Students in search of a new cultural experience while studying can find exactly that in the upcoming program “Media and Culture in Ireland.”

The program, held from June 24 to July 20, provides an opportunity to earn credit in communication or English while studying abroad.

April Kalal, a senior corporate communication major, took part in last summer’s session and had many uplifting experiences during her trip.

“I always thought that I would travel to Europe after graduation from college, but I never realized that I could go while still a student and receive credit for my classes,” she said.

Although the educational aspect of the trip interested Kalal, Ireland’s culture made the biggest impression. Along with attending classes, Kalal also viewed films and listened to speakers.

“The history and background of Irish culture was fascinating,” Kalal said. “Every day our group got a chance to listen to different Irish authors and playwrights speak that really deepened our interest and understanding of Irish culture.”

Most students who attended the summer session were media students, but Kalal focused mainly on English courses.

“The study abroad program in Ireland is great for students interested in media studies because we got a chance to view short films and talk to the playwrights, etc., but the exciting part for me was just learning about Ireland’s history and getting to know the people there,” Kalal said.

One issue aroused strong emotions in her.

“The conflict between the Catholics and Protestants in Ireland is an ongoing issue that many people always hear about, but getting the information firsthand from the people there was quite an emotional experience for me that I won’t soon forget,” Kalal said.

Students concerned about financial support for studying abroad can seek help.

“There are many options for financial aid and study abroad scholarships,” Kalal said. “I just applied for two scholarships, received financial aid and I was on my way.”

For students not sure whether to take a chance on studying abroad, Kalal offers advice.

“I encourage anyone who has ever wanted to study abroad to do it through NIU,” she said.”The Study Abroad Office was extremely helpful in answering any questions I had about their programs, and helped me accomplish something that I never would have thought possible.”

The office, Williston Hall 417, offers 150 different study abroad programs in more than 100 different countries.