Q: Initially, what made you decide to study abroad? Why did you choose your program?
A: The idea of being able to get a in-depth understanding of a different culture was a dream and being able to do it and work in a foreign government was one I couldn't pass on. Ireland was a welcoming country and by not having the time to learn another language the program worked out well and fitted into my degree
Q: What was the highlight of your study abroad experience?
A: Learning about the complexities of Irish history and being able to visit locations of historic events like where the execution of the Easter Rising leaders or visiting the Four Courts and being able to walk within the Houses of the Oireachtas.
Q: What was your greatest challenge abroad and how did you overcome it?
A: My greatest challenge in Ireland was managing my finances and to do so I would pull out large quantities of cash and manage my budget on a weekly budget.
Q: How did your coursework abroad compare to your courses at UC Merced?
A: There was very little coursework as it was mainly studying and remembering Irish history, literature and politics and society. The coursework mainly came from the Internship as our members of parliament would give us different tasks.
Q: What did you gain from your study abroad experience?
A: The main thing I learned was how impactful it is to look back on history as it truly provides a context for events which can be overlooked. And I was reminded to use my loose change more and that walking around to places isn't as difficult as it may seem if there are modes of transportation nearby.
Q: What advice do you have for students considering study abroad?
A: Don't worry too much but be prepared with a phone plan prior to arriving as being lost on the first day is a stressful endeavor.
Q: Describe a typical day for you abroad.
A: On Monday or Wednesday I would make a 20 minute walk to the DART (train station) in Dun Laoghrie and go to school depending on the time I could get a free scone and tea upon arriving at my school. Afterwards I'd learn about Irish politics,sociology, history or literature.
On Tuesdays or Thursdays I would make the same walk to the DART and go to the Oireachtas for my internship in the Irish Parliament and research Business and Enterprise, or deal with constituents.
