My good friend Taryn is the President and Founder of the Irish Life Experience, a four-week study abroad program for American and Canadian teenagers in Ireland that emphasizes culture, education, travel, and fun. Taryn works really hard to ensure each student's experience is both unique and unforgettable. Students are introduced to Ireland's welcoming and friendly people, magical and beautiful landscape, and rich heritage and tradition, all of which is celebrated through structured classes and tours.
Taryn has been to Ireland over 20 times and has lived in Newry, No. Ireland, as well as International, Kyrgyzstan. She started traveling at a very early age and has been to a total of eleven countries including: Austria, France, Italy, Kazakhstan, Germany, Russia, Scotland, Switzerland and Uzbekistan.
I've got a few nieces and nephews who have the travel bug and I wanted to get the scoop on teens traveling abroad - and thought that you may want the skinny too ...
Why is studying abroad so beneficial?
Studying abroad is really an adventure where learning extends beyond the classroom walls and pages of a textbook. There is no substitute for studying abroad if you want to gain in-depth knowledge of another culture's customs, history, language, and people.
Students are challenged to break out of their comfort zones and immerse themselves in a new culture, which can really be life transforming. While it's very hard for students to be away from home, adjusting to a new country, it's also forever rewarding - an experience that will keep giving back long after they return to the States.
Students who study abroad are exposed to new ways of thinking. They will make new friends and many return home with such a great sense of confidence and a broader understanding and appreciation as well for the United States.
What are some things to think about when living/visiting in a different culture?
Always be respectful. There is often a stereotype overseas that Americans are self-absorbed and inconsiderate. Realize that Americans are not always liked by other cultures, so be aware and be cautious not to talk about politics or sensitive subjects.
Do your research - know what regions of a country are safe to visit and make certain you don't travel to volatile areas. The State Department website is a great tool in researching countries to make sure they are safe.
Definitely try new things and immerse yourself in the culture, traditions, food and people. Have an open mind!
What should I bring with me when traveling to other countries?
This is what I have in my carry-on bag: A camera, contacts and emergency numbers, a copy of your passport with the address where you will be staying (I would recommend putting this in all of your suitcases-in case you lose your passport), a good book, detergent, a granola bar or some snacks, iPod, a journal, a phone that can be used in the country you're traveling to, a spare night of clothes (in case your luggage gets lost), and a travel book of what country you are visiting. (Lonely Planet has great travel books)
I rarely bring toiletries, because you can find pretty much everything you need in the countries you are visiting. No need to take up unnecessary space in your luggage!
Make sure to put any of your liquids in plastic bags, so they don't explode while traveling. I also bring an extra bag for bringing souvenirs home. You never know what treasures you will come across during your travels.
Do you suggest visiting other countries over the weekends? Why?
Definitely! If your program allows it and after you have explored the country where you are living/studying to its potential, than I highly recommend traveling to other countries. If you are living in Europe, it's so accessible and affordable to travel to other countries, so definitely try to take advantage of the opportunity if it's available.
What's your favorite thing about Ireland?
I love everything from the beautiful lush rolling green hills and pastures, the castles, the history, the Gaeltacht areas, the traditional music, to the warm and welcoming people.
It's such a special country that people immediately feel at home in...
What are some key questions to ask a study abroad program?
Safety:
What rules are in place for the students?
How are the students supervised?
What is the Emergency Evacuation Plan?
Do you do background checks on the Staff?
If my child has a connecting flight, will there be someone there to meet them?What if my child gets sick?
What about Medical Insurance?
Finance:
Does the Program have a payment plan?
Does the Program have a Travel Insurance Plan?
If my child withdraws from the program, is all of the money refunded?
General:
Does the Program have references?
How can get in contact with my child abroad?
How old are the staff members and are they trained?
What is the Student Staff Ratio?
What if my child has to come home?
Where do the students stay?
Submit Your Feedback