Global Community Programs

Intercultural Affairs offers a variety of global community opportunities that immerse ECU community members in diverse environments. These programs address a range of social and cultural issues through the exchange of ideas, personal reflection, critical thinking, and academic concepts beyond the classroom. What’s more, these opportunities challenge all participants to critically reflect upon their role in the world and their ability to make lasting change.

For spring break 2025, we will offer one short-term study abroad program in Northern Ireland through our partner organization, Amizade. See below for more details and follow the link to apply.

Alternative Break Experience in Northern Ireland

Serve & Learn in Northern Ireland

March 9-16, 2025
Derry and Belfast, Northern Ireland

Application available here!

Experience the richness of both rural and urban settings, visit both Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods and discover Belfast, a city like no city in the world. Participants will gain a first-hand look at the history of the Troubles, meeting with ex-combatants, politicians and youth workers with both experiences in the conflict and peace process. They will meet with local community and professional leaders; serve on projects developed by community leaders; and explore the country and culture through field trips, local presenters and community events. To affect change on personal and interpersonal levels, structured group reflections and shared learning experiences will enable students to:

  • Strengthen relationships and create shared context
  • Survey the community and develop the courage to open themselves to new perspectives
  • Raise difficult issues and foster critical reflection
  • Link Northern Irish issues to global issues
  • Establish creative tension between the current reality and the future

Amizade has created this program to push participants outside of their normal comfort zones and to challenge their assumptions and knowledge about Northern Ireland. Participants will leave with a strengthened capacity to identify and address key opportunities to develop, support and advocate for change in their home communities.

Program costs:

  • Program fee: tbd (includes lodging, food, ground transportation, and all program activities; payment plans are available. Pay online here.)
  • $75 application fee and $15 travel insurance fee payable to Office of Global Affairs
  • Roundtrip flight to Dublin (average price from RDU-DUB is $575; students will purchase their own flights separately but all will travel together)

    This program is offered through ECU’s Intercultural Affairs, Student Life, Honors College, and Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement, and open to all students. Spaces are limited. Scholarships are available.

    For more information, please contact: