Student: Arika Horner

Status: Sophomore

Major: Equine Management

Hometown: Stockbridge, Michigan

Program: The Horse Industry of Ireland and Northern Ireland

While in Ireland and Northern Ireland I had a blast experiencing a new culture and industry. It was amazing to hear about the many legends and beliefs in Ireland. The luscious and vibrant green landscape, with rolling hills and jagged shorelines, took my breath away. All the buildings are made to last and many of them have been around for a while. The cathedrals are immaculate with their architecture and stained-glass windows. Each of the cathedrals comes with their own history and historical significance. They were all beautiful and breathtaking.

We started our journey by heading to the Ballyhoura Hostel in Limerick. While we were there, we went on a trek, saw an old monastery and castle, visited a Donkey Sanctuary, and visited Killarney and Spike Island. The scenery was beautiful, while in the country side. The fence lines were lined with hedges, showing the start and end of each farm. For the next leg of our program we went to Trinity College in Dunlin. Many of the buildings in the city had unique carvings and architecture. During the day, we toured around the city and even went to Tattersalls. Tattersalls is an international 3-day eventing show. They run Cross Country, Show Jumping, and Dressage at different levels. At night we would go and experience Iris Cuisine. One of our dinners included a show with traditional Irish music and step dancing. The singers and dancers were amazing and moved very gracefully. For the last leg of our journey, we headed off to Northern Ireland for the Grreenmount Campus of CAFRE. Once we entered Northern Ireland, it was amazing to see how the landscape stayed the same, but the people seemed more English than Irish. However, they are still considered to be Irish. We visited a feed store, racing barn veterinary clinic, show grounds, and fitness and rehabilitation center. We also went on our final trek. We even visited private stables in both Ireland and Northern Ireland. Once we headed back to Dublin to head back home, we stopped at a race track and watched the races.

While on this program, I learned how versatile and different the horse industry can be outside of the U.S. I learned about many different opportunities there are in this industry. It hep me see the multiple ways I can enhance and further my career goals.

On a personal level, I met new people and connections. Many of the girls I traveled with on this journey, I would consider my new friends. I learned how to value the earth and what it gives us naturally. I learned to appreciate literature, architecture, and culture even more then I already did. This experience helped me see the potential of my goals and what I an accomplish with the future. The host culture was amazing. Everyone wanted to talk to you and enjoy your company. Everyone was polite and extremely welcoming and gracious.

Before I went on this program, I didn't know any myths about study abroad, and I don't come from a tougher family situation, but I don't believe that matters. This opportunity is all about having an amazing and new experience with other students that have the same interests. It does not matter where you come from or who you hang out with to be on this program. Any student who has an interest in the equine industry or studying abroad will have an amazing journey.

Being on this program is all about enjoying a new experience and culture, anyone who decides to go will have fun and learn new things. I believe other students can relate by just going for it and having an amazing time and experience.

I had an amazing journey and appreciate the opportunity you have given me. This opportunity has given me a new perspective on the world. I can't wait to see how it will influence my future endeavors.