Siobahn Dodds

Siobahn Dodds is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Galway, Ireland.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.

It is hard to explain but the Irish demeanor is the one thing that had a lasting impression on me. Their mentality about life and not taking anything to seriously is very intriguing especially because one of the main reasons the Irish are like this is because of their brutal history and they way society decided to cope was to be carefree and not take life too seriously. I miss this, a lot.

Why did you choose the program in which you participated? 

I chose the Galway program because it was in the fall and because of my Irish heritage. It has always been a goal of mine to go to Ireland.

Describe your overall study abroad experience.

My experience forced me to challenge myself in a different culture with people that I didn't know and it was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had and probably ever will have.

How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?

I have grown academically and experienced personal growth. I matured a great amount while abroad and learned things about myself that I didn't know. Being that far away from home forces you to really look at yourself and discover who you are and who you want to become.

What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?

Let yourself become emerged into the culture and don't hold back you might miss something on the way.