I can't imagine going anywhere else.

Galway is incredible. The downtown area is so much fun, lots of clubs and pubs for the nighttime and lots of shopping and pretty sights to see during the daytime. The academics weren't even remotely challenging for me, but then again that might have had to do with the program I was in (Archaeology). The thing that was strange about the academics was the setup: no constant quizzes or exams or even homework, just one final exam or final paper - that was the only grade! Ultimately it made finals a little scary, but it all worked out in the end.

The living arrangements (Menlo) aren't super special, the rooms get colddd in the winter and hot water is sometimes hard to come by. BUT the people in Menlo are fantastic. You get to live with Irish students in an apartment style set up, which is a great way to meet people, and everyone in Menlo is really friendly and open - you will meet a ton of people there.

The API program itself is fantastic. The program directors are so helpful, so genuine and so welcoming, and you know they're always there whenever you need them. It's great to have them on your side. And you really get your money's worth with the program. Our excursions were wonderful, especially the weekend in London! We also got to take a cooking class and go to a rugby match! They really went above and beyond for us, and I am so so happy I went with API over any others (who ultimately were more expensive, and gave you less! I know because I met several people from other programs in Menlo and at school). The people in my program really became my family over there, and we still talk all the time.

The only issue I remember having is with the walk to school from Menlo. It's about 20-25 minutes (depending on how fast you walk). It's a really nice enjoyable walk when the weather's nice, but when it's raining and cold, or there is snow on the ground....it just makes working up the motivation to actually go to class a little more difficult. I took several walks in the pouring down rain, sitting in my classes completely soaked, because although I had a rain jacket and an umbrella, the umbrella can't do a whole lot when it's windy. Honestly though, that all just became another memory to laugh about. I would not trade any part of my experience, and I am so, so glad that I chose NUI Galway for my study abroad.