Irish Gap Year Adventure and Leadership Program

The Adventure and Leadership program was an incredible opportunity to spend time in all parts of Ireland while participating in exciting activities and allowing a significant amount of independence for individual participants. Trips were frequent and took the group to all corners of the island, exploring both the republic and the United Kingdom, and allowing for a nuanced dialogue regarding the history and conflict of Ireland. There was very little repetition in the day to day activities, from hiking to surfing, rock climbing and volunteer work. Working with local organizations was especially interesting and helped to ensure the program felt like more than a summer camp and had a visible impact on the local community. IGY allowed for participants to spend free time in any manor they chose, to the point where students were allowed to visit other towns such as Sligo on days off. Taking part in this program was both a helpful respite from academia and a stepping stone to becoming more independent while providing an incredible opportunity that few my age have experienced.