UW-Milwaukee Celtic Studies Program: Immersive Irish Language Experience

For over three decades, the Celtic Studies program at UW-Milwaukee has been offering students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the Irish language through a summer study abroad program in Donegal, Ireland. Led by Andrew Kincaid, an associate professor of English and the program director, this annual trip takes students to Gleann Cholm Cille in southwest Donegal County, a Gaeltacht region where Irish is the predominant language.

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The idea for this language immersion experience was conceived by John Gleeson, an Irish immigrant who founded the Celtic Studies program at UW-Milwaukee. The primary goal of the program has always been to provide students with a deep and authentic understanding of the Irish language and culture. Students spend three weeks at Oideas Gael, an Irish language learning school, where they participate in daily language classes and engage in cultural activities like singing, dancing, and field trips.

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While the focus is on language learning, the experience goes beyond the classroom. Students get to explore historical sites like Donegal Castle, Donegal Abbey, and the city of Derry, gaining insights into Irish history and culture. The immersive nature of the program, which includes living in traditional cottages and interacting with locals, offers a rich and multifaceted learning experience.

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Learning Irish, an ancient language with a complex phonetic system, may seem challenging at first. However, the recent revival of the language in Ireland has sparked renewed interest among both locals and international learners. This resurgence is a testament to the resilience of Irish culture in the face of historical suppression by colonial powers.

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For students like Hailey Fox, a political science major, the Celtic Studies program provides a gateway to understanding the political and cultural landscape of Ireland. Through interactions with locals and visits to significant historical sites, students gain a deeper appreciation for the language and its role in shaping Irish identity.

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Emma Corcoran, a psychology major, sees learning Irish as a way to reconnect with her family’s heritage and honor her grandfather’s legacy. By embracing the language that was once marginalized and suppressed, she is reclaiming a part of her cultural identity and contributing to the preservation of Ireland’s linguistic heritage.

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Andrew Kincaid, who leads the program with passion and dedication, emphasizes the transformative impact of studying abroad in Ireland. Through scholarships like the Berquist Scholarship, students like Hailey Fox have the opportunity to engage with a culture rich in history and tradition, gaining a global perspective that enhances their academic journey.

As the Celtic Studies program at UW-Milwaukee continues to foster connections between students and the Irish language, it serves as a testament to the enduring significance of language in preserving cultural heritage. By immersing themselves in the linguistic and cultural tapestry of Ireland, students not only expand their academic horizons but also contribute to the revitalization of a language that embodies the spirit of resilience and cultural pride.

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