Submitted by Cooper Rothman on the 2020 spring semester program in Limerick, Ireland…
This week began my first classes at the University of Limerick, and with that came adjusting to the different scheduling and education system. Coming to an English speaking location I didn’t expect so many subtle differences in the way they do education, and adjusting this week has been difficult. In Limerick, they have class hours called “Tutoring”, which are similar to labs in the United States, but for classes in the humanities. Being a Communications major at Delaware, I’ve never experienced this kind of class before and it is interesting being in a smaller group of students working together. Even though it is out of the norm, I have met more Irish students through these beginning tutorials and I hope to meet more over the semester. Another key difference is that while at Delaware we have one class 2 or 3 times a week, Limerick only has lectures once a week.
The time difference has left me with more time on some days so I can run around campus, one of my hobbies. I ran to the center of Limerick and explored around King John’s Castle, somewhere I hope to visit soon. Other days are packed with classes and work, so time management has been difficult. Once my schedule becomes finalized, I hopefully will be able to segment my time better.
Last Sunday, all of the international students were able to visit the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most touristy, yet beautiful locations on the island. Despite Ireland normally being very rainy, we had the “luck of the Irish” and got a beautiful day. The experience from every angle was breathtaking, and something that I’m happy I got to do once in my lifetime. It was also fun bonding with friends I’ve made on the program.