Frequently Asked Questions

Marist's First-Year Dublin Experience Program (FDE)

1. How do I apply to the FDE? What makes a candidate a good fit for the program?

Perhaps you have a passion for travel, a desire to study abroad, or a longing to challenge yourself to the unexpected… Your academic goals may reflect an inclination for foreign languages, an international perspective, or an interest in Celtic mythology or literature! If you would like to be considered for the FDE, there is a place on the application to make this known, or you may send an email to admission@marist.edu. An additional supplement is required, and candidates must complete a successful interview with a Marist staff member. Students who satisfactorily complete the above requirements and are deemed admissible to the New York campus are then invited to participate in the FDE.

2. Are all students eligible to participate in the FDE?

The FDE program is offered to select incoming first-years who meet the above-listed requirements. Most majors work well with the FDE, but certain highly specialized programs such as lab sciences, special education, athletic training, and others with a high number of courses offered only in Poughkeepsie will find it challenging to spend a year abroad. Please call to find out if your major is eligible. Students participating in programs such as the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), the Accommodations and Accessibility Program or Division I Athletics are not eligible to participate in FDE but may be eligible to study abroad at another time.

3. Where will I be living?

You will be living at the Highfield House, located in the heart of Dublin near the River Liffey. Home to nearly 500 students, the residence is equipped with furnished apartment-style dormitories, each having a private ensuite with a shower, a shared kitchen, and a lounge area. The building also offers a laundry facility, a fitness room, a large study area, a bike storage room, and a game-room lounge. There will be an active social events calendar at your disposal, and Resident Staff offices and live-in Student Life Assistants are on the premises 24/7 to offer their support with an array of services. There’s even a house pet!

4. Is there laundry? Internet? How do I call home?

There is a large laundry room facility in the Student Residence building. You will receive a laundry card, which you top up with credit to use the washer and dryer. Wi-Fi runs throughout the apartments and common spaces. The most practical and cost-effective way to call home is via Skype or other online messaging and calling apps such as FaceTime, Whatsapp, Viber, or Facebook Messenger.

5. How do I prepare meals?

Each apartment has a shared kitchen that is fully stocked with appliances. There are several local supermarkets, greengrocers, butchers, restaurants, cafés, and gastropubs in the local area or within a short walking distance. There are no meal plans or dining halls.

6. What kind of living and miscellaneous expenses should I expect to have?

Student budgeting should include expenses for weekly food, personal health and hygiene, laundry, transportation (though most places are within walking distance), personal travel and shopping, and social activities (cinema, live music gigs, sporting activities, etc.).

7. Will I have housing on the Poughkeepsie campus when I return?

Absolutely! FDE students in good academic and judicial standing are guaranteed on-campus housing upon return to the Poughkeepsie campus.

8. How does the transition to the Poughkeepsie campus in sophomore year work? 

Students take part in a return orientation to renew their acquaintance with Poughkeepsie campus services. Many students find the transition very easy, particularly due to the strong support system of the strong relationships formed during the FDE program. These students tend to stick together as they go through the same transition and reminisce of their Dublin adventures, while also embarking on their latest journey in NY. They are still in a great position to make new friends through classes, student clubs & activities, or the plethora of on-campus events. As part of the FDE alumni cohort, students are also encouraged to participate in our FDE mentor and alumni programs. The Marist Office of Counseling is always available to students as well and is accustomed to dealing with different types of culture shock, including the transition back from studying abroad.

9. What kinds of activities are available at the Dublin campus?

Students attending will have access to our partner institution’s activities, as the Dublin Business School (DBS) offers a myriad of clubs and organizations. These range from drama to basketball and from film to surfing, and even go-karting! On the off-chance that they don’t have the particular club you’re looking for, you can help create it yourself!

10. Is there work study available at the Dublin campus?

There are no internship or work-study opportunities available in the FDE program.

11. I have financial aid and/or scholarship. Will I keep this if I join the FDE?

Yes. Your financial aid package, including scholarships, loans, and payment plans will travel with you to the FDE program and will remain in effect as they would have on the Poughkeepsie campus.

12. I am an athlete. Can I join the FDE?

Division 1 athletes are not eligible for the FDE program but may be eligible to study abroad at another point in their academic career at Marist.

13. I want to study a foreign language. Is the FDE right for me?

There are currently no foreign language courses offered as part of the FDE.

14. I have never been abroad before. Will I be comfortable in Dublin?

Dublin is a modern European capital with one of the highest standards of living in Europe and a culturally diverse population. That and the fact that Dublin has the youngest population in Europe with 50% of the population under the age of 25 is one of the many reasons it consistently ranks as one of the most popular study abroad destinations. Dublin has a welcoming village-type atmosphere and is famed for the friendly locals and vibrant nightlife. For those who like to escape city life every now and then, Dubliners have the luxury of jumping on a short train ride to visit some of the stunning coastline views and surrounding Dublin Mountains.

15. What about safety and security?

While small, Dublin is still a major European capital and, like all cities, crime exists. On the whole, Dublin is considered a safe city and the majority of crime is non-violent petty theft such as pick-pocketing. Through preparation, orientation, an open-door Student Life office, and a 24/7 emergency number, we ensure that students are fully supported and prepared with the necessary “street smarts” to navigate the city in a safe and attentive manner.

16. Do I need a passport?

Yes. If you don't already have one, you should apply immediately at the U.S. passport webpage. 

17. Do I need a visa?

U.S. Passport holders do not require a visa to study in Ireland. Instead, students must make an appointment with the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service (INIS) to register following their arrival. This process costs €300. Non-US passport holders may not be visa exempt and should check the INIS website.

18. Who else studies at the Marist Dublin campus?

Marist’s partner institution Big Pond Education hosts both first-years and upperclassmen from several different universities across the United States. Dublin Business School also hosts local Irish students and students from across Europe and the rest of the world.

20. How do you select roommates?

Once the FDE class is finalized, staff will begin to arrange apartment assignments and roommates according to a housing survey. You will be notified of your roommate prior to your arrival in Dublin.

21. What if I get sick?

Residential staff are there to assist in times of sickness. Whether you need to make a doctor’s appointment or visit the hospital, the staff will be there for you. All students will be oriented upon arrival on matters concerning health and well-being.

22. Who teaches the courses?

International faculty teach your courses. In Ireland, courses are called modules or classes. 

23. Will I have time to travel?

Students will have plenty of time to travel throughout the academic year. Some weekends are taken up by mandatory study tours and events in and around Dublin, but most will remain free. You should not book any time away until receiving your schedule at the beginning of the academic year upon arrival in Dublin.

24. Will there be RD’s and RA’s?

Resident Director and Assistant Resident Directors, as well as several live-in Student Life Assistants (SLAs), will be on staff. Marist also has a full-time FDE Program Director residing in Dublin. This person supports and mentors students in their academic and experiential program.

25. What is the campus like?

The Dublin campus is an urban city campus, meaning it’s not like a traditional U.S. college campus. Dublin Business School has several buildings located in the heart of the city center where classes are held. The student residence is approximately a 20-minute walk from the nearest DBS building. The residence hall is located just a few short minutes from the River Liffey and students pass the stunning Christchurch Cathedral every morning on the walk to class.

26. Can my family visit?

Of course! Your family is welcome to visit during the academic year. For your own sake, please wait until you see the academic and extracurricular schedule before booking any flights. The FDE operates a strict no overnight guest policy at our residence hall, so visitors will have to book separate accommodation.

27. Is there a meal plan?

There is no meal plan or student dining hall available. Students have fully equipped shared kitchens in their apartment-style residence and are encouraged to explore the diverse dining opportunities the city has to offer.

28. How many first-years participate in the FDE?

Each year is different, but this year, we expect approximately 30 students to participate in the FDE.

29. Will I be able to study abroad other semesters?

Depending on your major, it is possible to study abroad at different times during your academic career with Marist. It is common that once a student participates in a program like the FDE, they are bitten by the “travel bug.” Strategic planning with your academic advisor can allow you to study abroad during other semesters or participate in our short-term or summer programs.