Spending my summer with Connect-123 abroad in Ireland was incredibly rewarding. Not only was I able to make lifelong friends that I know I will keep in contact for years to come, but I also was able to learn and thrive in a different work environment, country, and culture where I grew truly independent and wish I never had to leave from. I miss working for the marketing company and I miss living in Dublin. This is definitely something someone should try who wants to study abroad but can’t afford to miss a semester a school. Along with real work experience, I was able to travel all over Ireland and get to know the country and its people like the back of my hand. I was also able to affordably travel outside of Ireland, and see more of Europe and what this part of the world has to offer. Connect-123 has some amazing coordinators too. My program coordinator was also always the biggest help and a friend whenever we needed it most. I can’t wait to plan my trip back to Ireland and revisit the country that gave me not only a once in a lifetime opportunity, but a love for a place other than my own home.