IFSA Trinity College Dublin Partnership

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.

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.

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!