Bella Hoffer, Plus3 Ireland Summer 2023
This program is short, and it will be over before you know it. I loved this trip, and I don’t have any regrets, but there are a few things I could have done that might have enhanced the experience. First, I wish I would have done some research before I went. With our class we did a good amount of preparation about the country and the companies. However, we had so much free time, so I wish I would have looked up activities to do in our free time. If I had a list of places to go and things to see it would have been easier to decide what to do during this free time. I know some people in our group planned to go see certain sites, and it worked well for them.
One of the most important things to do is document everything! You are required to write blogs every day which may seem like a lot, but it is great to summarize your experience and to look back on. On top of this it would help to take notes throughout the day. You can take notes on things you learn during the company visits or even just your favorite parts of your day. This will help you reflect on your experience and remember all the best parts. I would also take as many pictures and videos as you can. I always forget to take pictures, but I really tried to during this trip, and they are so fun to look back on.
You will have so many new experiences and meet so many new people, so I would stay as engaged as you can. Documenting can help you stay engaged, but also ask questions. On the company visits, ask any questions you have about themselves, the company, or the industry. On tours and educational activities, ask about the people and the culture. During your free time, talk to locals and ask them about their lives. Having authentic experiences with the native people is the best way to learn about their culture. I wish I would have engaged more and tried to talk to locals.
There is a lot to take in during this program and you may feel tired, but whatever you do not sit in the hotel. You are not going to have fun or learn anything in there. Get out of bed and go do something, even if it is just walking around the city. It is fun to go places with your group of friends, but you can do things on your own too. Having a few experiences by yourself can be so valuable too. Maximize this experience as much as you can. You can relax when you are back home! You never know what you’ll see, what you’ll learn, or who you’ll meet, so go be adventurous.
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