University of Notre Dame (ND)

Before studying abroad I definitely had a set of cultural stereotypes of what American University life would be like. This was mostly fuelled by cheap movies and bad television sit-coms. In reality, I found the students there very similar to the students at home, and while I though I would be able to teach them more about Irish culture than I would learn about American culture, it was exactly the opposite. So I think, if I could do it all again, I would not come with a fixed idea of waht Americans are like- you will only get proved wrong time and time again. having a room mate for the first time was something I was not looking forward to. However, over two years on, I still consider her as one of my dearest friends. Having a "native" as a room mate is really important as it forces you to meet new people all the time and increase your circle of friends. Also, American students tend to come with their own TV, stereo system, hair dryers, cds etc, which are great to borrow instead of having to buy your own, and then hope to sell them a year later. If I could do it all again, I would readjust my "beer budget" to have more cash in my "travel budget". If you want to drink beer, stay at home and drink beer, its all the same. While I was at Notre Dame, I partied alot, but when it came to travel I had to scrimp and save to get the money together.

I loved Notre Dame for a variety of reasons. Thye had an 80,000 seater stadium on campus, we don't even have one in Ireland. They have an olympic sized swimming pool on campus, we don't even have one in Ireland. Everything from the educational, to the social and spiritual experience was something I didn't expect. There was not a day when I didn't want to get up out of bed, and go to class. I met some of the greatest people I will ever meet during my year, and although I was at Notre Dame for only one year, I consider myself a "Domer" just like all the graduates.

I did not have much information about the practical aspects of my stay before going (accomodation, choice of classes...), therefore I was a little worried. Actually I only had good surprises (nice appartment, good choice of courses...) but I would have been more serene knowing all that before arriving in the US.

The quality of instruction was good, the university has a lot of facilities, it is quite simple to go from there to Chicago, which is a beautiful town, and the local students are really willing to help.

Should have focused more on my career interests before joining the MBA program

Good school,many types of events going on at all times; great football games on campus and one of the largest alumni networks in the world

Because it was a great opportunity to meet other students (both American and international students) and to live with an American roommate with whom I got along very well. Besides, it was quite cheap and the accomodation was nice.