What inspired you to create Institute of Study Abroad Ireland?
A love of Irish culture, and the connections between Ireland and the USA. I created the organization, so that students would find a safe and friendly place in Ireland to learn about the shared narratives of the Irish and many other peoples around the world.
Niamh with some 2018 Global Scholars
Describe a typical day at work.
Teaching classes, guiding field trips, taking care of students.I create the syllabus for our programs, and make sure the programs are academically and educationally robust, but accessible for all our students.
Why do you do what you do?
I am passionate about the importance of study abroad for students of all ages, and I believe that Ireland is a great first destination for students who have yet to try it.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Teaching and working with students. I love introducing students to the amazing and multi-faceted aspects of Irish culture and history, and then encouraging them to explore the comparative aspects of this journey.
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
I am a qualified B.Ed, MA in American Studies and Ph.D. in history and culture. All of my experience learning and teaching is valuable in this role.
With faculty leader out and about
What makes your organization special?
We are accessible and affordable for students, we deliver an authentic and educational experience, rooted in the Irish culture, located in the most beautiful part of Ireland.
Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?
Our first priority is always student welfare. We have been in business since 1996, and we have never had a single complaint from a parent or a student. Every single participant in every program has had a life-changing experience.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
We hope that they will become more informed, more able to think critically about what is important and valuable in their lives, their communities and the wider world. We want them to have a broader understanding of how history and culture can teach us about our shared narratives and common ground as global citizens.
If you could participate in an Institute of Study Abroad Ireland program, where would you go and what would you do?
All our programs are based in Donegal, Ireland, I would not be anywhere else! If I was a teenager, I would want to do our Global Scholars program, it is three fantastic weeks, and you get three college credits!
What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?
We are always asked if it's possible to go to school or college in Ireland, or how can you get a job in Ireland! We are often asked why there are so many people of Irish descent in the USA. It is possible to go to school in Ireland, and we explain the history of Irish emigration — the Famine, and the opportunities offered by the USA when the Irish had nowhere else to go.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Choose a program that will enhance your education, make sure it is structured and safe, and seek out testimonials from other participants and parents before you sign up!
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel happens when you engage fully with the culture of the country you are visiting, and have experiences that are authentic and informative.
What issues do you see in the world of international education that don’t line up with your values and expectations for mutually beneficial and educational relationships between providers or programs and the communities in which they are located within?
International education programs have to have an educational syllabus that delivers an authentic and accessible experience. There must be measurable and verifiable educational experiences planned and executed by competent professional educators.
At Drew University for Global Scholars reunion
What does ethical global engagement mean to you?
Providers who deliver educational experiences overseas must make sure that the visit of students makes a positive and environmentally friendly contribution to the community.
What hopes do you have for the future of international education?
I hope that study abroad becomes more accessible to low-income, minority, and disadvantaged students. I hope that it becomes the norm for high schools and colleges to have inclusive and accessible study abroad programs as part of the school curriculum.
What qualities in program and host community relations are important to you and your organization?
We value sincerity in the pursuit of an authentic and educational study abroad experience. We value authenticity, generosity, and kindness. Professionalism is essential in the delivery of study programs.