IFSA Trinity College Dublin Partnership

My main goal for my study abroad experience was to immerse myself in a new culture in whatever way I could. Attending Trinity College with IFSA gave me the best of both worlds because I was able to romp around a new city, while feeling safe and secure. Heather, our main IFSA contact in Dublin, was very responsive and happily answered questions on many topics spanning from location questions to pub recommendations. Dublin was a small enough city that I was able to get around by myself after the first week, but the excitement and beauty of the city never got old. The Irish locals were so kind and easy to talk to, making my transition to living in a new city easy. I expected large classes at Trinity College but my classes were actually smaller than my home classes.The teachers were very engaged with the students, and eager to help in whatever way they could. The registration process was stressful, but IFSA staff was there to help us along every step of the way. The living situation was absolutely incredible, as we each had a single in a suite with our own bathroom. The common areas in the living situation were conducive to meeting students on other programs, from both Ireland and other countries. The IFSA organized excursion to Belfast was also one of the highlights of my trip. We spent just enough time sight-seeing, and were given free time to explore the city on our own. The Black Taxi Tour was so informative and engaging and I remember calling my family the day after, excitedly telling them everything I had learned. Some of my favorite nights were visiting random pubs and talking to locals for hours on end. Unfortunately, I never learned to like Guinness but maybe next time I visit I'll give it another go. All in all, I could not imagine a better city to travel to or a better provider to travel with.

IFSA Butler Study Abroad was the perfect program for me. Not only do they have many different countries available for studying abroad, but they offer different experiences at each. I chose to study abroad directly with a university, Trinity College Dublin. Not only did I fall in love with Dublin, but IFSA set me up perfectly to have the best study abroad experience. With their constant support and preparation available leading up to the months before departure, my pre-departure anxieties were definitely lessened. IFSA had multiple excursions planned for us that are included in the program fee. We travelled around Ireland during a couple of weekend trips to places that I wouldn't have been able to go otherwise. My favorite part of studying abroad with IFSA, though, was their constant support when I needed it. They weren't overbearing with required events and activities, but when I was feeling really homesick I had a friendly face to talk to whenever I needed to. When I experienced mental health issues, I was able to use the insurance arranged through IFSA to see a therapist free of charge. IFSA's commitment to its students is incredible, and it really feels like a small family when you're abroad. I believe IFSA was a driving force that made my study abroad experience so wonderful, and I wouldn't change it for the world!

Studying abroad with IFSA was one of the best decisions. They made logistics, travel, excursions, academics, and social life feel manageable through attentive and flexible support. They also managed to allow for complete independence. Through quick communication and a commitment to safety, I always felt comfortable. Travel around the country and outside of it was incredibly manageable, Dublin had so much to offer and was not overwhelming at all (even for someone from rural Maine!) IFSA provides opportunities for scholarship, and helps to make abroad accessible for students of all backgrounds. They’re excursions are included, and are a great opportunity to socialize, travel, and gain some cultural context and immersion. I cannot recommend abroad with IFSA enough. If you’re an adventurous student, eager to explore the world and yourself, Go abroad with IFSA!

Before studying abroad, I had never fully lived on my own, as at Franklin & Marshall College, I lived in an on-campus dorm, and had a meal plan; my campus was also rather small, around 2300 students, and located in the small city of Lancaster, PA. Moving to Dublin, I was definitely nervous about the transition to city-life, and being able to take care of myself on my own. With the help of the IFSA-Butler Dublin staff, I was able to create a budget to plan for my abroad experience, learn lots of travel tips and tricks, and also how to use technology to help me adjust to my new environment. Upon reflection, I really believe that my study abroad experience has turned me into a more independent, confident individual. Not only did I live in an apartment, and cook for myself on a daily basis, but I became confident enough in my navigation abilities to travel to some cities and countries on my own, even when I did not speak the language! Professionally, my experience with budgeting while away has led me to be chosen as the Vice President of Finance at my sorority. Both these personal and professional skills definitely have made me feel more prepared for post-graduate life, which I am approaching in just one short year!

I went to Trinity College Dublin and loved every second of my experience. I lived in the heart of Dublin, fully immersed in Irish culture. Going to Trinity College Dublin was a unique experience as the school holds such honor and historical importance in the world. It felt as if I was a tourist at my own school. However, as time went on, I became more and more comfortable at Trinity and within the city. Trinity became a home. I walked through the arches at the front gate and entered a magical, calming, and intellectually booming environment. I loved taking classes with Irish students and I learned about their educational style and past experiences. During my time at Trinity I grew as a student and person. IFSA Butler helped me reach my goals while studying in Ireland. They were a key supportive resources in my journey. IFSA was extremely helpful before, during, and after my study abroad experience. They answered all the questions I had before leaving for Ireland. During my time in Ireland, they provided great emotional support and were there for all student needs. We had GREAT trips as a group throughout Ireland and I made lasting friendships with other students on the IFSA program. I would highly recommend IFSA Butler as a study abroad program provider and Trinity College Dublin as a location.

The IFSA program at Trinity College Dublin was an overwhelmingly positive experience. The housing options were outstanding (especially Adalaide Square), the academic support was fantastic, and the community feel and social outings promoted a sense of cultural connection in Ireland. IFSA encouraged me to explore my sporting interests, and as a result I was able to interact strongly with both Irish and American students and to develop long-lasting connections. For anyone anxious or nervous about going abroad, IFSA provided me a strong platform to navigate the transition to Dublin and to become comfortable there quickly.