The Irish Arts and Culture Program

Taking any type of gap year is a massive leap of faith. But trust me when I say your fears will dissipate when you meet the good-natured and dedicated people who run this program. After three months of exploring the Emerald Isle, I must admit, Bundoran, Ireland is a second home. Our time spent across the Atlantic was filled with wonderful workshops led by local artists, trips to cities, and unreal walks and hikes through the country-side. Accommodations were extremely comfortable and making friends is easier than you can imagine. My advice is to talk to people, the locals, the bartenders hearing their stories can alone make your experience richer. I wouldn't trade my time here for anything in the world and I truly recommend it for any student.

This program was absolutely amazing. Every single workshop is well worth it! Students experience all different mediums and learn from incredible artists. The staff are incredibly supportive and help you every step of the way if you need it! The housing situation is fantastic and I learned so many life skills that I’ll use in college and beyond. The two or three day trips to cities like Dublin and Galway and smaller towns such as Dingle inspire students and encourage them to learn about the history of Ireland, as well as what is going on currently in this wonderful country. My experience here has been better than I could ever have imagined. The program co-owners Ryan and Killian are always there if needed (not as many founders are involved in their students’ passions and growths as they are). Overall, this experience has been one that I would recommend for any student that’s looking to explore their artistic side, as well as make new friends.

Irish Gap year was an incredible experience and I will never forget it. I made so many amazing memories here and life long friends. I got to explore many amazing places and see many amazing sights in Ireland and was constantly given opportunities to try new things. The workshops were all amazing and it was so fun getting to try so many different kinds of art during my time here. Throughout the program there was a great balance of adventures, art, and time spent locally. There was also a balance of support and structure with independence and free time. All of the staff and program leaders were absolutely incredible. They were so kind and helpful and supportive too. I am going to miss them and all the people of Bundoran so much. I could not recommend this program more highly. You will have an amazing time and make memories you will never forget.

The Irish Gap Year was definitely worth it. You’ll meet many people during your adventures, many of whom will become close friends. Many of the things you’ll experience will be completely new, some of it will be a little nerve wracking and some of it will come a little easier. I had a fantastic time exploring the Irish countryside and the many cities and towns. The locals are very friendly and will always give you the time for a cool conversation. Don’t be afraid to ask too experience something that isn’t on repertoire . I was able to travel a couple of hours to take a tour around an airport with a fellow gapper. Take things in stride and it’ll be a very rewarding experience. You’ll come out a new person. Take a chance on yourself and come join the Irish Gap Year.

This trip was absolutely spectacular. Although this year was the first one for the arts and culture program, you wouldn’t know it. The workshops were really well put together, ranging from drama to photography to found art. The instructors were amazing, and I felt like I really improved in both technique and content while here. Learning about the history and culture of Ireland was also fascinating, from the oppression of the workhouses to the literary developments in contemporary history.
Although the program is based in the small town of Bundoran, frequent trips to other cities and towns keeps things fresh and allows for new experiences, while still having a solid place to come back to. The program leaders are supportive and fun, and aren’t afraid to show their personalities. Also, there’s a dog.
Overall, this was an amazing experience that I don’t think I could have had elsewhere. If you’re looking for a fun, low-stress, but still productive and energetic environment, then this is the program for you.

My time in Ireland was incredible! The workshops were all engaging and the artists we worked with were all talented and kind. The Local Hands Workshops were my personal favorites because we got to work with local artists and experience more traditional arts such as painting, wood turning, weaving, wood carving, and calligraphy! Outside of the workshops, we would take a trip somewhere new every other week! We went to some beautiful and amazing places all throughout Ireland!! My favorite trip was to Dingle and Dublin.
On Irish Gap Year, all of the counselors are super supportive! The housing was good, the food was good, what more can you need! I felt that I grew a lot through this program and I wouldn’t change my experience for anything in the world!

This experience is one that I will never forget. I came to Ireland not knowing what to expect. I swear as soon as I got off the plane I could feel that the air was different. Ireland is definitely top on my list for the most beautiful places on earth. For the upcoming gappers, have your mind open. Try new things and try to meet people in Bundoran. The people in Bundoran are so interesting and with a combination of all the fun workshops, that's what made my trip. Also, the staff put together amazing trips for us. On some of the trips, I may have abused Mcdonalds too much, but that's just because I am a normal American. On the trips, I loved exploring the artifacts and sights that make Ireland so badass. We got to visit castles, breathtaking sights, meet some awesome tour guides, and learn from outstanding artists.

Irish Gap Year is an amazing program that I am very happy to have been a part of. I didn’t think I would have liked all the activities and artistic stuff but by the time the program was over I was very sad to leave because I had secretly taken a passion to everything. While on this program I have been able to do many amazing things and enjoyed meeting amazing people and working alongside them. I got to learn how to step outside of my comfort zone and try new things that I didn’t think I would enjoy. The best thing was the friends that I made on the trip and they helped me realize that it’s a lot easier when you’re part of a team that is there for eachother. But the best part of this program is the things you get to do while your with a program like IGY. I will always remember the happy times and the amazing memories and friends from my journey.