University of Wisconsin–Madison

Ireland: Abi Schmeiser (My Global Classroom)

A classroom with cinderblock walls with a projector on the screen with a multiple choice thermodynamics question.

Other than the rain that was more often out the window than not, my classrooms at the University of Limerick didn’t look a whole lot different from the classrooms at UW. The class often had a PowerPoint at the front during lecture, often with practice problems like the one shown in the picture on the left. Though the lecture pictured was a small class—only about 30 of us in my Thermodynamics class—there are also large lecture halls typical of first year classes. The biggest difference I noticed aren’t visible to the eye. The classes allow for some practice problem, but outside of reading and writing, I didn’t really have consistent homework. Unlike at UW, Thermodynamics didn’t send me home with homework problems or practice exams. Though it was definitely possible to adjust to, there was only one assignment in the middle of the semester worth 20% of the final grade, with the final exam being the last 80%.

A study location as seen from above with all-glass walls, a mural of people around a piano, and cushy orange chairs.

Many of my exams were in the Main Building. Though I couldn’t bring my phone into the exam room to take a photo, the picture on the right is some art just inside the entrance of the Main Building. The exams were probably the most jolting experience for me. The stringency is similar to taking the ACT or SAT. You can bring in your student ID, a pencil and a pen (you’ll want both since some exams only let you use pen, and some only let you use pencil), and often a nonprogrammable calculator with the lid removed. It’s very formal.

A long hallway with circular art installations on the roof and circular orange chairs scattered throughout the hallway.

Outside of the classroom, I often studied with friends in the library or my house. The library is well-lit with nice views of Ireland’s signature greenery, though it is often quite busy. To the left is a photo of the library at the beginning of the semester before it got too busy.

 

 

Abi smiles on a gravel path in front of a dry mountain.

Abi Schmeiser

Hometown: Waunakee, Wisconsin

Major: Chemical Engineering

Program: University of Limerick

One reason I chose to attend the University of Limerick is that it offers courses related to my chemical engineering degree and fascinating area studies classes related to my International Engineering certificate, while also having wonderful clubs and societies to be involved in on campus!