Arcadia Ireland

Fáilte go hÉireann, where our summer students embarked on an exciting and enriching Orientation Week! This week was as much about having fun as it was about learning practical and cultural matters. We often say that a good orientation sets students up for success, and the three days we spent together certainly supported this belief, allowing initial bonds to form. Summer often fosters an even stronger sense of community among students, and this year was no exception.

We kicked off the festivities with a classic "explore Dublin" exercise. This activity not only helped students discover the city's iconic landmarks, such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Stephen's Green, but also fostered teamwork and camaraderie.

After the scavenger hunt, we gathered for a hearty lunch at our longtime favorite, Luigi Malones. We've been bringing students to this beloved Dublin restaurant for over twenty years. Known for its delicious pizza, it provided the perfect setting for a satisfying meal. With full bellies and reassured minds from the health and safety updates, students were ready to grab their bags and move into their new homes for the summer. Following lunch, students had some free time to explore Dublin on their own, visiting museums, shopping on Grafton Street, or simply soaking in the city's lively atmosphere.

Day two was all about embracing Ireland's rich sporting culture. Students arrived in their athleisure wear, ready to dive into the world of Gaelic games. We headed to a Gaelic Games experience center  facility where professional coaches introduced us to the exhilarating sports of Hurling and Gaelic football. These traditional Irish games are fast-paced and full of excitement, providing a perfect way for students to get active and have fun.

After working up an appetite, we enjoyed a delicious pizza lunch. During the meal, we had engaging talks about Irish culture, including quirky terms like "slagging" (friendly teasing) and "craic" (fun and good times). These discussions provided valuable insights into the local way of life and helped students feel more connected to their new surroundings.

The final part of our orientation was dedicated to admiring Ireland's natural beauty. We traveled to the picturesque fishing village of Howth, just a short distance from Dublin. From there, we embarked on a scenic cruise, offering stunning views of the coastline and the opportunity to see Ireland's Eye, a small uninhabited island with a rich history.

After the cruise, our students felt more settled and ready to start their academic journey of Science, Internships and lots more. Those attending classes in Limerick were transported to their new home, where they would continue their studies and exploration of Ireland. The orientation week successfully equipped our students with a sense of familiarity and confidence as they prepared to dive into their summer programs.