Tales from Abroad

Exceeding Expectations: The University College Cork (Ireland)

"My study abroad experience this past year far exceeded my expectations. While I knew I would have fun and delight in many adventures, I never anticipated Cork becoming home. And that is what this city has become to me - a second home. 

From my brilliant flatmates to the attentive and caring staff in the International Education Office, from the quad of UCC to the dramatic West Cork coastline, Ireland has instilled in me a sense of
independence, freedom, comfort and happiness. While the difference between the US system of education and Ireland's takes some getting accustomed to, I was impressed with UCC. Most of my classes were relatively small despite the population of the college, and the course offerings are diverse and interesting. 

My advice to future students would be to take second level courses and above, and to keep up with the work over the course of the year, as to make the exams a less stressful experience - that will help to adjust to the different system. My other advice would be to take advantage of all the traveling you can, but also don't overlook Cork City. There are so many great things to do in the city - of course the nightlife, but also the movie theaters, plays, art and the musical entertainment- which you can find almost nightly. 

I am going to miss Cork dearly. I have grown very attached to this city, this country and the great people that I have met within it. But there is comfort in knowing that it will always be home, a home away from home."

Kathryn Casey
College of the Holy Cross, Massachusetts
Early Start in Literatures and academic year (2001/2002)
(Used by permission from UCC International Office staff)

Back to Top