Connect-123 gave me the opportunity to try something that I didn’t think I would be able to do while still in college. As a nursing major, I only see the clinical side of healthcare, where Connect gave me the opportunity I had wanted to try research. I learned so much and met some amazing people at the research lab where I worked, and have been able to apply the new skills and knowledge that I have gained into my studies. They made it so easy right from the beginning, from finding housing and figuring out what documents I needed to travel, to getting a phone and making sure I was comfortable traveling to work. I felt fully supported and prepared for everything that came my way. I met such an amazing group of people, who made exploring Dublin, and the rest of Ireland, much more fun. Whether it was hiking the trails in the coastal towns, grabbing a bite to eat, checking out a local festival or event, or exploring Galway or Belfast, there was always someone who was excited to go with you. The Connect community, especially the program coordinator Nikki, couldn’t have been nicer or more welcoming. She knew exactly how overwhelming a new and foreign city can be, but she helped make Dublin feel like home right away. She always made sure we were getting the most out of our internship experiences all while planning fun events and showing us the less touristy side of Dublin. I can’t recommend Connect-123 more and I already cant wait to visit this wonderful city again