Program Reviews

I got a lot from the time that I spent in Ireland while being a part of this program. I got the opportunity to see some of the coolest historical sites & most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. The social atmosphere was a mix, fortunately I got along really well with my housemates, but that was not necessarily a universal experience across all the houses. I met some people I really love, but there was a period of adjustment in the first few weeks as I realized that not everyone across both programs came here for similar reasons as I did. It all works out if you find your people and stay focused on what you want to do. I would recommend the arts program to anyone who enjoys painting and drawing, or doesn’t necessarily know which medium is their favorite yet. I enjoyed working with all of the arts tutors and got a lot from the workshops, though as someone who doesn’t prefer to focus on painting and drawing, I was disappointed I did not get more opportunities to work in other mediums. Going into this program having been to college I think made the living away from home/sharing spaces with roommates easier, it seemed to be harder for others just out of high school. I think this experience could be good practice for people who aren’t used to those settings. I entered this experience spontaneously and with no expectations, and looking back at my time here, I can say that I’m very glad I chose to last minute go on academic leave and fly to Ireland. I will take the lessons I learned here+places I went+friends I made with me for a long time.

Irish Gap Year is a really well run and designed program that cultivates a sense of both independence and community.
I spent three months making art under the guidance of very talented professionals, all while developing relationships with my peers (who were all very talented artists), and learning how to live away from home. I’m sure the adventure part is great too.
There is also such a sense of kindness and support. Moments of stress were well handled, and creative solutions were figured out when needed.
A really great balance of structured and free time, and the overall stunning Irish landscapes, really helped this program shine.

I had a great time in the Irish Gap Year Arts and Culture program. The program location, right on the sea, is stunning and very inspiring as an artist. It was refreshing to come to Bundrowes House and work on art during the workshop days. The artist mentors were all incredibly nice, I worked the most with Anna Leask and Michael Wann but all of the mentors are some of my favorite people. I have improved on my skills while being here, and learned new mediums and techniques. I have made connections in this program that I hope to keep throughout the rest of my life. If you are considering joining this program be sure to be prepared for the Irish weather, even though you are inside a lot of the time in the fall and winter Bundrowes House is an old building so the cold is felt inside. I was thankful to have a light scarf even on the warmer days.

I really enjoyed my experience in Ireland and Bundoran and personally felt that the program helped me to grow a lot as an artist and an individual. I have never really experienced a group of people where I felt that I have meshed with all of them outside of my family. Spending time and getting to know other artists and creative people really helped to get rid of my artist block and explore different ways of thinking and creating. Getting to know all sorts of people from both the arts and adventure and leadership programs was a big positive part of my experience as I was able to become close with people who are drawn to different things and who have vastly different mindsets. Being able to travel all over the Irish countryside and visit a couple of big Irish cities really helped me to get to know the country and the people here, as well as gave me an opportunity to have a window into the way Irish people live. Overall I had an amazing experience in Ireland and with Irish Gap Year.

I loved my time out here ! Ireland is absolutely magical . The staff here were lovely and very supportive . This opportunity is life changing in so many ways . I am so grateful for my time out here , I’ve learned a lot about myself that I’m eager to explore more of going out from here . Being able to do art in this environment was so encouraging . I discovered talents I didn’t even know I had . I loved the tutors so much , I never felt any judgement from them .I really enjoyed Michael wann and ken gunning as my tutors !

If you’re reading this that means you’re considering doing this program to which I have to say go for it. I was in the arts and culture program and I had a lot of fun. I would not call myself by any means an artist yet I still had a lot of fun and felt accepted by the other people here even by those who had spent a year in art school. I would say that if you are someone who likes to spend time outdoors this program may not be for you. You spend a lot of time doing art inside though you still do go on trips around ireland and occasionally go surfing. The staff for arts were so nice (alex and odhran) and made it super fun. The town of bundoran is definitely rural so keep that in mind if you are a city person. Overall I am very grateful to have done this program and met amazing new friends.

the people who work at and attend irish gap year are fun and kind. i recommend irish gap year to anyone who enjoys making friendships and spending quality time with unique and amazing people. in the arts group i have met like minded people who share similar passions and interests as me. the arts and adventure groups live together creating a balanced and exciting social scene. if you are looking for a more lowkey time to reflect and create, definitely apply to the arts and culture program. if you are looking for an adventure to push yourself, i recommend the adventure and leadership program.

Definitely the best decision I could have made as an early adult. Even after I paid for everything, it was all more than worth it in the end. Not just for the experience, but also for the friendships you make, the values you gain, and the memories you will never forget. Not only do you get to learn more about the culture, but you’re right in it as if you’ve lived here forever. Of course, there will always be ups and downs, but in the end, this program is more than worth the time and energy. Thank

I think that this program is a huge help to those going into college. It helps with getting out of your comfort zones and it gives you experience with living with people. The weather is a bit rough and wet but it honestly adds to the experience. The hikes can be a bit rough for those who are unexperienced so a bit of training might be necessary. Also I have to say that surfing will be rough in the beginning but if you stick with it I promise you it will be the most fun thing that you will be doing.

The group is fun, we participate in amazing activities and well Ireland being Ireland, it's always beautiful. We got the chance to do a lot of surfing, hikes, challenges and trips all over Ireland. I loved my time here and it changed me A LOT. I went to Ireland with no intention of going to college after and I still don't want to. Everybody here comes from different situations but everyone will become your friend.The only bad thing about IGY is the food but then again I'm French. I recommend this program to people who are a bit lost in life or just to have a good craic.