Program Reviews

I studied at UCC in the Autumn of 2013. This was my first time to Ireland and I loved the atmosphere of the city of Cork and the students at the University as well. I lived in The Spires and was lucky enough to live with students from Italy, France, and Ireland. We were a very nice mix and learned a lot of customs from each other. I took courses in biology, public health, economics, Irish literature, and world religions. Throughout my experience I made lifelong friends and got to travel to a variety of countries throughout Europe. I would recommend a study experience at UCC for anyone because the Irish culture and education I learned are unparalleled!

The walk from my off-campus apartment to UCC took about 20 minutes, giving me time to appreciate the colorful sights of Cork City, and making it easy to get to the UCC student center. This is where the magic happens. It's the best time of any college student's life, and don't be surprised if you find yourself planning your next trip to Ireland on the flight home.

From the in class lectures, to the hands on field trips, the student societies, and even the charming historic myth drenched quad (beware!), UCC had so much to offer the most timid international student. I immediately felt at home in Cork and at UCC. I learned more about Ireland than I ever could have hoped and I didn't have to stray away from my Major or general area of study. Even my French minor could be accommodated academically and socially! It's hard being dropped in an entirely new place, but the University was so welcoming and accommodating. I could not have asked for a better experience as an international student at UCC.

I studied at UCC in the Fall of 2013 and it was one of the best decision I have ever made ! The school is awesome and not to mention beautiful and the people are top notch. I made some of the best friends there from all over the world and we had the most incredible experience together! Can't wait to go back!

I studied abroad to UCC from Montana, USA last year for the academic year. It was an incredible experience. I took classes I could have never taken (like Celtic Saints, Spoken Irish, and Of Monsters and Men). The social scene was great too. There was always something to do at night. I lived right downtown on Washington Street so everything was close. I would recommend EVERYONE study to UCC. One of the best years of my life so far.

Before I start, I hope you know that I studied abroad by myself without knowing anyone. Cork is an amazing place, and I wish I could be back there every single day. Through the school, people, and community, I have never felt so comfortable in a place that was not my home. You will learn a new meaning of friendly and fun! Cork city is absolutely beautiful and the best advice I can give you is to get lost, it's the best way to learn a place inside and out. UCC is a remarkable campus with an enormous amount of social life, you can fit in anywhere. You will have the time of your life if you choose to study abroad through UCC! I'm a more well-rounded person because of my experience, I fell in love with Cork! I have friends that will last forever, and memories that will never be forgotten. When I got on that plane to leave, Ireland definitely took my heart, especially Cork. I'm telling you now, you won't regret it, and you won't want to leave.

I did a split-year abroad where I spent my fall semester in Paris and my spring semester in Cork. Paris was an incredible experience, but it was also very stressful because it was such a big city and I come from a tiny town in New England. But when I got to Cork, I immediately felt at home. Everyone I met was incredibly nice, and in those first few weeks, if I looked lost, someone would immediately ask if I needed help. The UCC campus is gorgeous, too - when it wasn't raining, I'd read or hang out with friends on the ampitheater. At UCC I took classes that I wouldn't have had the opportunity to take otherwise - Irish folklore, archaeology, and contemporary lit - and I even learned a little of the Irish language. The professors and staff at UCC were always there for me if I had a question, and so were the other students. It felt very much like a community rather than just a school.

Where do I even begin with my experience abroad at UCC? The emotions I felt going in were overwhelming and had my mind spinning in a whirlwind of excitement and panic.
But I thrived over there.
I was going through an intense part of my life. I had very recently come out to my parents and was just starting to really become comfortable with myself. The five months I spent in Cork (and traveling elsewhere) helped me to discover the confidence and strength that I always knew was buried inside of me somewhere. It was the happiest time of my life.
Of course the classes were great, but to be honest, that's not what I remember about my stay. I remember the craziness of RAG week, playing hockey and going to the hockey ball, the beautiful campus, and all of the amazing people.
I admit that just about all of the friends I made during this program were American but I met this fantastic Irish girl at UCC who I continue to stay in contact with. It turns out we were both going through some similar situations and we're now very good friends.
Maybe a lot of this is me rambling at this point but Cork will always have an important place in my heart. Every time I put on my UCC hoodie, I feel like I've returned to that place of confidence, strength, and happiness.

Cork City is an amazing place. It is an extremely friendly city. I never felt uncomfortable or endangered. People are always looking for a friendly chat and to help you!

An initial difficulty was language. It was difficult to communicate until I got used to the accent.

I had a great time abroad. Cork has an amazing social life and even better academics. My favorite part about my entire trip was being able to travel not only around Ireland, but also how cheap it was to travel to many other countries around Ireland. I flew to Barcelona, Greece, Rome, and Amsterdam and had the time of my life.