Hello, my name is Thomas Lehmkuhl, and I am a sophomore majoring in political science and history with a minor in religious studies. This year, I am studying at University College Cork in Cork, Ireland, during both the fall and spring semesters. Though my program in Cork is not yet complete, I am certain this will be a transformative experience that will leave a lasting impact on my academic pursuits and outlook on life.

Taking courses at a university abroad has offered me a remarkable opportunity to expose myself to perspectives and information that aren’t available in Iowa. For example, this year, I’ve had the chance to select from a wide array of classes on Irish history, politics, and the European Union that I might not have explored otherwise. Besides the course material being different from what’s offered at the University of Iowa, studying abroad has introduced me to an entirely new academic culture and educational structure compared to what I was familiar with in the United States. While this was initially, and still is, a stressful transition, it has allowed me to learn in a different way. I’ve discovered that the Irish system is much more independent and research-oriented, with fewer assignments throughout the semester. With less structure than what I was accustomed to, this year has taught me how to effectively manage my time and thoughtfully engage with independent research, which I consider a fantastic life skill.

While academics are an important component of the study abroad experience, my family has continually reminded me throughout my time in Ireland that coursework is only part of studying abroad. I’ve found that as much as I have learned in my classes this year, I’ve learned just as much, if not more, from my experiences meeting people local to Cork and traveling within Europe. I found while abroad, it’s often easier to meet and travel with other exchange students. However, even if it’s a little intimidating, it is absolutely worth the effort to make friends with local students. Doing this has allowed me to immerse myself further in the local culture and create a community of friends unique to Cork. It’s also allowed me to travel to parts of Ireland I likely would not have seen without a car, like the countryside in County Kerry.

The most challenging (but also most exciting) thing about being abroad is traveling solo. If it is safe to do so, I highly suggest others take at least one solo trip while studying abroad. It is great fun to travel in a group of friends to a new destination. However, I have found I became a far more confident and independent person this year because of the responsibility and agency I have when planning and completing a trip alone. 

"Studying for a semester or a year abroad is an opportunity not often available in life, and traveling to new destinations is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore your passions and discover a new sense of identity."

This may sound cliché but sitting alone with your thoughts while waiting in an airport, drinking coffee alone in a park, or wandering aimlessly along the canals in Amsterdam all offer a unique chance for you to reflect and think about your life up to this point. I cannot recommend solo travel enough; I think it’s so important to self-discovery while studying abroad (and you don’t have to negotiate what museums and restaurants you go to with other people).

Studying in Cork, Ireland, has given me so many new experiences to learn from and value. Cork has been a lovely city to spend the last six months in. The people here are incredibly welcoming and friendly, and there is a ton of history to explore alongside the seemingly endless restaurants, pubs, and cafes. The city itself is large enough, there’s always something going on, but it still has a comfortable smaller city feel. Studying abroad has ultimately taught me a great deal about finding balance. It’s been important to me that I do well and focus on my academics; however, I think it’s essential to explore new places and have fun while being abroad. In line with this desire to find balance between “work” and “relaxation,” I have become far more efficient and mindful of my time, leaving me with skills that will be useful throughout my life. While doing a one-semester program still offers terrific experiences, I am really glad I decided to do both semesters in Cork. It has allowed me to settle into the culture and environment of Ireland much more thoroughly and allowed me to establish more lasting relationships with students and professors at my university. 

"While it can be stressful to be away from home for such a long period, I think extended time amplifies many of the benefits of studying abroad — allowing you to relax and enjoy the local culture without the rush to get home."

I have learned so much about myself and the new people and places I have encountered throughout my time abroad. I have absolutely no regrets about my decision to study abroad, and I would recommend it to anyone who can do so. 

The Global Access Ambassador Scholarship program provides awards to study abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year. The scholarships are intended to support students who study abroad with the intent to serve as Global Access Ambassadors upon return to the UI campus. Upon completion of the study abroad program and return to UI, award recipients are asked to submit a photo and an open letter to prospective students or suggest an alternate means of sharing with prospective students.

Please note that the opinions and views expressed by ambassadors are solely those of the students and do not reflect or represent the views of International Programs or the University of Iowa.

International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.