Studying in Ireland

While I am studying in Ireland I am not actually attending classes at a university. The way the program is set up is the professors come to us at Park Lodge where we are living. Each week on different days we have class for a solid four hours. This is something I am not used to. Back in the states my longest class is two hours long. Luckily we get a a break half way to grab a quick lunch and to break up the four hours. Although the four hours does seem to fly by most days. Irish culture, history, and language is quite interesting. 

Earlier this week we had a special guest come in for Irish culture and teach us how to play the Irish Penny whistle. It reminded me of playing the recorder when I was in fifth grade. We started out with with playing some basic tunes such as Mary had a little lamb and twinkle twinkle little star. After we mastered these(fairly quickly) we moved on the learning some Irish polkas. Since polkas are more complex and played at a more rapid pace we didn't master these right away. After some practice this week though I think next class we will be able to play two polkas. This class was by far one of my funnest and memorable classes. It's nice to actually participate in the Irish culture instead of just being informed about it. Next week we also get to learn an Irish dance and I can't wait! 

Each of the professors keep all the classes interesting in their own way. For example for history class last week we actually met in a pub, but not just any pub. We met at the historical Kings Head in Galway. It was a great chance to get out of the classroom. Also being in and seeing what you're learning about enhances the learning experience. 

I know it doesn't always seem like I'm going to school while I'm here. I swear it's not a three month vacation. By the end of the program I won't be fluent in Irish but I will know how to say  basic phrases and talk about myself, I will have knowledge about Irish history, know how to play the penny whistle, know an Irish dance or two, and I will not only have read books and poems by Irish authors but I will also know about the authors themselves. This truly is a great learning experience and by far one of the best ways to learn.