Nicolette Kynkor, Human Resources Management Major

During the fall 2007 semester, I studied abroad in Dublin, Ireland, with the Dublin Business School. A short description of my experience could never truly capture the essence of my studying abroad adventure. Living in Dublin allowed me to experience the city life in Ireland as well as the growing international influence of the urban distinct. Dublin’s youthfulness and energy were contagious. The Dubliners were welcoming and eager to learn about the real American culture, as I was equally interested in learning about the true character of Ireland.

I traveled all over Ireland to Killarney, Wicklow, Kilkenny, Cork, Derry, Galway, the Aran Islands, and Belfast. The countryside was breathtakingly beautiful and its imagery was as spectacular as I imagined. The towns had there own unique character, and in every town I met the most welcoming, friendly, and lively people. When I traveled to other parts of Ireland, I began to recognize why it is the Emerald Isle!

Traveling to mainland Europe was also convenient. I traveled to Brussels, Amsterdam, Prague, Valencia, and Barcelona. Study abroad was an empowering experience for me, and during these trips to mainland Europe, I had moments when I realized how influential traveling can be – the independence and freedom of discovering these cities was life changing. When I traveled to each country, I learned more about what it means to be American as well as the similarities amongst all human beings.

Upon returning to MC, my appreciation for the education and the value of relationships with professors grew. Studying abroad allowed me to experience a different kind of education. I came back to campus with a refreshed and enriched perspective of the quality in an MC education. The lessons I learned abroad have enhanced my classroom experience, because I have a greater awareness of the world and how it works.

I will return to Ireland in some form, because I have connected to the people and the place that I called home for five months. My future plans are not concrete, but I will continue to learn about the world and all that it has to offer through embarking on a journey filled with travel and life.