuation to properly plan for shoes and weather gear. |
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 NetworkerAn active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume. |
