Program Reviews

This program was such an amazing experience. I learned so much here not only about artistic practices but also about myself. The art tutors were all super great and could help you whether you were a new artist or had practiced for years. Not only is the art side amazing but there are so many trips and cultural experiences while your over here. We got to travel all over the country and see so many amazing cities. The staff are all so friendly and are willing to help with any problems you may be having. This program really gives you a lot of freedom to explore on your own. Sundays gave us time to explore Bundoran, or nearby towns on our own but also have a relaxing recharging day if you need it. Also its so cool to see everyones work together in the final expo, you feel so accomplished after. This is a truly amazing program and I would strongly recommend.

Made great friends and memories and explored Ireland

My god was it fun. The friends you'll make, the things you'll see, the experiences you'll have, all make this program so very worth it. You won't find another program that is this fun and relaxing, while still fast paced and stimulating. You will love the tutors and faculty, especially Ken and Phil (they're so awesome). The houses are nice enough, can't really complain. You will have to get used to shitty wifi on this trip, it's inescapable. The sub trips (both overnight and day trips) are enjoyable, although I wish we went to Donegal town one more time. Honestly though, all the good parts to this experience far outweigh the bad. I can't say it enough, you should come.

The Arts and Culture program was great to broaden my understanding of art and allow me to explore new mediums. I feel that at least for my group we would’ve liked to have some more adventure stuff and have more of a balance. Also at times the trips we went on weren’t spread out enough. They were all super fun just sometimes too much at once. I think this program has helped me learn how to live on my own and coexist with other kids which is helpful for the future. This program has given me some lifelong friends and some great memories to take with me now that the program has ended!

Irish gap year was really good for meeting new friends and clearing my head. I met a lot of really great people and it was nice experiencing life so far away from my hometown. If you’ve had a rough high school experience or are just looking to get away and have a little fun I highly recommend Irish Gap year. Everything except for the food was a 10/10. They kind of cycle the same few meals over and over again which wasn’t the best. Other than that I have absolutely loved this program, the people who run it, and the new friends I’ve made.

Irish gal year brought so much adventure and peace in my life all at once. A huge majority of my time was spent outside, in the ocean, hiking, and anything out doors. I spent most of my time in such a peaceful environment but learning exploring and pressing my limits. I gained life long connections not only with my new friends but also with the amazing leaders. Irish gap year was just what I needed to move forward in my next adventures. This was the best experience I could imagine and I would recommend this company to anyone needing space to grow before there next adventure.

The IGY was the adventure and leadership fall program was amazing. What’s awesome about it is not just a structured itinerary that has activities like cliff jumping, hiking, traveling to cities, shopping, exploring monuments and ruins, and going to the pubs with your friends, but also the freedom you have to make your own choices. The counselors are there to help you and lead you on trips but also treat you like adults. The student led trip at the end where we got a budget and were able to create our own trip was amazing. We went to cork and stayed at a hostel where I met people of many different cultures and had a spontaneous arm wrestling tournament at 1 in the morning with all the foreigners in a common room.

Irish Gap Year provided me some of the most best opportunities of my life. I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this program outside of the provided itinerary list, and I think that’s part of why it’s so great. You’ll be doing amazing hiking, traveling, and workshops, but the rest of your time here is left up to you and your peers to decide what you will do. Irish Gap Year offers students the chance to not only immerse in Irish culture and adventure through nature, but also the freedom to make your own choices. Some things you can expect to do on this program would be cliff jumping, surfing, touring some of Ireland’s most famous cities, lots of hiking, and leadership workshops. For 3 months you will be living with other students from various different places and backgrounds which offers students the chance to grow and learn about each other on a deep level. If you are a young adult looking for a program that offers you activity filled weeks, the chance to experience lots of personal growth, and to make meaningful connections with peers, this is the program for you.

My exsperiance with Irish Gap Year is one that I will never forget. We are not just a cohort, we are a family. I have made life long friends that i would do anything for and I know they would do anything for me. Irish Gap Year pushs you mentally and physically while giving you the preparation and support you need. The volunteering opportunities are meaningful and rewarding. Working with Liquid Therapy was a highlight of my time here. Teaching children with additional needs to surf while creating a relationship with them and their families was refreshing. Overall, Irish Gap Year has far exceeded my expectations. Choosing Irish Gap Year was the best decision I have ever made.

This program has truly been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I have met some of the greatest people, had incredible new experiences, and learned so much about myself. The workshops were so beneficial and it is so fun to create bonds with the tutors while learning more about things you are interested in. Going to new places and exploring Ireland with so much freedom also makes the trip so much fun. There is so much support from the staff and all your peers that really enrich your experience. You will not regret choosing Irish gap year for your next adventure.