International Media Class Trip to Ireland Provides First-Hand Look at Media, History and Culture Thursday, September 25, 2025
Point Park University understands that learning isn't limited to the classroom. That's why students enrolled in the International Media class have the opportunity to research and experience the media, history and culture of a selected foreign country every two years during the spring semester.
"This class is a great opportunity for our students to experience another country and its culture as we learn about the field that students are studying," said Robin Cecala, professor of broadcast production. "This is my fourth trip and I love bringing this to our students. I travel extensively and I think this type of travel is transformative."
Last spring, 16 students and two professors spent 18 days in Dublin, Ireland, visiting a variety of academic and media outlets, some of which included:
- RTÉ, the public service broadcaster of Ireland
- Irish Film and Classification Office (IFCO)
- Houses of Oireachtas, Ireland's national parliament, comprising Dáil and Seanad Éireann and the Oireachtas Committees
- Presentations on the Irish government
- Meetings with an Irish journalist and author
- Old Hurdy Gurdy Museum of Radio
- National Print Museum
"I truly believe that travel can change a person. From the skills learned by navigating passports and airports to the cultural competency gained from living in another country, traveling is always rewarding," said Heather Starr Fiedler, assistant vice president and managing director of the Center for Civic and Community Engagement. "I was so impressed by the students on this trip. They were engaged, excited and eager to learn."
Cultural experiences included:
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
- Sightseeing in Dublin, Howth and Belfast
- Presentations on Irish history and culture
- Taking an Irish dancing class
"The students on the Ireland trip were so excited about each planned activity. Many of them took the opportunity on their free days to travel outside of Dublin," said Cecala. "That experience of planning and navigating travel on their own is invaluable and further enriched their trip."
This was the School of Communication's 13th international media visit. Past trips took students to Spain, Italy, London, Iceland and Germany, among others.
"I keep in touch with many of the students who participated in this class, and it's often highlighted as one of their favorite experiences at Point Park," Cecala added.
In Their Own Words: Experiencing Ireland and Studying Abroad
"Traveling internationally has always been my dream, and doing it as a student was a blessing. If you have the slightest inclination to travel, do it. I experienced a myriad of tours and in-depth, behind-the-scenes site visits that I wouldn't have been able to do on a self-planned trip. This trip opened my eyes to a whole new world of media (literally). I saw how things are similar and different to the United States and got to meet industry professionals." — Grace Lorince, M.A. multimedia student, B.A. broadcasting graduate
"This trip was one of the most impactful experiences of my college career. What stood out to me most was how it blended cultural immersion with professional growth. For example, our historical walking tour in Dublin gave me such a rich perspective on Irish history and storytelling, which is directly connected to my own work as a performer. Attending local theatre, like "Jigsaw" at the Glass Mask Theatre, opened my eyes to the empathy-driven, realistic storytelling style in Irish theatre. This was a formative experience that will continue to shape how I approach my studies and my career." — Ayden Freed, B.F.A. acting major
"The International Media class is a great way to experience different media and culture outside of the U.S. College has made me grow in so many ways that I never thought would be possible, and going on this trip managed to expand that even more. I had the support of classmates and professors, and I also had the freedom I needed to grow and explore comfortably." — Savannah Ikach, B.A. multimedia major
"This was my first trip outside of the U.S. and it was incredible to experience a new culture. I enjoyed the media visits and made so many great memories with new friends. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is a wonderful way to see, eat, hear and experience new things. These shared experiences are going to be highlights of your life, and you will always remember the adventures you went on with your friends." — Alex Zahniser, B.A. broadcasting major, screenwriting minor
Students Create Website to Document Their Experiences
Learn more about the students' experiences on their International Media: Ireland website.