Reflections on My Semester at NUI Galway Past Review
By Phoebe H (Environmental Studies., Wellesley College) for
University of Galway: Direct Enrollment & Exchange
It was somewhat worthwhile- I learned a lot about myself and pushed my comfort zone. If I could do it again, I would choose to go abroad with a small program or for a shorter period (perhaps summer or winter session).
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 2 weeks - 1 month |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Overall, the academics were very easy. It was very easy to skip class with no consequences. All classes are lecture-based with generally large class sizes. There is rarely any work or deadlines during the semester, with the entire grade based on a cumulative final examination. Professors relied on powerpoint presentations and often delivered cold lectures that cultivated a disinterested classroom environment. I did have some great experiences with certain professors in whose classes I participated actively, though I realize those are a rare case in the general context of the University. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Did not participate in a program. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I found my housing (Dunaras Village) through a resources page on the University website. The apartment complex was targeted for University students and came fully furnished. It was within reasonable walking access of the school and city center and included 24/7 security, a central office and laundry access. It was in a fairly safe neighborhood and once I settled in I felt comfortable walking alone in the dark. I needed to buy my own sheets but pillows and duvet were provided. The kitchen was fully furnished and TV was included. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Galway is a very safe city, there are public busses that run regularly until 11pm and very affordable taxi services late into the night. Though, it is often not too dangerous to walk in the dark. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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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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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | ~150 euro a week not including housing fees |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | The euro exchange rate can get expensive, be sure to have a few thousand extra dollars in your account just in case. Drinks are expensive as well as eating out. It is easy to live on a small budget if you are conscious of your spending and cook for yourself. It is useful to track your spending over time to assure that you are staying on budget. |
Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
Direct Enrollment/Exchange
| * Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? | Direct Enrollment |
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 do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | This program is best suited for a student looking for a more relaxed semester in Ireland. Best for students interested in party/drinking culture and/or Irish culture. |
