Hi, my name is Pat Ryan and I am from Albany, New York. Unlike many incoming college students, I had never given the prospect of "studying abroad" much thought. Of course, I've always wanted to see Europe, but I've only traveled outside of America once (and that was for a mere 48 hours). In addition, I enjoy Cornell immensely (member of Sigma Pi Fraternity and Vice President of SHRM) and enjoy being able to visit my girlfriend and family whenever I desire. However, a chance conversation with a peer who was part of the inaugural ILR/UCD Semester Abroad led me to the course I am currently on.

           
            My peer, Josh Teitler, told me about the endless academic and social benefits the program affords students. This led me to find out more information from Brigid Beachler and Professor Daniel. The more information I received about the program the less I could resist seizing the opportunity to "study abroad." Plus, it doesn't hurt that I am nearly 100% Irish and had the prospect of spending time in Ireland  near the top of my early bucket list. What reaffirms my choice is the fact that any time I mention my decision to any person who has studied abroad in their lifetime I am met with nearly the same response, "it was the best, most memorable part of my college experience."

 
            Clearly, one of my personal goals I am hoping to achieve through the ILR/UCD Semester in Dublin Program is to immerse myself in the Irish Culture and Countryside. I believe this is a once in a chance lifetime to gain a comprehensive perspective on where my ancestors came from. I am also looking forward to working with peers who are of a different background than most Cornellians. And, of course, I cannot wait to visit many of the European attractions that are among the most famous in the world. It seems like a day doesn't pass without thoughts running through my head of the places I want to visit in Europe. While I do not believe I will be able to spend 3 months of my life in Europe again, I know it will not be nearly enough time to satiate my tourist hunger.

 
            While I have not touched on it yet, a major component in my decision to partake in the ILR/UCD Program is the academic opportunity it presents. I believe the chance to study European industrial relations in Europe will be invaluable in my life. The European Union has been thriving nearly since its inception and I believe it is built around a model that the world will attempt to emulate in the future. I am also looking forward to the different methods of instruction that I will receive in UCD. In short, I truly cannot wait for the personal, social, and academic prospects of the ILR/UCD Semester in Dublin Program.

 

 

- Patrick Ryan