Breanna Gleason studied at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, with a focus on Irish Studies over the course of seven weeks. She developed a deep understanding for both historical and contemporary issues in Ireland. Through a series of lectures and seminars, her focus within Irish Studies concentrated on Economy and Society, History, Literature, Drama, Gaelic Culture, and Visual Culture. Apart from the lectures and seminars, her historical and contemporary understandings of Ireland were accelerated by cultural events and study field trips. These trips ranged from poetry and prose readings, theatre performances, film screenings, art gallery tours, traditional music sessions and a visit to Croke Park to attend a Gaelic football game. Both the cultural events and study field trips significantly contributed to her understanding of the Irish culture and were illustrative of the differences between the Republic and Northern Ireland. Breanna was able to gain better insight to the Northern Irish culture after spending a week studying at Queens University. Despite the short amount of time she spent there, it was during the most hostile moments of the year in Northern Ireland, known as the marching season. During this time there are various marches communally celebrating a symbolic assertion of Protestant power over Catholics. Thus, resulting in large amounts of protests, in response to these marches. After observing the ongoing tensions amongst the Protestant and Catholic communities, she inquired how the conflict would be resolved. Subsequently, chosen out of twenty-two students within her program, Breanna was then given the opportunity to pose her questions concerning the antagonistic environment in front of the Northern Irish Parliament, Stormont. This opportunity enabled her to gain great insights involving the Northern Irish people, culture, policies and lifestyle. Following her trip, she would be able to better distinguish between North of Ireland and the Republic by visiting the Irish Republic’s Parliament, Dial. Since her return, she has started preparing for mentoring a class focusing on the “Troubles” of Northern Ireland. Throughout the course, she will have the chance to incorporate her knowledge of Irish Studies obtained while studying at both Trinity College and Queen’s University. Beyond the academic aspect of Breanna’s international experience, both her leadership skills as well as her global mindset have greatly benefited due to the numerous opportunities provided.