Twins Share Adventure in Ireland Through SU Study Abroad Program
By SU Public Relations
SALISBURY, MD---Twin brothers Jonathan and Matt Wessel shared many adventures together growing up in Bel Air, MD.
They added a big new adventure to their list earlier this year when they studied abroad together in Dublin, Ireland, during SU’s winter term. The trip was inspired by their grandfather, the son of Irish immigrants, who encouraged them to explore their Irish heritage.
Jon, a geography major, and Matt, majoring in political science, studied at Trinity College through SU’s partnership with the American Institute for Foreign Studies. They discovered a course they were both interested in: Modern Irish Writing.
“We were concerned that we would not be able to take the course since we had already completed our general education classes at Harford Community College,” they said in a joint statement. “But then we learned from SU’s Center for International Education that we could use free credit space that was not covered by our general education, major and minor courses.”
The class, which focused on Irish writers, poets and playwrights from the early to mid-20th century, connected Irish history with culture. It also included multiple field trips to locales such as the ancient monastic city of Glendalough, which they found particularly impressive.
Outside of class, the brothers explored the culture in Dublin, including in the historic neighborhood of Temple Bar and The Liberties. They hiked a lot, as well. Jon’s favorite spot was in Howth, just outside of Dublin.
“SU’s transfer students from Maryland community colleges often are in a perfect position to complete a study abroad or study away program when they get to SU,” said Dr. Brian Stiegler, assistant provost for international education. “Matt and Jon are models of how readily available such high impact adventures in learning are to community college transfer students.”
“I strongly recommend that any student studies abroad if they can,” said Jon. “I am grateful for my experience and hope to go back one day.”
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