Study Abroad Ireland…Lifetime Learning Experience
This year, Moraine Park participated in a study abroad opportunity with other technical colleges to send students to Ireland for 2 weeks. Our partner college in Ireland is the Waterford Institute of Technology and we work with them to expand students’ knowledge of business and explore issues from a global perspective. During this study abroad course, students participated in classes with Irish instructors and attend business tours while being immersed in another culture.
“The sights and sounds that I experienced while abroad are ones that I will cherish for a lifetime. The feeling of being in a different country and learning about how other people live is just incredible. I have learned so much on this trip, not only about the country, but about myself as well. I am thankful for this opportunity and I hope to travel much more in years to come.” – Anjelynn Coyne
Study abroad provides students the opportunity to expand their global perspectives both professionally and personally. These opportunities allow students to see business from another perspective and talk with people who have different cultural and professional backgrounds. One of the students who participated in the trip mentioned that during her job interview she asked about accommodating her schedule so she could participate in the Ireland study abroad opportunity if offered the job. The employer not only stated that they were willing to work with and felt it showed her willingness to work with people of different backgrounds. She felt that participating in study abroad was a determining factor in helping her stand out when she was offered the job.
This year’s study abroad opportunity to Ireland included a behind the scenes tour of Waterford Crystal, Crook Stadium Park and the Jameson Distillery, a visit to the former Waterford Magdalene Laundry, visits to sites of the Irish Potato Famine, and viewing a hurling match. In addition to the opportunities in Ireland, we traveled to Northern Ireland where students learned through lectures and murals within Belfast, the economic and political tensions that existed and still exist today.
“Having the opportunity to study abroad in Ireland was something that I will carry with me forever. The country was absolutely wonderful, and I learned so much in such a short amount of time. Every day was something new and I would never have expected to learn something every single day that would impact my knowledge greatly.” – Lydia Lauman
For more information on Moraine Park student life activities, like study abroad opportunities, visit morainepark.edu.
