University of Wisconsin–Madison

Ireland: Hana Heidenreich

Program: IFSA University of Galway, Spring

Hana’s Majors: History, Political Science, Legal Studies

A street lined by brightly colored buildings, busy with pedestrians. Small, colorful flags are hung between buildings across the street.
Downtown Galway.

What is your most memorable experience from your program?

The most memorable experience from my program was the people I met. Through IFSA specifically, I met some nice people who also go to UW-Madison. Moreover, living as a student in the accommodations allowed me to meet some really lovely people from universities all over the US.

How did your identities impact your experience?

Galway does not have much racial diversity, and as an Asian student, I was a little nervous to go to a school with such a large white demographic, but I overall thought it went well. There were a few instances of racist remarks, but nothing recurring. I think that the other students were nice and friendly, and there are communities available for people of color to join to feel some solidarity.

How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?

There are no assignments, attendance is not mandatory, and your entire grade is based on one or two exams. The professor is less involved in your learning, so you have to spend a lot more time on your own to learn the material.