Letter From Michael Francis
Assistant Provost for Campus International Development

Over the last ten years, Notre Dame has doubled the percentage of its undergraduates studying abroad. Why has it made this effort?

Let us start with the fact that you will live your adult lives in a world that will differ greatly from that of your parents just as their world differs from that of your grandparents. One of the most basic changes in this world is the degree to which better communications and transportation, rising levels of trade and international finance, and the process we refer to as 'globalization' is changing the face of the world. But if globalization represents the spread of western culture and economics, we have to realize that there continues to be powerful international differences based on language and culture, terrorism, ethnic rivalries, and military hostilities resulting in humanitarian disasters. How to prepare Notre Dame students to live and compete in this complex and contradictory world is an important curricular issue.

The goal of Notre Dame's foreign programs is to introduce you to a broader world, to help you learn how to understand and deal with the complexities of cultural differences, and to see this evolving world in terms of the moral challenges it presents for us all. But, like many other things, what you get out of the study abroad experience depends on what you put into it. While you are in Ireland try to meet as wide a range of people as you can. Try to understand how the Irish see their place in the world and their place in Europe. Learn to appreciate the tremendous contribution Ireland has made to the world's culture. Your classes are valuable opportunities to develop your intellectual skills. But also understand that the chance to travel and meet people from other countries gives you experiences that will forever shape who you are.

You have a rare opportunity. Enjoy it!

Letter From Kevin Whelan
Michael J. Smurfit Director of the Keough-Notre Dame Centre

I am deeply appreciative of your choice of Dublin as your Notre Dame international programme, and I aim to ensure that your experience here with us vindicates that choice. We at the Keough Centre are delighted to have you with us, and please be assured that we will do everything in our power to ensure that your stay here is happy, productive and fulfilling for you on every possible level - personal, academic, social and cultural.

Let me state two things. Firstly, you will get out of this programme exactly what you put into it. Your willingness to immerse yourself, to talk with people, to do things will greatly enhance your experience here. Secondly, you will find that your time here passes very quickly: it is really important to hit the ground running, and to be active from day one. Dublin is a great city for young people; Ireland is a friendly and interesting country; UCD and TCD are two fine universities; and the Keough Centre is here to support, advise and smooth your way.

Thanks to the tremendous support of the University of Notre Dame, this programme is well set up to provide a quality international experience. All we need is what you will provide - enthusiasm, curiosity, excitement, and a willingness to stretch yourself. This is not our programme - its yours. Please enjoy it.