Skip to content

UGA - Social Work - Social Issues in Northern Ireland : Testimonials (Ballycastle)

The following program testimonial responses have been selected for publication by UGA StudyAway
Final Reflection Questions
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
Program Testimonials
The relationships I developed abroad within the program and outside of the program were the most impactful to me. The curriculum of the program was phenomenal and there was not a single piece of information gained that will not be useful in my future studies and practice.
— Kelly Autry, Maymester 2016
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
Program Testimonials
Corrymeela was one of the best parts of the trip for me. Visiting Corrymeela, felt like going to a retreat. I learned so much, both educational and personal. When we first arrived at Corrymeela, I wasn't sure if I would like it. I remember whispering to a friend, " I don't think I'm going to like it here". It's funny how things quickly change, because days later when we were leaving, my heart was heavy. It's hard to explain the experience itself, but it was one that I will forever remember.
— Brianna Bussey, Maymester 2016
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
Program Testimonials
It's difficult to put it into words. It was a very experiential program, much more than I realized it would be. I gained a whole new perspective on the world and how we, as humans, view and handle conflict. We met so many wonderful people, with so many incredible stories. I feel very grateful for the opportunity to go to Northern Ireland and gain these long-lasted memories.
— Paige Lewis, Maymester 2016
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
Program Testimonials
Do it! You will not have any regrets.
— Kelly Autry, Maymester 2016
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
Program Testimonials
If you are able to go, then DO IT! You will not regret it, and it will be something that you could share with your family and friends for a lifetime.
— Brianna Bussey, Maymester 2016
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
Program Testimonials
Research as much as you can before so maybe you won't be too lost when they talk about the details of the Troubles, such as people, events, legislation, politics, religion, etc.
— Paige Lewis, Maymester 2016
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
Program Testimonials
Be prepared to be exposed to heavy content.
— Micah Branch, Maymester 2017
How did the experience impact you and your future educational/career/personal goals?
Program Testimonials
My experience was one that I will reflect on for years. I will be able to incorporate all that I have learned in my profession and beyond. The knowledge gained from this experiece will not only inform my practice and future studies, but also my personal life.
— Kelly Autry, Maymester 2016
How did the experience impact you and your future educational/career/personal goals?
Program Testimonials
This experience definitely helped shape the way I view the world today. I knew that other countries had problems, but I never made a connection with any of them. In Northern Ireland, I found many personal connections with the impact of The Troubles. We all have our bias and prejudices, but it's important to remember that everyone is going through something, we are all imperfect, but we are all human!!!
— Brianna Bussey, Maymester 2016
How did the experience impact you and your future educational/career/personal goals?
Program Testimonials
It definitely made a lasting impact. It reaffirmed my decision to be in social work. I am more interested now in learning about nonviolent peacekeeping solutions.
— Paige Lewis, Maymester 2016
How did the experience impact you and your future educational/career/personal goals?
Program Testimonials
It has given me a wider lense to conflict resolution and peace process.
— Micah Branch, Maymester 2017