The Irish Arts and Culture Program

I had a great time at IGY! Despite some unfortunate let downs due to Covid, It was an overall amazing experience. I made many new friendships, saw some beautiful places, tried new things, and learned a lot about myself along the way. The staff was fantastic; they were friendly and supportive and truly made the experience what it was. The tutors who taught our art classes were super talented and I think I improved my art skills greatly, especially in the mediums I was unfamiliar with. My time at IGY will stick with me forever and I will look back on it with fondness.

Living in Ireland for the past few months has been so much fun despite COVID restrictions. The arts program focused on workshops with local artists, and we all tried every medium before choosing several to focus on for the final exhibition. I especially loved painting with Lani and charcoal with Michael, and made some pieces I’m really proud of! This program is for people of any art level; there's plenty of opportunity to challenge yourself and have fun no matter your experience. If drawing and painting aren’t your thing, there’s also leather working, jewelery-making, or creative writing.
Some other highlights of the trip were beautiful hikes, (once we explored an abandoned mine shaft!!) dips in the ocean, surfing, making our own short films, and just having time to hang out together at home. I made so many lasting memories & friendships with the people in my group, and I appreciated that IGY gave us the freedom to manage our own house. I recommend this program for anyone looking to stretch their wings, make art, explore Ireland, and learn a bit about yourself along the way.

My experience with Irish Gap Year was so much more than I ever could have expected. I felt respected as an adult in every instance, which made a perfect bridge between high school and college. The staff was personable and welcoming, making me feel comfortable to share my needs and issues no matter what while still maintaining a friendly relationship that allowed us to have a bit of, as the Irish would say, craic.

This was my first experience abroad and never once did I feel isolated or unbearably homesick. The environment that was fostered both by my peers and staff was second to none.

The activities got me into a routine that I never would have been able to develop or expect of myself before, and I left a changed, more mature person.

Irish Gap Year gives students a lot of individual freedom to grow as a person and as an artist in their art program. It is a great way to experience life while still having a safety net. There are so many opportunities to meet new people and create bonds that can last long past the program's end. There are so many skills learned both from the art tutors and each other. The staff is also wonderful and makes sure we are safe and happy. It is one of the most valuable experiences I have had in my life.

I had an incredible time with Irish Gap Year. I was able to meet amazing people who I intend to have life long friendships with and also had the opportunity to get to know myself better as well. With wonderful art instructors I was taught how to make art I felt truly proud of and not only learned helpful techniques but got the chance to explore my own artistic process. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone who is passionate about art and life itself, the opportunities with IGY are nearly endless!

I had an amazing time on this trip! Even though a lot of it was changed because of covid, the trip was still a very fun and enriching experience. The program leaders at IGY are super friendly and supportive, and I made lifelong friendships with everyone in my group. There were lots of chances to go surfing and spend time outside, and I was also able to join the adventure and leadership group a couple times when I wanted to go on longer hikes. We did some great workshops, and the tutors who taught them were friendly and very talented. I grew a lot from this trip and had a lot of fun.

My experience here was so beyond incredible. I’ve made so many incredible friends here’s a learned so much about Ireland and the culture. I seriously enjoyed every single day of being in Ireland.
I’m so so sad to leave. Like this has honestly been the highlight of my life so far; doing this program. There was never a dull moment with the group, we all became so incredibly close so quickly. The independence that you are given on this trip really allowed to me find myself in ways I never have before. This program has changed my life. I’m so thankful for it

I had a wonderful experience that will prepare me for the next chapter of my life. I made many hopefully lifelong friends. I was glad to have done this program. I would like to thank all of the staff of Irish gap year. Including, but not limited to, Kate, Sarah, Killian, and Ryan. I would also like to thank all of my instructors including, Paschal, Lani, Aideen, Ken, Caroline, Maura, Rossa, and others. I would like to thank all those people for really making my gap year complete. I more so was happy to spend time with my fellow gappers.