Melissa Honnold ’25

Program: Ireland Semester

Major: Exercise and Health Science

Minors: Neuroscience

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?

I chose this study abroad program because I love to be outside and I knew Ireland would be a nice mix of city and countryside, and as someone who likes to be outside this was the perfect balance for me. I also heard amazing reviews about the program, so I could not recommend it enough! Ireland was a country I knew I would enjoy for an extended period of time and be comfortable, so I went with it.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your program that made a lasting impression.

I loved getting to meet new friends/people when I was abroad. They taught me so much about their lifestyles, and I was able to learn from them.

Based on your experiences abroad, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

I met so many people from countries outside of Ireland that I will be friends with for a long time! I still continue to talk to them every so often. It has made me a more confident individual and has made me grow as a person.

What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?

Just do it! It’s going to be scary, and you won’t know what will happen, but you will make lifelong friends while having some of the best experiences doing it.