This program will take students on a transformative journey through Ireland and Northern Ireland, delving into themes of identity, history, and peacebuilding. By immersing participants in site visits, workshops, and cultural activities, the itinerary offers a hands-on approach to understanding the region’s complex past and its ongoing efforts toward reconciliation and unity. By connecting historical context with modern challenges, this program equips students with a deeper understanding of how communities navigate identity, conflict, and reconciliation.
Does the absence of conflict mean a presence of peace?
Day 1–2: Arrival in Dublin & First Impressions
After an overnight journey across the Atlantic, students arrive in Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland.
The first day is intentionally gentle, giving everyone time to settle in, recharge, and begin adjusting to a new environment. In the evening, the group shares their first meal together before diving straight into Irish culture, learning traditional dance in a lively, hands-on session. It is an energizing and joyful introduction to the spirit of Ireland.
Day 3: Exploring Dublin & Stories of Migration
Students spend the day getting to know Dublin on foot, walking through historic streets and landmarks that tell the story of Ireland’s past and present.
In the afternoon, they explore the EPIC Emigration Museum, where interactive exhibits bring to life the journeys of Irish people who left their homeland and shaped communities around the world. It is a powerful way to connect Ireland’s history to global themes of identity, movement, and belonging.
Day 4: Language, Culture & Sport
This day is all about experiencing Irish identity firsthand.
Students take part in a Gaelic language workshop, gaining insight into how language connects to culture and national pride. Later, they head to a local sports club where they learn and try traditional Irish sports like hurling and Gaelic football, fast-paced, community-centered games that are deeply rooted in Irish life.
Day 5: History, Faith & Cultural Expression
Traveling north to Armagh, students explore Ireland’s religious and cultural history.
They visit two cathedrals connected to St. Patrick and engage in conversations about faith, identity, and community. In the afternoon, creativity takes center stage with the Armagh Rhymers, where students participate in music, storytelling, and performance rooted in Irish tradition.
The day ends in Belfast, a city that will become the focus of deeper learning in the days ahead.
Day 6: Understanding Belfast’s Past & Present
In Belfast, students step into one of the most complex chapters of modern history.
They walk along the peace lines, see political murals, and hear directly from individuals who have lived through and continue to shape the legacy of The Troubles. Through guided discussions with speakers from different perspectives, students explore themes of conflict, identity, and reconciliation.
This is one of the most impactful days of the program, encouraging critical thinking, empathy, and open dialogue.
Day 7: Rural Life & The Peace Process
Students experience a different side of Ireland with a visit to a working sheep farm, where they meet a local shepherd, learn about rural life, and see sheepdogs in action.
Later, in Derry/Londonderry, they explore another key site in Northern Ireland’s history. A visit to the Peacemakers Museum helps students understand how communities moved forward after conflict and what peacebuilding looks like in practice.
Day 8: Craft, Creativity & Youth Voices
Back in Belfast, students explore Irish craftsmanship through a hands-on copper workshop, learning how tradition and creativity intersect.
They also have time to explore the city more independently before ending the day in conversation with local university students. These peer-to-peer discussions create space for honest exchange about identity, leadership, and life in Northern Ireland today.
Day 9: Heading Home
After a week of exploration, connection, and growth, students return home, bringing with them new perspectives, deeper understanding, and stories they will carry long after the trip ends.
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