Why did you pick this program?
I knew I wanted to go to Dublin, and from there it was pretty simple. ISA was one of the providers that led programs with my school, and when I ran through University options, living on campus vs. off campus, price, and program duration, my program came out and was perfect for me.
What do you tell your friends who are thinking about going abroad?
In the wise words of Shia Labeouf...just do it! It's easy to only think about the obstacles at first, and use them as an excuse. But studying abroad is one of the most impactful things you can ever do for yourself. It makes you more intuitive, aware, experienced, and is just a once in a lifetime experience you will never get again. I've met plenty of people who wish they studied abroad, but never one who did it and regretted going.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Make the most of every day. Treat every day like its special, and do something to make it memorable- that's how you'll truly maximize your experience.
What's your favorite story to tell about your time abroad?
Every Friday, my friend Holly and I didn't have class and instead had "Adventure Club Fridays", where we would go out and explore outside of Dublin. We went everywhere- to places on the Dublin coast, like Howth, Bray, Killiney and Malahide, or to other parts of Ireland, like Waterford. Towards the end, we got really adventurous and went to Rome for the weekend! Adventure Club Fridays were so fun because I was making these amazing memories with a great friend and doing things I may not have done otherwise. We went beyond our comfort zone and really got to see our potential as travelers and people. We did so much and have such amazing memories from these days!
What was the biggest culture shock experience?
When you go out, whether it be for dinner, to a pub, or just anywhere, people in Ireland (and all of Europe) get much more dressed up than the States. People don't where leggings and sweaters- they get dressed up in dresses and heels, and full make-up. It took a few times of feeling very under dressed to get the hang of it!