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Margaret Niebur
Margaret Niebur is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Galway.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
The day we planned our own trip to the island Skellig Michael, of the coast of County Kerry, is one I will never forget. This experience encompasses all things I learned and loved about Ireland. I loved the landscapes, which are like none other i have ever seen in the world. More than scenery, more than a pretty picture, I came to understand the importance of the land to the people of Ireland and how intertwined it is with the history.
I loved the people. A fisherman named Michael took us out to the island. His humor, warmth and hospitality were characteristic of so many of the Irish people we met. I also experienced the religion and history of the place in a very real way. Skellig Michael is a World Heritage Site and contains some of the best preserved monastic ruins from dating back to the 5th and 6th century. For the seven of us who made this trip, it was described unanimously as a gift from God.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I was intrigued by the Galway program primarily because of the rural location and the group centered excursions. I had studied Irish poetry and wanted to experience the magnificent landscapes that inspired this writing.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
There is a famous quote from Henry David Thoreau's "Walden" that summarizes my attitude toward my study abroad experience perfectly.
Thoreau says, "I went into the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived...I wanted to live deep and suck out all the marrow of life."
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
I have new found confidence, independence and ambition. What I learned most in Ireland was to push myself everyday because everyday abroad was a once in a lifetime experience. Since I have been back, I have been making a sincere effort to incorporate this kind of thinking into my life at home. Everyday here is an opportunity too. Every person I met has the same potential to impact my life, if I am open to it and welcome them. I aspire to live with the kind of hospitality that I found in Ireland, and that reminds me so much of the Benedictine sisters here on campus.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
Take every opportunity. When you can, climb higher. Get to know your group, they are the only ones who will share this experience with you. Talk to everyone you can. Get involved in the community if you can. Make connections. Look up family members. Learn as much as you can before you leave. Keep learning when you get there. Don't get caught up in talking to people at home. Go on adventures. Do something new everyday.
Do you have questions about studying abroad in Galway? You can email Margaret at mmniebur@csbsju.edu