June 2, 2023
SHL summer study abroad to Ireland: a recap
SHL-ECU students and faculty departed for Ireland, May 7 from various airports on the eastern seaboard. All of us met in Dublin on the morning of May 8 at Dublin International Airport and departed for Cork with stops along the way.
The first stop en route to Cork was the Rock of Cashel and the remains of a historical castle. The group then departed for Cork and the Metropole Hotel. That evening we shared the kick-off dinner and many of us recuperated from our jet lag.
In Cork, the group met at a University College Cork classroom and heard from a representative from the local convention and visitor bureau and then proceeded to the English Market in the heart of the city.
The next day, we departed for a day trip to Cobh, a short trip from Cork. Cobh was a major departure point for Irish immigration to the USA, Australia and more. Cobh is a beautiful small town located on the water and a great visitor destination. Additional trips included Blarney Castle (kiss the stone) and Gardens. Additionally, a trip to Bunratty Castle and a typical Irish rural village was included on the tour.
Our next stop was Killarney near the Ring of Kerry and there were beautiful views and landscapes. We also visited Killarney National Park and examined the differences between USA National Parks and Irish National Parks. We then visited the Burren region and the rocky landscape of the area. The group stayed in the Village of Ballyvaghn and explored the area. After visits to the countryside and the Cliffs of Moher, the next day the group headed east to Dublin. The Dublin visit included the Book of Kells and Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse at St. James Gate, Croke Park (home of the Gaelic Athletic Association headquarters) and shopping in Dublin.
The Wednesday before heading back to the States, the group met at a Gaeltacht tavern near St. Stephens park. The traditional entertainment included music from local musicians. Our tour guide also provided Irish language lessons for basic conversation. Everyone was willing but perhaps need more practice.
The trip wrapped up with dinner near the Dublin downtown. Everyone enjoyed the program, and the students will be working on and submitting their journals and completed project plans. The program was led by Drs. Cynthia Deale and Bob O’Halloran. Student participants included Mamie Balance, Savannah Clardy, Anna Fuccello, Chasity Hughes, Ellaire Ivey, Makayla Lane, Ashley Smith, McKenna Smith, Olivia Winter, Yvette Randolph and Jackson Kassir.
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