Ireland trip available through Global Distinction program

By: Mike Gavin
Published: October 11, 2019

Have you ever wanted to experience the culture, history and beauty of the Emerald Isle? A new program at Isothermal can give you that chance.

The Global Distinction program, which started at Isothermal Community College this fall, is planning a trip to Ireland from March 28 to April 7, 2020.
The study abroad opportunity is in conjunction with the Institute of Study Abroad Ireland.
“If you’ve never traveled widely, this is a good first trip,” said Matthew Humphries, the Isothermal English instructor who is coordinating the program. “There’s no language barrier and the Irish are very friendly people who like visitors.”
Humphries said the focus of the trip will be Irish culture and history from medieval times through the modern era, highlighting some of the country’s social movements.
“There will be opportunities for a lot of fun activities like surfing and golfing, but every day includes some sort of activity linked to the local culture and history,” said Humphries. “One of the visits I’m excited about is Trinity College and its campus. I think it will be very interesting to see and learn about some of these traditions that have endured.”
Maria Bivins, an Isothermal Spanish instructor, will be the other faculty member on the trip.
The trip is open to Isothermal students, faculty and staff along with interested members of the community.
Isothermal students will need to take a humanities class in International Cultural Exploration to be able to go on the trip. Members of the community and Isothermal employees who want to go will take a parallel course in the college’s Continuing Education Department.
Both courses begin in January and will lead students through all of the trip preparation including the application process for a passport.
The trip is limited to people aged 18 and older with some exceptions for existing Isothermal students.
The cost for the trip is $3,000 plus the cost of the Isothermal class, passport fees for those who need one and spending money while on the trip. That includes airfare, lodging, two meals per day, activities and ISAI classes. Any additional food, beverage and spending money will be the responsibility of the participant. Partial financial aid may be available.
The deadline to sign up is Wednesday, Oct. 30. A $100 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a spot. The remaining payments must be made on a periodic schedule leading up to the trip.
The Institute for Study Abroad Ireland is located in Donegal on the country’s famous “Wild Atlantic Way.” Activities for the trip will include engaging lectures supported by field trips and cultural activities. More information may be found at https://isaireland.com

Category: Spindale Campus

Keywords: Global Distinction