Author: Hannah Lockhart | Major: Childhood Education with Reading Concentration | Semester: Summer 2025

Photo of me reading a children’s book about America to a group of 1st graders (or as they say, “first class) in Limerick, Ireland.

Studying abroad is often described as a life-changing experience—something that pushes you outside your comfort zone and reshapes the way you see the world. For me, traveling to Ireland through The Art of Teaching: Education in Ireland program did exactly that. It allowed me to explore what education looks like beyond Arkansas and beyond the United States, helping me grow not only as a future teacher but also as a person. I spent Summer 2025 traveling across Limerick, Galway, and Dublin, immersing myself in Ireland’s education system and culture. From the start, I was drawn to this program because of the incredible faculty leading it—Dr. Jack Kern and Dr. Bonnie King. Their encouragement, insight, and passion for providing meaningful international opportunities made me feel confident choosing a program so far from home. I also knew I wanted to deepen my understanding of education in a global context. I believe great teachers never stop learning, and what better way to
learn than stepping into classrooms across the ocean? Our group taught in multiple schools serving students from preschool through sixth grade—though in Ireland they call them “classes” instead of grades (for example, 6th Class instead of 6th Grade). Right away, I noticed differences in how students and teachers interacted, how classrooms were structured, and the deep value placed on schooling. One of my favorite lessons we taught centered around a children’s book titled America Is…. After reading, we discussed U.S. landmarks, and the students were fascinated, especially by the size difference between our countries. Seeing their curiosity and excitement reminded me just how powerful literature can be in connecting cultures. The biggest academic takeaway for me came from learning that Ireland’s constitution explicitly states that education begins in the home. This belief shapes everything, including teaching approaches and parent involvement. That single detail sparked a newfound interest in parent partnership—something I hope to continue researching as I move deeper into my studies and career. It also helped me better understand how cultural values influence the way children learn and how schools operate to support families.

Outside of the classroom, Ireland’s beauty and history made every day feel magical. Limerick quickly became my favorite city, full of fascinating stories hidden within its ancient architecture. I loved visiting King John’s Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral and imagining what life was like centuries before our classrooms existed. Another standout adventure was visiting Kylemore Abbey, a place that felt straight out of a fairytale with its dramatic landscape and
incredible history woven into the walls. But the moment I will never forget happened at the Cliffs of Moher. Standing at the top, with the wind blowing and the Atlantic waves crashing into the rocks far below, time felt like it stopped. I remember looking out over the endless water and feeling so connected to the world and the opportunity I had been given. That was the moment I realized how much this trip had changed me.

This experience taught me that education doesn’t look just one way. It is shaped by culture, family, community, and history. Ireland reminded me that strong schools begin with strong relationships—especially between educators and families. As a future elementary teacher in Arkansas, I want to bring that mindset home. I want every parent to know they are valued partners in their child’s learning. I grew more confident in what kind of teacher I want to be and more curious about the global community of education I am part of.

If I could offer any advice to future students considering studying abroad, it would be this: go. Be prepared to ask questions, say yes to new foods and places, and embrace being uncomfortable at times. The best parts of the trip are often the most unexpected. You don’t need everything figured out before you leave; you just need to be open to what you’ll learn along the way.