Name: Rachel Shinsky
Major: Physician Assistant Studies
Program: American Institute for Foreign Study
Traveled Abroad Before: Yes

Q: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your study abroad experience?
A: I think of the absolutely breathtaking beauty of the country. It is truly beautiful and so rich with history. I think of the friendly people and all of the fun I had exploring the country and learning about its history and language in class.

Q: Why did you choose this destination?
A: I choose Ireland because I am Irish myself and wanted to explore more of its history. I also wanted to go to an English speaking country so I didn't have to deal with a language barrier.

Q: What are some things that surprised you about the campus, the classes, the culture, customs or traditions?
A: I was surprised that even though I went somewhere English speaking, I still had a very difficult time understanding some of the Irish. I was also surprised by the classes and how little assignments there were. I had one test and one paper in all of my classes that made up my entire grade. I was also surprised by the way restaurants were, the service was very slow. The Irish take time to enjoy their meals and socialize. The pace is slower there.

Q: What are some things you would like students to know about studying abroad in this destination or the program provider you studied with?
A: AIFS is a great provider to use. I found it affordable, it included great excursions a meal plan and an adviser to meet with weekly. My adviser was the most helpful and sweet person ever. She was there with advice on trip planning, homesickness and things to do on the weekends. Limerick, Ireland is such an old city with so much history. I liked it better then Dublin and Cork because it was less industrialized and felt more like Ireland where the bigger cities feel like home.

Q: What advice would you offer?
A: Do not waste too much time being homesick or counting down the days until you go home. It was the best experience of my life and every time I think about Ireland I only think positive thought. Travel as much as you can to other countries, because it is so cheap, but also take time to explore as much of Ireland as you can. There is so much to see and experience that you should never waste a day sitting inside.

Q: What was your academic goal while studying abroad?
A: To try and learn as much about the history and culture of Ireland as I could. I wanted to submerge myself into the culture both in the class room and out in the world.

Question? Email Rachel!

Name: Libby DeMull
Major: Communications
Program: CEA Global Education - Dublin
Traveled Abroad Before: Yes

Q: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your study abroad experience?
A: I think of exploring the city Dublin, and the sun not setting until 11pm. Also, I think of the lasting friendships I made - my roommates, they other students on the trip, the teachers at CEA, etc.

Q: Why did you choose this destination?
A: I chose my destination because of the idyllic image that Ireland brings to mind, the fact that they spoke English and a nagging urge to visit Dublin.

Q: What are some things that surprised you about the campus, the classes, the culture, customs or traditions?
A: I was very surprised that Ireland (and Dublin specifically) was so more modern than I expected it to be. I was also surprised to find out that the younger generation is now speaking about against what they view as a drinking problem in the country.

Q: What are some things you would like students to know about studying abroad in this destination or the program provider you studied with?
A: I loved the CEA program in Dublin, the teachers and the administrators were incredibly accommodating, always making sure we had somewhere to go, something to see - never stuck in our rooms. Dublin did have a higher cost of living than I was expecting, so make sure you bring more money than you think you need!

Q: What advice would you offer?
A: I would say if you have the opportunity to study abroad, do not hesitate and DO IT! It will be one of the greatest experiences of your life. Being able to spend that much time immersed in a different culture than the one you are used to is so valuable. You're not just visiting the place, you are living in it.

Q: What was your academic goal while studying abroad?
A: My academic goal was to complete the majority of my theme, and to get good grades as well. I complete that goal!

Question? Email Libby!