Why did you decide to study abroad with API?
Aaron: I chose to study in Dublin, Ireland for romantic reasons: I adore the Irish culture and sensibilities and wanted to immerse myself in them. I picked API because it had the most appealing as far as exciting extracurricular activities. Among the options, it was also the most proactive about orienting new students to Irish life, study, and routine.
What made this study abroad experience unique and special?
Aaron: API delivered far beyond what it promised. The trips outside Dublin were wonderful and the activities within the city were enormously informative and fun. The visit to Gallagher’s Boxty House was a particular favorite. All the little memories made the semester so special: walking around the city, sharing drinks with Irish students after feisty tutorial discussions, eating lunch outside the TCD arts building, dancing at Coppers until 5am. Great memories form on their own; it just takes an openness to new experiences.
How has this study abroad experience impacted you?
Aaron: While studying in Dublin didn’t necessarily have a big impact academically or professionally beyond helping achieve the necessary credits (I took an Economics course and two of each in Political Science and Sociology), it did have some impact in smaller ways. For example, an interviewer for an internship had also studied in Ireland, and it immediately established a bond that eased the anxiety of the interview. The position was later offered!I wouldn’t trade my experience in Dublin for anything in the world and encourage those considering a semester-abroad to take the leap. Without question, it’s worth it.