Travel Journal: Galway, Ireland - Study Overseas Experience
In the heart of Ireland, the city of Galway stands out as a unique destination for international students seeking an immersive cultural experience. Two Holy Cross students, Abigail Clark '26 and Caroline Kramer '26, have recently embarked on this journey, finding themselves captivated by Galway's blend of lively culture, deep historical roots, and vibrant arts scene.
Galway, often referred to as the cultural capital of Ireland, offers a rich environment to explore Irish history, literature, and society. The city's manageable size, walkability, and presence of fellow international students and locals allow for rich cultural exchanges, making their stay both enjoyable and enriching.
For Abigail Clark, a News Editor at Holy Cross, the unique charm of Galway lies in its authentic Irish cultural experience. From attending Sunday Mass at the Galway Cathedral and hearing the "Our Father" recited in Gaelic, to exploring the bustling medieval streets and traditional music, every moment in Galway is a testament to its Irish heritage.
Caroline Kramer, a student majoring in English and Sociology, shares a similar sentiment. Her study abroad experience in Galway for the Spring 2025 semester has been marked by everyday moments, even the mundane ones, holding a special value. The city's friendly and lively community, combined with opportunities to engage in local music, festivals, and excursions to nearby natural sites like the Cliffs of Moher, makes Galway distinctively charming.
The study abroad programs at Holy Cross offer such immersive experiences in various countries across the globe. For instance, the group of 25 students has already explored Galway, Eyre Square, the Cliffs of Moher, Giant's Causeway, and the Aran Islands.
In Galway, Gaelic is widely used, with signs, bus stops, and elevators having Gaelic as the first language. This linguistic immersion adds another layer to the cultural experience, providing students with a deeper understanding of Ireland's rich history and traditions.
Another Holy Cross student, Claire Wolf, majoring in Political Science with a concentration in Peace and Conflict Studies, is also making the most of her time in Galway. Claire, who is involved in SGA, Club Running, Pax Christi, Hanify-Howland Lecture Committee, Tour Guide, and Gateways Orientation at Holy Cross, finds the city's unique atmosphere where history and modernity coexist, providing a dynamic backdrop for both academic and personal growth.
In conclusion, the charm of Galway lies in its ability to offer a truly authentic Irish cultural experience, with its friendly and lively community, vibrant arts scene, and access to natural beauty. For students like Abigail, Caroline, and Claire, studying abroad in Galway is more than just an academic endeavour; it's an opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture, make lifelong memories, and grow personally and academically.
[1] Information sourced from the study abroad programmes at Holy Cross. [2] Personal experiences shared by Abigail Clark '26 and Caroline Kramer '26. [5] Additional insights from Claire Wolf's reflections on her time in Galway.
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