By By Brian Bohl

Along the west coast of Ireland, is a hidden paradise with summer temperatures that rarely exceeds 70 degrees. In the Galway the climate seems like a divine gift, affording the visitors of the small town the chance to indulge in its entire splendor.

With a population of less than 70,000, the old European city boasts one of the continent’s oldest remaining medieval church, St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, along with Renaissance style architecture

Besides being the only city in the province of Connacht, Galway also was the home for the summer study abroad program for the University’s philosphy and religion departments. The excursion to the Emerald Isle affored students many opportunites not available with traditional courses offered.

“I took Introduction to Ethics and Mysticism and the Spiritual Quest,” Bernie Lopez, a senior business management major, said. “It was my first trip to Ireland and I am so glad I ended up going with the group of individuals that participated in the program.”

Four classes were offered, including Elementary Gaelic and Philosophy of Religion. The Gaelic 001 course was particularly unique and it was taught by native professors Warren Frisina and Terry Godlove, both from the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies.

“I never went to Ireland before, but I’ve always been a big fan of their literature and culture,” said Godlove.

Despite being over 5,000 miles from their home campus, students still experienced dorm life. They stayed at the Galway campus of the National University of Ireland.

“The students stayed in the dorms at the school, which they liked a lot,” Godlove said. “The only bad thing was the dorms were not wired for the internet. It was difficult not to e-mail.”

That small inconvenience did not detract from the experience for Lopez, who said he first decided to enroll in the program after talking with his professors. In addition to the unique educational opportunities, the ability to enjoy the nightlife in a different country also proved to be an invaluable experience.

“My favorite experience by far was the pub life,” said Lopez. “The culture is amazing. The way I describe it to people is to imagine yourself walking around in New York City and every third person wants to have a conversation with you. You can sit at the bar and talk to the locals with no problem. They are just as interested in what you have to say then you interested in what they’re going to say. They really truly become your friend.”

The enjoyment of the local drinking establishments did not go unnoticed by the faculty.

“We have to find students that maybe won’t stay out so late, and maybe like a little less Guinness,” Godlove said.

The close proximity to other European nations allowed students the opportunity to visit countries like England, Italy and Norway on the weekends. Airfare to those different locations was affordable and allowed enough time to enjoy sightseeing without missing any class time. Some students went as far as Oslo, Norway, for less than $20.

“I went to Italy on a Thursday and came back Sunday night,” said Lopez. “I saw Rome, Venice and Florence. The last four days of the trip I was in London, it was cool to be able to see the Globe Theater and many other sights.”

The Ireland program was the first time the University sponsored the trip, and after its success, it will available next year.

“We will run it again next year at least,” said Godlove. “My only regret is that I won’t be able to go again in the near future so other professors in the department can go.”

Ireland´s Past (Courtesy of CIA.gov)

(Brian Bohl/The Chronicle)

(Brian Bohl/The Chronicle)