Studying abroad at University College Dublin (UCD) for the past five months has been transformative in both my academic and personal life and exceeded every expectation I had for this program. UCD’s campus was much like Michigan State, combining nature with classrooms and accommodations; I never felt like I was living in a capital city. The birds were always alive, chirping all day and night. Campus is open to the public, so dogs were never far…This was absolutely an unexpected highlight and a much-needed reprieve for any homesickness! The campus life was lively and supportive, providing many opportunities to meet new people, which I definitely took advantage of! Being such an international university, there were countless options to meet other study abroad students from all over the world, as well as integrate deeper into Irish culture. This provided a unique backdrop to my studies and opened my eyes to new perspectives.

Academically, UCD’s political science program was exceptional. The curriculum was rigorous and comprehensive, covering everything from European Union politics to international relations theory. My professors were not only scholars but also practitioners who brought real-world insights into the classroom. I had the opportunity to talk with current members of different Irish governing bodies, as well as attend during two election cycles. This was fascinating when it came to understanding the Irish governmental systems, as I was thrown into the thick of the politics. With my focus on Pre Law, I also took some early Irish law classes that expanded on medieval legal systems and their shaping of modern laws, something that is not applicable to U.S. legalities!

Dublin itself was a living classroom. The city’s rich political history, from the Easter Rising to its contemporary role in the European Union, was palpable everywhere. Each museum in Dublin holds a rich history about the city, country, and Europe as a whole. I was a frequent attendee of the National Museum of Archeology because I never felt like I saw everything they had to offer! Public transportation from Dublin to surrounding areas was readily available, providing opportunities to get out of the city and explore some smaller coastal towns. Howth is a stunning cliffside peninsula that has amazing views and restaurants. I even traveled down to a small beach known as Forty Foot on one of the first warm spring days to cold plunge in the ocean! I have never had an experience like that, and those memories are ones I will cherish forever.

To my peers considering studying abroad, I wholeheartedly recommend it. The academic, personal, and professional growth you will gain is unparalleled. Parents, friends, donors, and alumni, your support in facilitating such opportunities is crucial and immensely impactful. My time at UCD was more than just an academic endeavor; it was a transformative journey that broadened my horizons and experiences, solidifying my future career path.

Name: Braylon Arsenault
Status: Senior
Major: Political Science - Pre Law
Hometown: Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
Program: University College Dublin-Soc. Sci., Humanities & Business in Ireland