The Greatest Four Months of My Life in the Best City!

I really cannot express enough how amazing it was to study abroad in Galway, Ireland. Everything about this location is beautiful and worthwhile, and out of all the other countries I visited while abroad (The Netherlands, England, Poland and Spain), I can truly say that this is the best spot for study abroad students––especially through CEA, which was a super helpful, comforting and beneficial program for me to go through. Even if you aren't sure where to go, you will seriously not regret your decision to choose Galway. Thomas is the program director for CEA, and he actually lives in Galway. Also, he really does know his stuff and is quite the history buff on Ireland. By choosing to go through CEA, I not only guaranteed that someone would be there to look out for me, but I also got to explore different areas of Ireland with most expenses already paid at the time of travel. (We only had to pay a few times for our meals, but this was not extremely bothersome or anything. I didn't even really care much about this factor once we reached our destinations and got to explore this insanely beautiful country.) Additionally, the people in Ireland are really fun, down-to-earth and friendly. Galway is the perfect college town, and honestly the best area to live in Ireland (from what I've heard and seen from other people, not just myself!). Whenever I was on a flight from a different country to go back to Ireland, I didn't feel any sort of discomfort or sadness, because it always felt like I was just returning to my newfound homeland. Ireland became my life, and I cannot wait to return someday.

I can't believe it has almost been an entire month since I flew back home to the states. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything else. I was also placed in housing that introduced me to some people who I really believe will be my friends for life (both American and Irish!). I cannot thank CEA enough for this experience, nor the people of Ireland for being so warm and welcoming. I would highly recommend this program to all––you will seriously have the time of your life... guaranteed. :)