Study Abroad Opportunities: English Department Student and Faculty Visit Ireland
In summer 2025, English students traveled abroad to Ireland, where they stopped in Bundoran, Belfast, and Dublin to learn about Irish cultures, narratives, and reconciliation. Senior Lecturer Dustin Crawford led the program alongside Communications Associate Professor Jason Gilmore.
“We both teach about conflict and reconciliation, and we felt that Ireland would be an important place to visit and to examine how sectarian conflict can arise and be confronted by people in the affected communities,” Dustin says. “We also thought it was an important time for students to see how folklore, literature, and art can be used in peace building efforts during times of conflict.”
Students attended a lecture most mornings by the Institute of Study Abroad Ireland on the history of Irish language, culture, and war. The rest of the day was spent visiting landmarks, such as castles and statues, associated with the lesson or getting out in Ireland’s nature.
“I can’t think of a better way to learn about literature and culture than by spending time in the communities and with the people those works come from,” Dustin reflects. “I think that most learning on the trip occurred through our interactions with people in each place we spent time.”
Ella Stott, English undergraduate student who went on the trip, said the most influential part of her time in Ireland was visiting the Free Derry Museum. “There’s so much history around the world that we don’t know about that’s important for us to know about,” she comments. “Learning about the Derry civil rights movement and from the stories of people who lived during that time was nothing short of completely eye-opening. It’s made me dedicated to considering how we can preserve important stories and history as the next generation of writers.”
In addition to learning about history, students had time to explore Arranmore Island, walk on the cliffs of the Atlantic Ocean, take surfing lessons from local pros, attend a riverdance performance, and eat plenty of fish and chips.
English student Sydney Cox Fraticelli said this immersion was the reason she chose to study abroad: “I have always wanted to travel and see the world while learning about other cultures and lifestyles. Going to Ireland was a dream and unlocked a passion I didn’t know I had. I’m so grateful I did a study abroad and couldn’t suggest it more.”
Students can learn more about study abroad opportunities at the USU Office of Global Engagement Study Abroad webpage.