EF International Language Centers
Language Courses Abroad For adults and students aged 16 & above
Dublin The Emerald Isle may be green, but its capital is a kaleidoscope of people, ideas and fashions, a mix of Irish tradition and innovation. Come and find out for yourself why Dublin is Europe’s glittering jewel. Contact details: 29-30 Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin 2 Republic of Ireland Tel: +(353) 1 611 4220
Custom House
City Hall
Trinity College
Dublin Castle
EF Dublin
Pearse Station National Gallery
St. Patricks National Museum Cathedral
Merrion Square Park St. Stephen’s Green
Iveagh Gardens
Aviva Stadium
Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies
Dartmouth Square
Watch a video
Herbert Park Or visit us at Facebook.com/ EFDublin
Accreditations and Memberships The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol and Bournemouth are:
The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bournemouth are members of:
EF Dublin is accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers in the USA are accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers in the USA are members of:
EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited by Languages Canada.
The EF International Language Centers in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are accredited by:
Important Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.
The EF International Language Centers in Brisbane and Perth are members of:
The EF International Language Centers in Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are accredited by:
EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qualité Français Langue Etrangère.
Federation of International Youth Travel Organizations.
All EF Courses are certified by Southern New Hampshire University.
EF Education is an active participant in the Comité Européen de Normalisation.
All EF Courses are recognized by Hult International Business School.
www.ef.com
Contents - Dublin Section....... Topic
1 .............Introduction to EF 2 .............Welcome to the Ireland 3 .............Weather watch 4 .............Travel & transfer service 5 .............School information 6 .............Academics 7 .............Accommodation & meals 8 .............Money matters 9 .............Phones, faxes & Internet 10 ...........Health care & insurance 11 ...........School activities & excursions 12 ...........Transportation 13 ...........Expectations 14 ...........Irish culture & living tips 15 ...........Adjusting to a new culture
Dear Student Thank you for choosing to study English in Dublin. You have made an exciting decision since Dublin has become one of the most vibrant and fashionable cities in Europe, the perfect location in which to study our language with confidence. Our school in Dublin opened in May 2003 and as a new, smaller school we have a friendly atmosphere where staff will know all your names and can take time to help you with any aspect of your stay, whether it involves your lessons, your accommodation or your social life. We offer classes for all abilities and have a multi-media computer lab and private study facilities. We are situated in a beautiful Georgian townhouse that has been newly refurbished, on a prestigious square in the city centre. We are just a few minutes walk from the bustling heart of the city, Grafton Street’s famous shops, the nightlife of Temple Bar and the city’s sightseeing attractions. Remember however, that only you can decide how much English you will learn and how much you will benefit from living in this marvelous city. As well as your passport, you will need to bring determination to study hard, an open mind and a willingness to learn from the myriad of experiences you will encounter. So welcome to Ireland’s capital city; EF Dublin looks forward to meeting you.
16 ...........EF school calendar & holidays 17 ...........Checklist
Best wishes, Sylwia Janik, School Director EF International Language Center, Dublin
1. Introduction to EF EF Education First welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language where it is natively spoken. Our innovative curriculum, the EF Efekta™ System, integrates face-to-face learning in a classroom with studying outside the classroom using the interactive learning tools in our online iLab. An intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and social activities results in a fast and fun way to learn a language. EF students come from diverse backgrounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for years to take advantage of this opportunity. A large percentage of EF students apply their new language skills by taking a recognized exam, such as Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS. Successful completion of such exams provides the necessary language qualifications for university and for professional endeavors. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives while improving language and study skills. Students wishing to study at university can access information and make informed academic choices through our EF University Placement Service. A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international community where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.
2. Welcome to Ireland! Congratulations on choosing one of the most interesting and varied countries to study in! Ireland today has been transformed by a surge in economic growth and is now a very different country to what it was even a decade ago. Historically, Ireland has had a turbulent history that has seen conquests from the Vikings, the Normans and of course the British. Ireland finally became independent from Great Britain in 1921. The Northern part of the island remains part of the UK and the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 has brought a new stability and longlasting peace to the Northern region. One of Ireland’s worst tragedies was the Great Famine of 1845-51 during which two million people died or were forced to emigrate because of a poor potato crop. Following the famine, the population only really began to grow again in the 1960’s and the total population of the island is now around 4.1 million. Ireland’s booming economy has attracted, a wave of immigrants for the first time, from Eastern Europe, Asia and Africa bringing new culture and diversity to Ireland’s cities. Thankfully there are now plenty of potatoes to go round!
Dublin, Ireland
3. Weather Watch In the summer, from early May until late August, the city of Dublin can be warm and humid. There is less rain during Dublin’s summer months, but Ireland has a very wet climate with changeable weather. It is not unusual for a sunny day to quickly cloud over and turn into a rainy day. Winters in Dublin can be damp. Snow is infrequent, but there are often cold, clear, frosty days. Temperatures range from: Spring: 4° to 14°C (39° to 57°F) Summer: 9° to 22°C (48° to 72°F) Autumn: 4° to 17°C (39° to 63°F) Winter: 3° to 9°C (37° to 48°F)
4. Travel & Transfer Ireland’s economic revival has transformed its capital city into a vibrant cosmopolitan metropolis. Tourism in Dublin has increased dramatically and visitors from all over the world are coming to the city to explore its sightseeing attractions, its history and museums, and the Irish craic (good times – pronounced “crack”). Dubliners are known for being friendly and fun-loving and give their visitors a warm Irish welcome. Ireland is traditionally known as the Emerald Isle and is renowned for its lush green landscape. The varied scenery includes the lakes and mountains of the midlands and the spectacular cliffs of the Atlantic coast in the west. Irish cities are relatively contained so the peace and quiet of the countryside is never too far away.
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When you are studying you will notice how Ireland has changed over the years. While still holding on to traditions such as its old Celtic language and its traditional music and dance, Ireland will offer you the chance to experience varied historical, cultural and vibrant ways of life. We believe that living abroad and learning a language will give you valuable insights into the culture, customs and history of your host country and give you essential skills to take home.
Transfer service Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service from the airport to your accommodation for an additional fee. We highly recommend that you take advantage of this service. At least one month before your arrival, you must inform the EF Office in your home country of the exact details of your flight (airline, flight number, date and time). When you come into Arrivals, after baggage reclaim, wait in front of the bright white Dublin information desk for an EF Greeter. Do not go to another part of the airport unless an EF staff member tells you to. If, after approximately 30 minutes you still have not met with your greeter, telephone our emergency number. Please make
sure that you do not go with any driver who is not holding an EF sign. Please note: your local EF office will provide you with important contact information such as an emergency number before your departure. We would ask you to be extra vigilant on arrival at the airports as there have been a few incidents where students have been picked up by ‘Taxi Touts’ who frequently target foreign students. They convince them they are EF Taxi drivers, drive the students to their destination and then charge them for the transfer telling them that they can then claim this money back from the school. This is obviously not the case, so please make sure that you do not go with any driver who is not holding an EF sign. Independent transfer If you wish to make your own way to your accommodation or the city centre you can either take a taxi or the Aircoach. The Aircoach costs €8 for a single ticket and departs for the city centre every 15 minutes. You will then need to join a connecting bus service to your accommodation.
5. School Information The School Director is assisted by an accomplished staff of teachers and administrators. There is an Activities Coordinator who organises a full program of EF activities and excursions. The school offers the following facilities: ❚❚Multimedia computer lab for class and selfstudy ❚❚Computer lab with Internet access ❚❚Wi-Fi Internet – don’t forget your laptop! ❚❚Student lounge ❚❚Self-study room ❚❚Library ❚❚Pool table ❚❚TV room with 50” plasma TV ❚❚Payphones ❚❚Noticeboards to tell you what is happening ❚❚Outdoor courtyard ❚❚Café ❚ Table tennis
6. Academics EF language courses give students the opportunity to study the English language and the local culture for as long, and with as much intensity, as suits the student and his or her needs.
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Dublin, Ireland
EF Level Placement Test Within 24-hours after booking your course, you’ll receive your personalized EF username and password for the online EF campus called My EF. Before traveling, you will take the EF Level Placement test online. This test will measure your language level and ability, grammar and listening comprehension abilities. Using your test results, our academic team will place you in one of six different language levels. As your English language skills become stronger, you will be promoted into the next language level. You may speak with your teacher if you feel you have been placed into the wrong level. Orientation During your orientation you will receive your class schedule and other important information about the school and the city. Fun activities are planned to help you meet students and staff. General English Classes General English classes focus on the development of the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. They also include work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. Each lesson is 40 minutes in length. Special Interest Classes Depending on your course type you may also select a number of special interest (SPIN) classes. SPINs allow you to improve your English through the study of a wide range of subject options. Admission to some of these will depend on academic and linguistic level and availability of places. The selection of SPIN classes varies throughout the year and a student may not be able to repeat the same SPIN class. Each lesson is 40 minutes in length and two lessons are combined into one 80-minute teaching period. Class size The average class size is 13 students with a maximum of 15 students. Class Schedule Classes will be scheduled between 8.30 am and 7.30 pm 5 consecutive days per week and may be in the morning or the afternoon. Peak Summer Season Timetabling During the summer between the first week of July and the third week of August, the school
is open for classes Monday through Saturday. Your schedule will be either Monday to Friday or Tuesday to Saturday between the hours of 8.30 am and 7.30 pm. Your timetable will confirm your schedule. Peak Summer Season Timetabling During the summer between the first week of July and the third week of August, the school is open for classes Monday through Saturday. Your schedule will be either Monday to Friday or Tuesday to Saturday between the hours of 8.30 am and 7.30 pm. Your timetable will confirm your schedule. Lecture You will have one lecture per week on a variety of different subjects ranging from Irish Culture and History to Literary Greats, and Irish Trivia to Irish Popular and Traditional Music. Attendance You are expected to attend all classes. Consistent failure to attend class, for whatever reason, may result in expulsion from the program with no refund of course fees. In order to be eligible for an EF certificate, students are expected to participate in class and must attend at least 80% of all classes. Homework You are expected to complete all assignments set by your teachers in General English and Special Interest classes. If you are taking an examination preparation class you should expect at least one hour of homework per night. Assessment You will be assessed at regular intervals throughout the course. Assessment is based on attendance, participation, attitude and performance. Course books As part of your academic program, you’ll be expected to buy the books and classroom materials that you will use in class. The exact number of books that you’ll need is determined by your academic level, progress and choice of special interest classes. If you wish to buy additional books you may need more money. The books you buy are yours to keep, write in and take home with you for future reference.
iLab Learning All English language school courses include six iLab sessions per week. iLab sessions complement and reinforce classroom learning in an interactive online learning environment. Exams You may enrol for several different public examinations during your course. For example, Cambridge, TOEIC, IELTS and TOEFL exams are all popular with students. TOEIC can be taken at the school itself, the others must be taken at an external examination centre and booked several months in advance. You will need to pay fees to register for public exams in Ireland. This is typically €100 to €180 for each exam. Advice as to the most appropriate examination to sit for will be given to you by your Director of Studies. Cancellation of course or school transfer If you decide to downgrade, cancel or transfer your course to another EF school, please talk to our Customer Support team. They will advise you of any transfer charges and visa restrictions. EF University Placement Service EF International Language Centers offer a university placement service that provides expert advice on applying for university in the UK and Ireland. If you are interested in continuing your studies, you are encouraged to talk with the University Pathways Manager at your school. University Transfer Credit Through our partnership with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), EF students may be eligible to receive university credit for their coursework.
7. Accommodation & Meals Host family accommodation and student residence accommodation are available at the EF Dublin school. All host family and student residence issues during your stay should be directed to the Accommodation staff. Host family accommodation Students staying in a host family will have the opportunity to experience Irish life and also have the chance to practice their new language skills with fluent English speakers. Students who choose host family accommodation should do so because they want to live in a family environment, and interact with the family members and learn
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more about Irish culture by immersing themselves in a local way of life. Families choose to host international students because they want to learn about other cultures and people. The key word to a great host family experience is respect. Students who live in a host family must respect the family and their home. Likewise, the family will respect the student. As you get an in-depth look at Irish life, you will realize that Irish culture is not the same as your culture, and therefore, family life may be quite different. The family routine and the food you eat may be different from at home. The relationship between husband and wife, the roles of family members, the relationship with or discipline of children and the relationship with pets are just some examples. If you are open-minded about these differences, life in a host family will be a great learning experience. Many of our families have looked after international students for many years and are familiar with the challenges of living in a foreign country. All accommodation is carefully selected and inspected by the Accommodation Manager and our host families are chosen for their kind welcome and supportive attitude. There is no stereotypical family. Hosts may consist of 1) mother, father and children, 2) single parent with children, 3) a couple without children, 4) retired couple, 5) widowed woman, or 6) single host parent. You are responsible for all transportation costs to and from the host’s home. You may be placed up to one hour away from the school. Dublin city
centre is a commercial and tourist zone therefore all our host families are in the residential suburbs. Before you leave your home country, please let your host family know the date and estimated time of your arrival to ensure they are at home to welcome you when you arrive. Laundry and Facilities Your host family will change your towel and sheets every week. You are responsible for your own clothes. If you want your host family to wash your clothes for you, there will usually be a charge of approximately €5- €10. You are responsible for your personal items such as shampoo, conditioner, soap and other items. You will probably share the bathroom with others. This means that you may need to be flexible about shower and bath times. Very few students have their own bathroom. If you want to take a long time in the bath or shower check to see that nobody else is waiting to use the bathroom. Most private houses in Ireland have hot water tanks of a limited capacity. You may be asked to be considerate of other people in the house and limit your time in the shower. Always remember to keep your room clean and tidy. Make your bed, and put your belongings away. You are also responsible for cleaning up after snacks and for washing your own dishes after breakfast. It is also polite to help clear the table after dinner.
Telephone use To call your friends and family you will need to use a prepaid telephone card, which is available at the school. Your family can telephone you, but please ask them not to call too late. Remember that you are sharing the telephone with the rest of the people in the home. Do not spend more than 15 minutes on the phone at any time.
Residence deposit Every student must agree to and sign a copy of the rules of the residence as well as paying a deposit of €150 to the EF Reception desk on the first day of school, which will be refunded to them before their departure, provided there has been no breech of the rules or damage to the apartment.
money in the school.
Requests for change Host family accommodation is booked for your entire course. You may only change for very serious reasons. Requests for change will be considered on an individual basis. No refunds will be granted for students who choose to leave their host family for personal reasons.
8. Money Matters
9. Telephones, fax & Internet
Currency Irish currency is in Euros. The symbol for this currency is €. The euro is divided into 100 cents (sometimes referred to as euro-cents, especially when distinguishing them from other currencies). Banknotes come in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100. They will each be a different
Telephone All long distance calls must be collect calls, charged to the person you are calling, or charged to a prepaid telephone card, which can be purchased at the EF school. We recommend that students expecting to stay for a long period of time come with or purchase a mobile phone. Fax
color to allow you to tell them apart more easily. Coins come in denominations of 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2.
Unfortunately there are no fax facilities in the school at the moment, however there are some places close to the school that send faxes and charge for the time used. Ask the front desk for directions to the nearest fax machine you can use.
Meals in a homestay Your host family provide breakfast and dinner Monday through Friday, and all meals on the weekends. You are responsible for your own lunch during the week. Meals will only be provided when you are home to participate. Please be sure to call your hosts if you are going to be late or if you are not going to be home for a meal. There will be no refund for meals not taken at home with your family. There are many sandwich shops close to the school, as well as our own Café, where you can buy lunch and snacks. Life in a student residence You may have chosen to live in our self-catering student residences as they offer clean safe city-centre accommodation with the benefits of independent living and the privacy of en suite facilities. Charming apartments containing twin bedrooms with one to two bathrooms per apartment. All residences are self-catering, have laundry facilities, Internet access and shopping nearby. Students will be provided with a set of bed linen upon arrival but must bring their own towels and are expected to clean up after themselves. The important thing to remember about living in the residence is to respect your fellow roommates, and the rules of the residence, which will be explained to you by the EF Residence Manager. Our year round residence Lad Lane is a 2-minute walk to the school.
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Spending money We recommend that you bring about €150 for your first days in Ireland to cover costs such as travel to school, lunch, and telephone calls. You will also need to take money for learning materials used in class. We recommend that you bring €150 - €250 for each week you plan to stay in Ireland. This should cover lunches, laundry, travel to and from school, and EF Activities mid week. For weekend excursions, shopping and depending on what you choose to do during your leisure time, you may need to bring more. Please also remember you will need to pay for any language proficiency exams you plan to take. Only carry as much money as you need for one day and don’t leave money unattended– remember thieves exist everywhere in the world! The safest way to carry money is traveller’s cheques. Many places also accept major credit cards. Money cannot be changed at the school, but please ask staff where you are able to change money or traveller’s cheques. Changing money When changing money in Ireland, always go to a recognised bank or travel agent. Commission rates will vary so check first for the best rate. We regret that we are unable to change
Credit cards EF strongly recommends that students travel with either a Visa or MasterCard. Credit cards enable you to rent cars, reserve hotel rooms, and do various activities, which may be more difficult with cash or traveller’s cheques.
Internet The school is equipped with Wi-Fi wireless Internet. Students are highly encouraged to bring their personal laptop computers for email and Internet use on the wireless network.
10. Health care and Insurance The EF staff can recommend nearby hospitals and doctors offices if you need medical attention. Please ask the EF staff or your host family for assistance if you need medical attention. If you have any personal problems there is always someone who you can talk to confidentially. Insurance All students traveling to Ireland are required to have medical and accident insurance upon starting their program of study. You will still have to pay for some treatment if you see a doctor but you can claim the money back from the insurance company. Please note: You will need to keep all receipts in order to receive money back from the insurance company. All students are required to bring proof of insurance in English to show that they have proper health insurance when a medical emergency occurs. Students who do not bring proof of in-
surance will be required to purchase insurance through EF at the school. Erika Travel Insurance Because security is EF’s number one priority, we have negotiated a comprehensive tailormade travel insurance package for EF students with Erika Travel Insurance, an international insurance expert. The policy protects you against expenses incurred through accident or illness, and provides coverage for loss or theft of baggage and personal effects. It also provides coverage against interruption of your EF program due to illness as well as liability and legal expenses. The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika Travel Insurance questions and claims. When you are sick or injured the last thing you want to do is deal with such issues. Let us help you! European Health Insurance Card If you are an EU/EEA national and are travelling or staying temporarily in another state of the European Economic Area (EEA), you are entitled to receive medical care if you become ill or have an accident. Please ask the Administration staff at the school for more information.
11. Activities & Excursions Extracurricular activities contribute greatly to your social and academic success. They not only help you to relax after a day studying, they also provide you with an opportunity to meet and make friends from other classes, other countries and other cultures. Your school’s activities and trips give you the opportunity to apply your life skills, practice English in real situations and learn about the Irish history and culture. Activity Programme Your full time Activities Coordinator will arrange a new schedule each week of different activities during the afternoon and evening that will suit all types of interests. Weekly Activities Our weekly activities will consist of visits to popular tourist and cultural attractions. The Activities Coordinator will also organize socializing events such as the weekly EF party or sporting activities such as soccer, tennis or golf. Weekend Excursions EF arranges weekend excursions and day trips to local attractions. At least one trip will be advertised each week to different locations
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around Ireland and even Europe. Our excursions are organized at a minimum cost, are great fun and extremely good value. Excursions can be paid in cash or with credit cards. Typical activities and excursions Excursions could range from day trips to the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough or ‘eye-opening’ history-filled city of Belfast (cost between €20 and €40) to weekend trips to Galway, London or Northern Ireland (cost between €120 and €200). These prices are subject to change at any time. Example of the Dublin activities schedule These activities may differ from those on offer during your stay here with us. Monday ❚❚Afternoon: Dublin City Walking Tour ❚❚Evening: Discover Temple Bar for a night of Irish music Tuesday ❚❚Afternoon: Visit to the Jameson Distillery ❚❚Evening: Irish Comedy Night Wednesday ❚❚Afternoon: Visit to the historic Malahide Castle ❚❚Evening: A night at the dog races! Thursday ❚❚Afternoon: Visit the Guinness Storehouse. ❚❚Evening: Irish Music Pub Crawl Friday ❚❚Afternoon: Soccer Competition ❚❚Evening: EF Party Night in Dublin’s hottest nightclub Saturday ❚❚Day trip to Wicklow Mountains and Kilkenny. Enjoy the beautiful Irish countryside! Sunday ❚❚Take the DART and spend a day on the beach if the weather is nice. Talk to the Activi-
ties Office for details. Let us help you have fun! Parties and pub nights are held each week to help you mix with the locals and discover the brilliant night life that Dublin has to offer. Dublin has many galleries and museums. You can see the famous Book of Kells at Trinity College (said to be “the most beautiful book in the world”), visit the Natural History Museum, the National Gallery or Dublin Castle to name but a few. Some charge a small entrance fee whereas others are completely free of charge. You are not limited to the scheduled activities. However EF Dublin has developed a strong relationship with many companies to provide discounts to our students. Whether it’s booking the theatre through one of EF’s ticket agents or finding the best place to hire a car we have the means to help you.
12. Transportation Dublin is a comparatively easy city to get around. The centre of Dublin is a compact area and many of the sights are within easy walking distance of each other. Buses Dublin has a large and reliable network of buses, which are usually blue and yellow double-decker buses. The majority of the buses start in the centre of Dublin city. Fares are normally very affordable, which provides an inexpensive and useful way to travel. Although the bus driver will accept inaccurate fares, you will have to collect your change at the central office in Dublin, as indicated on your ticket. This ensures that transactions are quick and keeps the buses running on time.
Current bus pass prices are: Weekly Bus Pass €26.50 Weekly Bus/Luas Ticket €29 Weekly Bus/Rail Ticket €34.50 Student Weekly Bus Pass €18 Student Weekly Bus/Luas Ticket €24 Monthly Bus €100 Monthly Bus/Luas Ticket €113 Monthly Bus/Rail €119 Student Monthly Bus/Rail €93 Student Monthly Bus/Luas Ticket €82 Nitelink Bus €5 Latest prices can be found at: ❚❚www.irishrail.ie ❚❚www.dublinbus.ie Taxis It is very easy to hail taxis on the street and they are not too expensive. You can also find them at taxi stands at train stations, bus stations or outside some hotels. Prices are based on metered mileage and there is a minimum charge. If a group of you are going home together at night it is a good idea to share a taxi. Hackney cabs, which also operate in the city, do not have roof signs and most are not metered, so it is important to establish the fare beforehand. Trains The electric railway system in Dublin is better known as the DART, which stands for Dublin Area Rapid Transit. This fast, efficient system serves 25 stations with several stops in Dublin city centre. Dublin has three main train stations: Connolly Station, Heuston Station and Pearse Station. Transportation from accommodation to school You are responsible for all transportation costs to and from your accommodation. Depending on where your host family is located, you will come to school on the bus or the DART (Dublin’s suburban rail link) or the LUAS (tram system). The longest time the journey should take is one hour. Your hosts will tell you which is the best way of getting to school.
13. Expectations Expectations are a normal part of anticipating a new experience. Remember that many of your
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expectations may have been formed by the unreal world of TV and movies. Arrive at your course center with an open mind! What you can expect from EF: zS upportive staff, available for guidance and encouragement. zA n academic program which combines language, special interest, and culture-oriented classes. zF ull program of local activities and excursions at special EF rates. zA ccommodation in a host family or residence. zA ll designated meals. zE F Academic Year Abroad Diploma for Academic Year Abroad students with 80% attendance per term and good academic standing and academic records zE F Course Certificate for International Language Students with 80% attendance and good academic standing. zP reparation classes and/or materials for appropriate standardized language exams and availability of University Placement Service (UPS). What EF expects of you: zT o develop a greater understanding of the world around you. zT o attend at least 80% of all classes and to do your best in class at all times. zT o be respectful of your host family, your classmates, your teachers and your community. zT o keep your room and shared areas clean. zT o speak English at all times. zT o abide by all laws, rules and regulations of your host country, state, campus and school. What you can expect from your host family: ❚❚A comfortable, clean place to live. ❚❚Prepared meals or accessibility to food to prepare yourself according to the meal plan. ❚❚Access to the school in approximately one hour by public transportation. All transportation costs are your responsibility.
14. Irish culture & living tips Visas and registration with immigration If you require a visa to enter Ireland, or are from a non-EEA country, you will be required to register with immigration if your course is longer than 12 weeks. In order to register with the immigration authorities you will have to open a bank account and deposit €1000 into
it to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself in Ireland during your stay. At the immigration office you will have to pay an administration fee of €150 for your Certificate of Registration, unless you are under 18 at the time of registration. Please speak to the Administration Staff at the school for more information about the registration process. Dos and Don’ts You will be required to abide by national laws as well as the rules of the EF school. Violations will lead to a verbal warning, then written warnings and then possible disciplinary action by the School Director. The following are illegal in Ireland: zD rugs (non-medicinal) zP urchasing alcohol if you are under 18 years of age, or purchasing alcohol for someone else who is under 18 years of age zB uying tobacco if you are under 18 years of age, or buying tobacco for someone else who is under 18 years of age zS hop-lifting zD riving without insurance or a valid driving license zO ffensive weapons (including pocket knives) Please don’t break the law. If you do, you will almost certainly be sent straight home on the next available flight and you may even risk being sent to prison. Travel outside of Ireland If you are planning to travel outside Ireland during your course you may need a visa. Please ensure that you check any visa requirements before you leave your country to avoid disappointment. If your passport has a single entry visa and you are studying for six months or less then you will be unable to travel outside the Ireland. This visa cannot be changed in Ireland. You may need a UK visa if you wish to visit Belfast or other locations in Northern Ireland and a reentry visa to return to the Republic of Ireland. Please note: if you are under the age of 18 you will need to provide the school with a parental consent. The document will confirm that your parents allow you to travel and take full responsibility.
Tipping Tipping is customary for taxi drivers and in restaurants where no service charge is added to the bill. 10% is normally acceptable. In restaurants where service is included, bars, pubs and cafes, there is no need to leave a tip. Appliances and electricity Remember that the mains voltage in Ireland is 220V. You may need to bring an adaptor if you wish to use any of your own electrical appliances. Plug sockets are the three pin British style. Recommended reading ❚❚Let’s Go Ireland (or Let’s Go Dublin), Harvard Student Agencies, Inc. Great student travel guide for where to go, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat. ❚❚Lonely Planet Ireland - a great user-friendly travel guide for where to go, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat. Recommended websites ❚❚www.visitdublin.com ❚❚www.entertainment.ie ❚❚www.tourismireland.com ❚❚www.temple-bar.com ❚❚www.dublin.ie ❚❚www.goireland.com ❚❚www.ireland.ie ❚❚www.dublinevents.com ❚❚www.indublin.ie ❚❚www.dublintourist.com
15. Adjusting to a New Culture The EF community is more than a group of students who have come together to learn English. It is also a multi-cultural group of young adults who are eager to share their own culture and learn the culture of their host country and fellow classmates. One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts, traditions and practices of a specific community or population. Our culture affects how we view ourselves, how we relate to others and what we value as important in life. We are often unaware of how much our culture affects our lives. You may have already had some exposure to the new culture you are about to experience. You may have seen television shows, read books, or studied in school about Ireland.
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Dublin, Ireland
While some parts of this culture may already seem familiar to you, experiencing a new culture first-hand will prove exciting. You will be meeting students from all over the world who, like you, are looking forward to spending a year learning and living a language, both inside and outside the classroom. As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are uncomfortable. Culture shock is what sometimes happens when we try to meet challenges of our new culture by using the values, beliefs, and attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to a new culture, we must learn that cultural differences are merely different - not right or wrong.
towards your experience. Keeping a journal One way to keep track of emotions and changes that take place over the year is to keep a journal. By recording your experiences and feelings on a regular basis, you will be able to reduce the impact of culture shock. You will have a record of your academic and personal progress to look back on in days and years to come. Be sure to note changes in: zL anguage skills zS chool performance and involvement zC ampus/host adjustment z I ndividual learning and growth
It is a good idea to bring traditional objects from
Keeping a journal will help to remind you that
your culture to share with other students and your host to teach them about your country.
culture shock is truly a temporary phase of adjustment.
Tips on coping with change Remember that change does not come without some effort! We humans need a certain amount of stress to motivate us to learn new ways of being. Learning always involves some form of change. You should try the following:
Bring pictures and Items from home If you have room in your suitcases for some music, a costume, pictures, or some typical crafts, it would be good to show other students, as well as to decorate your room to make it seem like home. We have seen costumes and drums from Korea, dancing and music from Austria and a piñata and tortillas from Mexico. Please bring pictures of your friends, family and surrounding area.
zW hile you might be tempted to surround yourself with things that are familiar to you, try not to isolate yourself by being only with others from your home country. Keep reaching out to your host, roommates and other students. zP ut off making major decisions such as an accommodation change, until you feel more “at home” with the culture in general. zT alk to us about your worries or problems. EF Staff are here to help and would prefer to know about any problem you may have so that we can help you. zS et goals, no matter how big or small, and accomplish them! You will feel good about yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the negative feelings associated with culture shock. For example, set a goal that you will speak English at all times. zR emind yourself that you came to this country to experience a new culture, to meet others and to explore your new surroundings. Relax, take a deep breath and reflect back on the days before leaving your home country when you were excited about your new adventure. Try to refocus this former excitement
16. EF School Calendar Academic Year Schedule The Academic Year is divided into three terms. (See the applicable start date below for your program’s specific term and break schedule). January 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 6 Jan - Sun 8 Jan Term 1: Mon 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar Holiday: Sat 10 Mar - Sun 25 Mar Term 2: Mon 26 Mar - Fri 1 Jun Semester Departure: 2 Jun 2012 Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun Term 3: (Year) Mon 11 Jun - Fri 17 Aug Departure: 18 Aug 2012 April 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 Jun Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun Term 2: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep Semester Departure: 8 Sep 2012 Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 3: (Year) Mon 24 Sep - Fri 30 Nov Departure: 1 Dec 2012 June 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 8 Jun - Sun 10 Jun Term 1: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 2: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec Semester Departure: 17 Nov 2012 Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan Term 3: (Year) Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Feb Departure:
2012 1 January - New Year’s Day 17 March - St. Patrick’s Day 9 April - Easter Monday 7 May - May Bank Holiday 4 June - June Bank Holiday 6 August - August Bank Holiday 29 October - October Bank Holiday 25 December - Christmas Day 26 December - Boxing Day 2013 1 January - New Year’s Day 18 March - St. Patrick’s Day 1 April - Easter Monday 6 May - May Bank Holiday 3 June - June Bank Holiday 5 August - August Bank Holiday 28 October - October Bank Holiday 25 December - Christmas Day 26 December - Boxing Day
Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May 1 June 2013
January 2013 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan Term 1: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013 Holiday: Sat 8 Jun - Sun 16 Jun Term 3: (Year) Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug Departure: 17 Aug 2013
■■ Valid passport (with visa where necessary) It’s a good idea to make copies of these and pack them in your suitcase just in case. You don’t need to carry your passport with you while you are in Ireland but you must keep it and your other documents in a safe place while you are in the country. ■■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student identification cards, travel cards and other possible documents ■■ Flight ticket ■■ Luggage correctly labeled ■■ E F Confirmation letter & other EF documents ■■ M ake sure all EF forms are complete, especially the Health Certificate ■■ Medical and travel insurance documents with proof of insurance in English, if you have secured Erika Travel Insurance from EF, you do not need to have anything translated.
■■ An International Driving License if you are planning on hiring or buying a car.
Important telephone numbers
Host family’s or student residence name:
________________________________________ Host family’s or student residence address:
■■ Local currency for first week and for any learning materials that are not included in the cost of the course. ■■ Money in the form of an ATM card (Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring large amounts of cash in any currency!). ■■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appliances you plan to bring with you.
________________________________________ Host family’s or student residence telephone number(s):
________________________________________ EF Sales Office telephone number:
■■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook. ■■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, host family and teachers. ■■ Personal sports equipment.
________________________________________ EF School telephone number:
+(353) 1 611 4220 ________________________________________ EF School emergency telephone number:
Please note: there will be no classes on public holidays.
17. Checklist
■■ Basic medical supplies, any medication you take regularly and a spare pair of contact lenses or glasses if you wear them.
9 Feb 2013
September 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan Term 2: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013 Holiday: Term 3: (Year) Departure:
School holidays The EF International Language Center in Ireland recognizes the following public holidays when there will be no classes. If your arrival falls on one of these dates, please check with the school staff upon your arrival for an exact orientation schedule.
+(353) 87 130 0357 ________________________________________
■■ Favorite books, photos and a camera. ■■ Host family or student residence details and emergency numbers.
16. EF school calendar & holidays
17. Checklist ■■ Valid passport (with visa where necessary) It’s a good idea to make copies of these and pack them in your suitcase just in case. You don’t need to carry your passport with you while you are in Ireland but you must keep it and your other documents in a safe place while you are in the country.
School holidays The EF International Language Centers in the UK recognize the following public holidays when there will be no classes. If your arrival falls on one of these dates, please check with the school staff upon your arrival for an exact orientation schedule. 2012 1 January - New Year’s Day 17 March - St. Patrick’s Day 9 April - Easter Monday 7 May - May Bank Holiday 4 June - June Bank Holiday 6 August - August Bank Holiday 29 October - October Bank Holiday 25 December - Christmas Day 26 December - Boxing Day
■■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student identification cards, travel cards and other possible documents ■■ Flight ticket ■■ Luggage correctly labeled ■■ E F Confirmation letter & other EF documents
2013 1 January - New Year’s Day 18 March - St. Patrick’s Day 1 April - Easter Monday 6 May - May Bank Holiday 3 June - June Bank Holiday 5 August - August Bank Holiday 28 October - October Bank Holiday 25 December - Christmas Day 26 December - Boxing Day
Checklist
■■ M ake sure all EF forms are complete, especially the Health Certificate ■■ Medical and travel insurance documents with proof of insurance in English, if you have secured Erika Travel Insurance from EF, you do not need to have anything translated. ■■ Basic medical supplies, any medication you take regularly and a spare pair of contact lenses or glasses if you wear them. ■■ An International Driving License if you are planning on hiring or buying a car. ■■ Local currency for first week and for any learning materials that are not included in the cost of the course.
Important telephone numbers Host family’s or student residence name:
Additional notes or numbers:
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
Host family’s or student residence address:
Homestay host’s or student residence address
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
Host family’s or student residence telephone number(s):
Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s)
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
EF Sales Office telephone number:
EF Sales Office telephone number
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
EF School telephone number:
EF School telephone number
■■ Money in the form of an ATM card (Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring large amounts of cash in any currency!). ■■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appliances you plan to bring with you. ■■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook. ■■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, host family and teachers. ■■ Personal sports equipment.
+(353) 1 611 4220 _________________________________________
_________________________________________
EF School emergency telephone number:
EF School emergency telephone number
+(353) 87 130 0357 _________________________________________
_________________________________________
■■ Favorite books, photos and a camera. ■■ Host family or student residence details and emergency numbers.