Alumni Interview with Emily Hammett

What inspired you to go abroad?

My aunt has worked in international education for my entire life. She was the one who encouraged me to consider study abroad during college, mostly with her own stories and anecdotes of being abroad.

Why did you choose IES Dublin Writer’s Program?

I chose IES Dublin Writer's Program because of its focus on writing; that was tricky to find in other study abroad programs. I also wanted to go to Ireland!

What was your favorite part about Dublin?

Dublin is one of the most walkable cities I've ever been to. I loved how close it was to the sea and the accessibility of the public transportation when I couldn't walk to my desired destination.

What made your experience abroad unique?

I took a lot of photos while I was traveling, especially of a small toy hedgehog in front of major monuments and places I encountered. It started as a photo project while I was abroad, and it really took off. About a month into it I created a public instagram for him, and I still add a few photos a week, even if his adventures aren't quite as exotic as they used to be. You can follow him on Instagram at @vonnegut_hedgehog It was certainly a unique way of capturing my experience abroad.

How did local staff support you throughout your program?

The IES Abroad Dublin Staff were stellar. They supported us by running great courses and providing help whenever we needed it. One instructor in particular, Stephen, loved to give travel advice. Everyone seemed equally invested in our growth as individuals on the program as they were in our growth in our studies.

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?

I wish I would have taken one of the Anthropology courses that was offered. The class took weekly walks throughout Dublin, and I feel I would have appreciated parts of the city more than I did just by traversing through them.

Describe a typical day in the life of your program.

I would say there was no typical day; everyday was either a new literal or emotional endeavor. But most days I would either be in class or at my volunteer placement (as part of my sociology course). Nearly everyday I took a walk, especially on those rare (or not soooo rare), glorious sunny days. If I wanted to treat myself I would get coffee or pint at the pub with friends, maybe once or twice a week. A lot of time was spent researching traveling-logistics for traveling in Ireland on the weekends or for a two-week trip I took with my friend after my program ended.

What did you enjoy doing in your free time?

I enjoyed writing about my experience, hiking, and going to museums, festivals, and flea markets with the friend I made.

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?

My accommodation was one of the nicest places I've ever lived as a student; it was an apartment I shared with three other students. Essentially two double rooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, a living room, and a balcony. The laundry machine was in the apartment. That was all great, but I liked how close it was to the IES Abroad center the most; just a 10 minute walk.

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?

Every participant should know that this is a program where you are living and working with Americans. You have to go the extra mile to meet Irish students.

What was the hardest part about studying abroad?

Setting a budget was difficult, mostly because I wasn't totally clear about how much I would spend. With some time I figured out how to keep track of spending and prioritizing my needs.

What surprised you most about Dublin?

I was surprised about how quickly businesses popped up during my time in Dublin. Like any city, it's constantly in fluctuation. It was cool to experience that.

What is one thing you wish you would have known before studying abroad in Ireland?

I wish I would have known more about Irish history. I learned a lot while I was there, but knowing more would have been helpful in the beginning.

If you could study abroad again, where would you go?

I would go to Cape Town, South Africa.

What do you feel the biggest benefit of studying abroad is?

I would say the biggest, and perhaps most cliche, is learning about a foreign culture. But there's something to be said about witnessing your country's impact on the world from a foreign country. Learning about how Americans are seen in foreign countries is a beneficial lesson.

Do you have any packing tips for individuals headed to Dublin?

Bring a loyal pair of boots that can handle rain, but not rain boots like Hunters. And bring a good warm scarf for winter!

Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?

My time abroad informed me on what I want to do with my career. It impacted how I think about budgeting time (and money). Time mostly.

Would you recommend IES Abroad to others? Why?

Yes-- IES was very supportive, especially when it came to consortium agreements and finances. They were very supportive in Ireland, too.