#MoreThanAGame: BC Students' Perspective on Ireland

Boston College and Ireland have a tremendous bond that goes back to the the University's founding and its mission to help educate lower-income children of Irish heritage.

Students who either are currently studying in Ireland or who have recently studied or interned in Ireland through Boston College programs explain why the Aer Lingus College Football Classic is so important and what their favorite parts of their stays in the Emerald Isle were.

Megan Greeley M'16
Studied at BC programs last summer in Ireland
How important is the Aer Lingus Football Classic to Ireland in your opinion? "I think it's really exciting because sport is such a big part of Irish culture. I think it's going to be such an exciting atmosphere with a school that's so proudly Irish and that did so much with the Irish community in Boston when it was originally founded, all based on its original mission to educate the sons of Irish immigrants. I think to bring this American cultural experience back to the homeland of our founders and our students is such an amazing and cool, fun connection to make!"

Hayley Folkard '16
Interned at the Coeliac Society of Ireland
What was your favorite thing about Ireland? "It's a very lively country and you can feel that life and that pride no matter where you are which I love. The endless live music and beer doesn't hurt either."

Katie Murphy '17
Studying at University College Dublin now
What is your favorite thing about Ireland?: "My favorite thing about Ireland so far is always having a new adventure to go on, with new place to go and see. Being able to travel around such a beautiful country has been an amazing opportunity."

Justin Cwieka '17
Studied at University College Dublin in Fall 2015
What was your favorite thing about Ireland?: "My favorite thing about Ireland so far has to be the people. Anyone you meet, whether it be an Irish classmate or a random old man in a pub, is genuinely interested in talking to you and getting to know you. Without the slightest bit of exaggeration, every single Irish person I have spoken with has been nothing but welcoming, overwhelmingly friendly, and genuine. Everyone has a bit of wisdom to share and a story to tell. The Irish truly know how to have a good conversation and a good time. Although the country is absolutely beautiful and there are so many incredible things to do here, the people truly make Ireland a unique place that I'm proud to call my temporary 'home away from home'."

Colleen Sheridan '17
Studied at NUI Galway in Fall 2015
What was your favorite thing about Ireland?: "The people. I have found the Irish people to be so friendly and welcoming. It's a great social atmosphere here in Galway and like they say it's a lot of craic!"

Bobby Looney '17
Interned at DCU Ryan Academy in Summer 2015
What was your favorite thing about Ireland?: "I think my favorite part about Ireland so far has been the people I have interacted with from Ireland. Whether it is the people I work with, my taxi driver, or a man who taps me on the shoulder on the bus, everybody is super nice and wants to have a genuine conversation with you. They offer tips on where to go in the city, show me how to get from Point A to Point B, and don't treat me like an ill-informed tourist (even though I am one). I've been really happy that the native Irish men and women have been so warm and welcoming towards me."

Jillian McCord '16
Interned at The Little Museum of Dublin in Summer 2015
What was your favorite thing about Ireland?: "I really like the atmosphere and the people. Everyone is proud to be Irish, yet so accepting and welcoming."

Boston College Athletics

#MoreThanAGame: BC Students' Perspective on Ireland

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