Name: Danielle Fortin
Status: Senior
Major: Zoology
Hometown: Grand Blanc, Michigan
Program: The Horse Industry of Ireland and Northern Ireland
One of my favorite things about this study abroad program was that in addition to learning about the horse industry, we were given the freedom to be tourists too. We rode past Castle Leslie on horseback and crossed the Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, a rope suspension bridge that was 66 feet long and 98 feet above the water. Each step I took forward swung the bridge under my feet, with every sway and swing of the bridge my heart galloped faster. I could see for miles in every direction, either the water or rolling green hills covered in tiny yellow flowers. The water crashed against the rocks below me with sea birds gliding almost along its surface.
Having the opportunity to interact with the people of Ireland was one of my favorite parts of my study abroad experience. I was aware of the stereotypes other countries have of Americans and worried that the people would not be very welcoming when they found out I was American. However, the people were very interested to learn I was from the United States and always wanted to know which state I was from. I also enjoyed learning about their history and legends.
While learning about the country's rich history, I encountered people who told stories of the country from before the written word. Some of the folklore they related included strong beliefs in the existence of fairies, to the extent that certain areas believed to be inhabited by fairies were off-limits to development. There is one instance where an entire road was diverted to avoid destroying a tree believed to be home to a fairy. Knowing the legends of the places we visited made it even more fun to visit them. Before getting to actually visit Giant's Causeway, we were told about the legend behind how such a spectacular landmark was created.
This program allowed me to go beyond what I had learned in textbooks and actually experience the horse industry abroad. I was able to learn firsthand from people that worked in industries like racing, showing and breeding. This program was a perfect fit for me because I love to keep a busy schedule and we always had something to do.