University of Auckland students have the opportunity to study at two partner universities in Ireland: Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin.
Let’s hear what our students have to say…
Dublin was an amazing place to be. The pub culture is great and provides an opportunity to experience Dublin from a local’s perspective. The people were so friendly and welcoming and the university provided so many great opportunities to see the rest of Ireland.
– Tara, University College Dublin
Heading into Dublin is a very different than Auckland. Everybody is so friendly and curious about your foreign accent. They don’t call it the land of a thousand welcomes for nothing.
– Conor, University College Dublin
Immediately from stepping foot in the airport to getting off the bus on the UCD campus the people in Ireland were incredibly friendly and welcoming. Everyone I met was happy and willing to help me find my way and share a bit of ‘craic’.
– Jolene, University College Dublin
The Auckland 360 programme had not only given me the opportunity to experience a different way of living and a different way of learning, it also allowed me to travel to different countries, make life long friends, and countless unforgettable memories.
– Loretta, University College Dublin
Dublin is a magnificent place to be. Nominated as the friendliest city in the world, the Irish capital certainly lives up its expectation for providing a magical experience both day and night. Although it’s not always sunshine in Ireland, the Irish people have the warmest heart. If you feel lost, don’t be shy to talk to them because they are always eager to help you out.
– Chris, University College Dublin
Overall, Dublin was an amazing exchange destination and this whole journey was one I am so thankful for and will never forget. I have made life long friends from all over the world, have had some truly incredible experiences, and have been lucky enough to find another place to call home.
– Charlotte, University College Dublin
A highlight was the wide range of extracurricular activities offered by both the University and student led clubs. These ranged from Irish cultural events such as traditional Irish dancing tutorials and free walking tours of Dublin, to Super Bowl parties and trips around Ireland.
– Phillip, University College Dublin
Ireland in general is a beautiful country with so much to do. During my exchange, I managed to explore most of the country, as well as Northern Ireland. Each city/town has plenty of pride and their own quirks to share. From the Blarney Castle in Cork, to the Peace Walls in Belfast, there was always something unique and fun to do. The scenery across the country is stunning, with endless history embedded in the breathtaking views. Public transport between main cities is cheap and easy, and a friendly local is always willing to point out the best spots over a pint at the local pub! Dublin, itself, is such a fun and lively city. With a large population of students, especially international students, there is plenty going on at all times. In the city centre there is always live music, sporting games, themed parties and numerous other events, so there really is something for everyone. The Guinness factory as well as the whiskey museum are two definite must dos!
– Jolene, University College Dublin
Life in Ireland was relatively similar to life in Auckland. As they say ‘Ireland is the New Zealand of the Northern Hemisphere.’ The beautiful landscapes and green hills of the countryside, Ireland was everything I had expected and more.
– Loretta, University College Dublin
Arriving in Dublin was cold, yes, but more importantly, exciting. I had already heard great things about the people, but I didn’t realise how buzzing and lively it would really be. I fell in love with the city and how different it felt to Auckland. There was always something on and something to do, even if it was just going down to the pub to have a Guinness and a bit of ‘craic’ with the locals.
– Charlotte, University College Dublin
Another highlight for me was that Dublin is a historical city, offering several free museums and galleries. Especially significant was that my exchange coincided with the centenary of the Easter Rising so not only did I get to celebrate a “typical” Irish St Patrick’s Day but I was also able to see several historic events and re-enactments.
– Phillip, University College Dublin
My advice to future students would be to not let any fears or worries prevent you from going on an exchange. It’s okay to be afraid, it’s a scary decision living in another country by yourself. But it is an unforgettable experience and as clichéd as it sounds you truly will not regret it.
– Tara, University College Dublin
The 360 International Blog 