Has anyone done the study abroad program at Fordham? Specifically the one in Belfast, Ireland? However, any program will do and I wish to know what the experience was like and how much it cost etc.
My kid had close friends who did study abroad. She didnt elect to do that because of her major and working to get it all done on time…long story.
Everyone who went abroad had a good time and was glad they did it. But…
The notion of going abroad “junior year” isnt what it used to be a long time ago. And the risks in Europe (continent) are greater now than before.
The other thing is it is a big decision to leave alma mater and go overseas. If there are professor and classes you want at Fordham they are likely foresaken. You have to weigh all the factors.
Once upon a time many “centuries” ago I went overseas for a full year. It was transformational and I traveled extensively during fall break, christmas break and spring break and into the summer. But that was then and this is now and the world is much different than before. Most europeans speak FLUENT English and in fact force it on you so they can practice. Its not like it was 40 or 50 years ago. The world has changed dramatically. The castles still exist for tourism but the europeans are all into technology and the new age. Old Europe is dying or dead. And some of the changes are severe. I wont discuss the politics here as that is inappropriate. But you know what i am saying. For example, 40 years ago the Metro in Paris was safe. Now its treacherous. Business people have their laptops, briefcases, passports, wallets robbed in open daylight.
It grieves me tremendously. I was over there with my family twice in the last 10 years or so and both times it was not as I remembered, not innocent and fun but stressful and anxiety ridden and VERY expensive. The most relaxing time we had was in The Costa Del Sol in Spain and then when we returned home, there was tragedy in spain, massive police oversight, the airlines were BRUTAL and it ruined our trip.
Ireland is a different world now, from the 70’s. The 70’s in Ireland were the place to avoid because of terrorism over “The Troubles”. That is largely gone away now and its much safer and a lot of fun. But London is not safe. Great Britain is not safe. So if you go to Ireland then you will likely be better off staying there the semester and not traveling.
Its up to you. And many will have differing viewpoints, some of them pollyanna ish and naive. Some are going to be 'damn the torpedoes full speed ahead" and you have to decide for yourself what is to be gained and what is to be lost leaving Fordham. Its a sad indictment of global troubles that we cant travel and feel safe anymore. And in my viewpoint, a sad indictment of the One Nation One World that has evolved and the loss of culture and the special nature of each country.
Nobody in business looks very hard for german, french, italian and spanish speakers anymore…because the Europeans all speak FLUENT english. There are mcdonalds and starbucks everywhere in europe. Its sickening.
I recall the days of leisurely afternoons after class in France, taking an afternoon cafe express (what Italians call espresso), smoking a gauloise and then a pastis liquor, talking with frenchmen wearng berets and discussing big events, culture, and then being invited to their homes to take in a fabulous meal and assortment of cheeses, followed by brandy and more cafe and gauloises. It was a dream world. They didnt force English on me and I was encouraged to speak French…I was in more countries it seemed than american states…riding trains and meeting people…and rarely americans.
that world is gone. Forever.
Just my two cents. But if you truly want to go abroad and get away from New York and see another culture and grow…who am I to dissuade you. Just be alert to the risks and the facts that the world has gravely changed.
Ireland is lovely I hear. I’ve been throughout Wales, England and Scotland.
Good luck.
Thanks for your input. However, I realize that I forgot to put that I’m only looking at three week program that goes from July to August because it is the cheaper option. So I’m not going to really be departing Fordham. ; )
Short travel abroad programs are always fun and help you put things in perspective. Comparing our lifestyles and culture to theirs. Its probably well worth the effort and Ireland in August is probably one of the best times to be there weather wise.
I heard Fordham’s program is less competitive than other universities, so if you are able to go then do so and enjoy. If you decide on a longer program you want to ensure that you will get the classes you need and any scholarship you have at Fordham travels with you. You can research more options online. We travel to Europe often and never had a problem. You have to be cautious everywhere, but it’s the same here in the USA now. Be open to new experiences. Best of luck.
American students, including Fordham students, are studying abroad in record numbers. Overwhelmingly, they have a good time. I’ve not spoken with anyone who has gone to the Ireland program, but have spoken to several students who have gone to others. All have had excellent experiences. None have had safety issues. Have you checked the Fordham website for info on costs? Not sure they’re posted there, but that would be your best bet.
Myself – I travel alot. Female. By myself, as well as with others. I have been in London quite a bit. It is quite a safe city. As with any large city, there are areas to avoid. As a student tourist, you would not be going to those in the ordinary course, in any event.
Belfast is an interesting city with a rich culture. Hope you are able to swing it! If so, have a great time!
Just follow the links and you’ll find everything you need: https://fordham-ip.terradotta.com/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgram&Program_ID=10344.
Thanks! I’ve already calculated all the cost for everything. unfortunately, i also have to apply directly to the school because it’s not a Fordham run program. In fact, Fordham has last year’s link for the program and I have to get most of my info from the main site of the program. I’m relying on getting the scholarship because otherwise I won’t be able to go, I think. But thanks for the help!
Update: I’m going! One of the dean’s was generous enough to make sure those who applied to this specific program get full tuition (including accommodation) covered by Fordham. So I am officially going to Belfast!
Have fun. Know the difference between Bushmills and Jameson and the reasons therefore! 