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Within the first weeks of classes, the differences in the education systems in the United States versus Ireland became very apparent. As finals week approaches, I would like to discuss these differences I saw throughout my term at the University of Galway.
The first thing I noticed is that everything is overall more laid-back here. This became apparent before classes even began when we were told that registration opens the morning of the first day of the term. This was a huge shock to me because at Drexel, I am used to registering for classes a month in advance. However, classes are much harder to get into back home. I had no issues getting a spot in my classes at the University of Galway, and I cannot always say the same at Drexel.
Another difference is the grade breakdown of my Irish classes versus my ones back home. Back home, there are several different grades entering the gradebook that all work to take the pressure off big exam grades. That is not the case at the University of Galway where all but one of my classes’ grade breakdowns consists of just a midterm and/or final exam or paper. This was definitely stressful going into the term, but I also noticed that professors in Ireland are much clearer with what they are looking for and what they are testing us on. Also, a similarity is that professors are just as approachable here as they are at Drexel, so don’t be afraid to reach out for any questions or guidance!
The final difference I’d like to discuss is that it is standard for Irish students to commute to university. At the University of Galway, all the major buildings are lined with lockers where students are able to store their stuff during the day since most do not live right next to campus. Also, if a student does not live close to Galway, it is normal for them to rent a room in the city for the weekdays and go back home on weekends. This was very interesting to see, as it also affects the vibes of the city depending on the day. On weekdays, Galway feels like a college town, and you will see students everywhere, whereas on weekends, the city feels more touristy, as all the students are gone.
All this to say, I observed many differences in the education system and campus living during my time in Ireland. And while it was different, it was a enriching and valuable experience being inside an international classroom.
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