Eastern Student Allison Grant of Norwich Completes Study Abroad in Ireland

2016 Sep 21

The Study Abroad Office at Eastern Connecticut State University helps many students study abroad each year. Study abroad allows students to experience the world and the global community. They can gain cultural insight while living and studying along with students of a host country for a full semester or academic year, while earning Eastern Connecticut State University credits.

Allison Grant '18 of Norwich recently completed a study abroad in Ireland.

Grant, who majors in Pre-Elementary Education and History and Social Science, said, "I have always had a strong desire to travel. I knew from the moment I started applying to colleges, that I would study abroad. Through a partnership with Central Connecticut State University, I applied to the National University of Ireland-Galway."

During her trip, Grant took courses in Development of the Medieval Castle in Europe and Theories of Personality. She was also involved in a service learning literacy project.

"When I left for Ireland, I expected to spend all of my time in Ireland. I did not. I also visited Copenhagen, London, Berlin, Italy, Athens and Amsterdam. There are so many great memories I have from this trip. I learned so much -- not just from classes but from meeting people."

Grant's favorite memories of her study abroad trip include sitting in Piazza Michelangelo writing in her journal and watching an Easter celebration unfold in front of the Duomo in Florence.

She also volunteered at a refugee camp in Athens. "All of the families were given a tent; it was humbling to see that everything they owned was in that tent." Most of the volunteers at the refugee camp did not speak Arabic or Farsi. A group of translators, all refugees themselves, helped volunteers communicate with the children and adults in the camp.

"Studying abroad was the most life-changing and positive experience of my life thus far. I would go back tomorrow if I could. The culture I was exposed to and the different experiences I underwent while abroad have made me a better, more conscious citizen. If anyone has an opportunity to study aboard, I strongly recommend it."

Studying abroad allows students to become more independent and confident. It helps them improve their communication skills, learn new languages, and experience cultural differences first-hand. Students can build a strong resume as well as earn credits, all while traveling the world. Many students take the opportunity to study abroad during their time at Eastern.