“Wonderful, exciting and challenging.” This is how Mindi Stevenson, coordinator of international education at John Brown University, described the process of resuming the Irish studies program after two years in stand-by due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
With 11 students currently in Belfast, Ireland, the spring edition of the program has started with new features and novelties. The Lakeside manor, purchased in the Spring of 2021, has finally opened its doors to welcome the students with steady, hot water, warming framework, brand new ceiling and flooring and superior Wi-Fi arrangement for students to have optimal access to online resources and enhanced contact with their families.
After the program had to be cut short in the spring of 2020, a great effort has been done to make it possible for these students to enjoy the new scenery and the enriching discussions. Despite all the new challenges and risks that the pandemic represents for this study abroad program, JBU has implemented new policies for the security of students and faculty. According to Stevenson, it is a fact that all students are vaccinated, not only to protect themselves but also to respect the guidelines of the churches and congregations where it is required for them to pay visits during their stay in Ireland. The manor is more than equipped to host the students in case they need to stay indoors due to COVID quarantine restrictions if that is the case, Stevenson affirms.
Undoubtedly, this edition of the program is special and unique. Besides the priviledge of traveling during a pandemic, students have the opportunity to develop a closer understanding of this semester’s theme of “Peace and conflict resolution” with remarkable experiences. They have witnessed (via VideoLink) a direct message from the Pope in a Protestant cathedral in Belfast and heard a speech from the Archbishop of Canterbury about social justice in person at St. Peter’s Cathedral. They also have unlimited opportunities to visit the city in their free time and connect with the culture of the country.
Stevenson adds that the program is an opportunity for students to learn and reflect on how to be “men and women of faith” and “better citizens of their countries,” being capable of putting into practice what they learned about political and religious differences, not only in a secular aspect but also with biblical fundaments.
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