Eagles teach in Ireland through MSU Education Abroad

Through Morehead State's Education Abroad program, students gain hands-on professional experience in other cultures to help them grow personally and professionally.  

Three MSU students recently completed a two-month student-teaching experience in Belfast, Northern Ireland, from October to December 2024.  

The experience in Northern Ireland allowed the education majors to complete their student-teaching requirements and develop their oral communication skills as part of MSU's Level UP program.  

"The children I taught hold a special place in my heart," said Sydney Shepherd, an elementary education major from Ashland. "Studying abroad is the best thing I could've ever done for my professional and personal development as an educator."  

Dr. Gera Nelson, assistant professor of education, supervised the students' program and spent a week with them in October, getting them acquainted with their school, Holy Evangelists' Primary School. The program allows students to learn about the differences between teaching in a school in Northern Ireland and teaching in schools back in Kentucky.  

Students participating in the exchange learn about cultural differences between the U.S. and Northern Ireland and how the education system works in different countries. The educational system in Northern Ireland is unique compared to the rest of the United Kingdom, and MSU students learn more about how local schools operate. They also learn to instruct students from diverse backgrounds.  

"The educational system is robust, and I had the opportunity to work with passionate educators and enthusiastic students, which was incredibly fulfilling," said Erikah Voll, an elementary education major from Salyersville. "Belfast's friendly and welcoming atmosphere made it easy to adapt and feel at home, while the stunning landscapes and historical sites provided endless opportunities for exploration and learning outside the classroom."  

A highlight of the experience was visiting Belfast City Hall and participating in a city council meeting. During their visit, they had the chance to become honorary city council members for the day. Immersing in the formal proceedings, the city's leadership guided them through the official protocols. To enhance the experience, they donned the ceremonial robes traditionally worn by elected council members, symbolizing their temporary role in Belfast's local government.  

Nelson has worked with Paul Doherty, a member of the Belfast City Council, to facilitate student visits. Doherty is also the founder of Foodstock, a community food bank and anti-poverty organization.  

"The visit provided our MSU students a firsthand glimpse into the workings of Belfast city governance and the rich traditions that shape civic leadership," Nelson said.  

MSU's Level UP program is a unique program that builds in-demand skills, including teamwork, professionalism, critical thinking, oral communication, and written communication through service learning, internships, education abroad, and undergraduate research.  

To learn more about Level UP, contact the Center for Career Development and Experiential Education at 606-783-2233 or careerservices@moreheadstate.edu.  

MSU students have many education abroad options available to diverse destinations in many disciplines, as well as the opportunity to partner with many universities around the world.  

For more information on these programs or how to support students with education abroad, contact Dr. Jason M. Adkins, coordinator of education abroad, at jm.adkins@moreheadstate.edu or 606-783-2044.