Bucknell In Northern Ireland -- Alumni Perspectives

Alumni Perspectives

BUNI 2003 Perspectives

Jocelyn Dautel admires Northern Antrim Coast, 2003.

"Northern Ireland was an amazing, eye-opening experience. The history, sociology, and psychology of the conflict all come together with real-life accounts in the field placements. It was an emotional and intellectual journey that I will always take with me in future experiences."

Jocelyn Dautel '05 (Bucknell in Northern Ireland, '03)

Katie Breitenbach and Jennifer Perrin model the Giant's Boot at the Giant's Causeway, 2003.

"Through my experience in the Program I have learned that Northern Ireland is not only a beautiful landscape, but also a collection of people historically, politically and socially rich with a spirit of culture and community that is both unique and extraordinary. I am thankful for the opportunity to explore the intricacies of this community, its distinct historical foundation, its complex political infrastructure, and its strong social value. For me, this trip has been as much a moving intellectual and emotional challenge as it has been a fun, exciting, once-in-a-life-time kind of adventure. Gratefully, my perspective of the world, and perception of its people will never quite be the same."

Katie Breitenbach '05, (Bucknell in Northern Ireland, '03, TA for '04)

Sara Bradley after crossing the Carrick-a-Reded Rope Bridge, 2003.

"What sets the Bucknell in Northern Ireland program apart from other study abroad programs is that this program is much more than simply taking classes in a foreign culture. I was astounded by the unique opportunities that were offered to us during the three weeks. We had the ability to meet and talk with people integral to recent Northern Irish history who were all very cordial and open to sharing their experiences with us. We were introduced to community leaders who continue to shape the peace process today. Through a network of students interacting in different rganizations, we could listen to the stories of several people and how they deal with their pasts and present. In addition, we could discover all aspects of the culture and countryside by simply walking through the city or exploring in a car. Even the Northern Irish I spoke to agreed that this program gives us so many wonderful opportunities that even they do not get. If given the chance, I would return in a heartbeat."

Sara Bradley '04 (Bucknell in Northern Ireland, '03)

Melissa Milanak overlooks Magilligan Point, 2003

"It is one of the most intense, exciting, and enlightening experiences that I have ever had. It gave me a chance to study abroad and further my research and academics that would not have been feasible during the regular academic year. I not only learned about the conflict and the Northern Irish culture, but about myself. Words cannot properly describe the impact and influence that this experience has had on my life."

Melissa Milanak '03, Teaching Assistant, BUNI'02/'03

BUNI 2002 Perspectives

Jennifer Wrigley and Ashley Pietrefesa, Greencastle, Co. Donegal, 2002

"The Bucknell in Northern Ireland program was a life-changing, eye-and-heart-opening experience. It was a journey through the history of the Troubles, with each event and activity building on and giving meaning to the previous ones. I didn't grasp until the conclusion of the trip how much information and understanding I had gained ... It transformed me intellectually and emotionally, and I really feel that I am a better person because I participated in and experienced it. I would definitely do it again if I had a chance."

Ashley Pietrefesa, '04 (Bucknell in Northern Ireland '02)

Nicole Chabot, Spencer Nichols, Melissa Milanak, Katy Troester, and Jennifer Foster, Carnlough, Co. Antrim, 2002

"Overall, I think the program was great. I learned so much more than I ever expected to ... Going to Northern Ireland was the best experience of my life. It gave me a new perspective that I couldn't have gotten at Bucknell."

Katy Troester, '04 (Bucknell in Northern Ireland, '02)

Josh Cuppett (sleeping, foreground) and fellow Bucknellians on the AIRporter bus, headed somewhere in Northern Ireland, 2002

"If you're looking for an experience that will forever change your view of both people and the world, visit Northern Ireland. Collectively, I've found the people of Northern Ireland to be welcoming, generous, and curious. While the landscape bears a slight resemblance to the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, I was taken aback by the castles, ruins, and historic buildings blended into both the countryside and the cityscapes. You'll get all of the highpoints on this trip, taking in many of the famous landmarks, and hearing from the most recognized authorities on the conflict and current state of affairs. I never thought I'd learn, experience, help, connect, or grow so much in a three-week period."

Josh Cuppett, '03 (Bucknell in Northern Ireland, '02)