Testimonials

We are delighted to illustrate our wonderful testimonials

"My son, Conor Hennessey, participated in the program run by Celtic Irish American Academy. For two weeks this summer, he was hosted by a family in Salthill, Co. Galway. He attended classes on topics such as Irish history, culture, and literature. He got to hear speakers such as former President of Ireland Mary Robinson, and to explore the city of Galway and the beautiful countryside around it. From a parent’s perspective, this is all very valuable. He was able to stretch and challenge himself through travel and academics. He experienced a small slice of daily life in Ireland by sharing a home with the extremely generous host family, and he was safe and cared-for the entire time. From a kid’s perspective, though, most importantly, he had FUN! Yes he enjoyed the classes, and the things he learned still leak into dinner conversations. But to his mind, the highlights were the many excursions he took, the friends he made from all over, the comfort and warmth provided by his host family, and his increased appreciation of his Irish heritage. I cannot recommend this program highly enough, Brian has put together a fantastic mix of learning and adventure. He is accommodating and patient, quick to answer any concerns that may arise in the long months leading up to an experience of a lifetime. If your child has an opportunity to participate in the Irish Celtic American Academy’s program, I can only say: Go!".

"I highly recommend the Celtic Irish American Academy. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be immersed in the Irish culture. My son felt immediately at ease being far from home because of the warm welcome he received from his host family. Every day brought a new adventure and a new opportunity to learn about the beautiful land and people of Ireland. It was fun to watch the group of students grow closer with each new journey. My son has grown in confidence because of this experience. His memories will last a lifetime".

"The CIAA’s program provided a balanced mix of fun and education, giving my daughter (Chloe) a boost of confidence before heading to university. She had the opportunity to be introduced to new cultures, both within Ireland itself and with the other students in the program, expanding her global view. The program enabled her to get a taste of being away from home, giving her a sense of independence and responsibility, which are valuable skills for life and college. Additionally, her attendance in the program made for a nice college resume booster and afforded her the opportunity to use it as a talking point in meetings with college representatives."

"This was the most active and awesome trip I have ever experienced. From playing hurling to going to the bog, to visiting the multinational companies such as Medtronic and Altocloud, we had a super mix of everything. I loved the traditional Irish food and the host family were amazing and so welcoming..."

"...Travelling through Ireland, hiking, horse-riding, biking- this truly was an adventure. I loved the business element and meeting Irish leaders of business, and particularly cool was the leadership lectures we received at NUI Galway and Trinity College. I will definitely be returning to Ireland for my college studies".

"During my time in Ireland, I was not only able to fully immerse myself into the Irish culture, but also make life time friends. Right from the start, we were exposed to the importance of team work and that sense of a unit that I will carry with me forever. Class-wise, we learned so much about the importance of the business links between the U.S. and Ireland and also about the wonderful history of our forefathers. It was amazing to learn this about this amazing strong bond that exists. I definitely want to return to Galway to learn more and walk the beautiful cobblestoned streets ….and of course to cycle on Aran again! Thanks so much to the caring staff of CIAA for affording me this opportunity, this experience will be a major advantage on my college application.”

“CIAA is a brilliant program that provides high school students with the opportunity to become global citizens, gain world experience, enhance their resume, discover their passions, and more. The program prepares students to live, work, and succeed in a global economy. It also gives them the opportunity to grow academically and personally. The academic modules, day trips, and volunteering provide students the kind of life skills that can’t be learned in the classroom. Students will become flexible, independent thinkers, able to handle all kinds of experiences and situations that will prepare them for the challenges of college life.”

“Celtic Irish American Academy is an innovative and dynamic Academy offering an exceptional program. The director, Mr Brian Fahy, brings his excellent reputation as an outstanding educator and leader in school, community and sporting arenas. He is a brilliant ambassador for Galway and Ireland, and as the Mayor of Galway, I am really proud to see him develop this wonderful initiative for U.S. students. Ireland is often regarded as the 51st state, and this program helps strengthen this deep transatlantic bond for the next generation”

“Galway Simon Community, an agency working hard to combat homelessness, are delighted to work in partnership with the volunteers of Celtic Irish American Academy. The contribution made by the American high school students this year, in collaboration with their Irish peers, was really commendable and extremely rewarding for all. The international dimension of this volunteering was particularly rich in spirit and endeavour”.

“This is a very insightful program for high school students, particularly those interested in leadership, innovation and business studies. As a lecturer of Innovation and entrepreneurship, I was amazed at the interest and know-how of these students and the really innovative ideas they had. The directors of CIAA are very passionate about exposing students to Irish innovation. The U.S.-Irish links of the future are in safe hands”!

“Ireland is the business bridge between the U.S. and the European Union. Altocloud is a company that operates in the U.S. and Ireland, and we appreciate the cultural and business links between the two countries. Celtic Irish American Academy gives students a unique insight into those links”

“High school students interested in business and innovation have an excellent chance to develop their knowledge and enhance their resume. Entrepreneurial skills and global perspectives are explored in a dynamic forum, through a combination of classes at two Irish universities and visits to leading global companies, such as Medtronic and Guinness. This is a first-rate international program”.

"The time I spent in Ireland with the Celtic Irish American Academy was the highlight of my summer and the experience of a lifetime. I made amazing new friends and on my last day I did not want to leave Ireland. I will definitely be telling my younger brother to come. I never expected that I would leave Ireland with a deep love for traditional music and dance and also with a few Irish words – ‘slán agus beannacht’ haha"

"...We learned a tonne at St Enda's College - the classes were challenging and interesting. My favourite part was our service learning. We really got to appreciate what it is like to be a global citizen outside of the U.S. and learned the act of ‘giving back’ – we raised money for homeless people and we also volunteered at a youth soccer camp. It was such amazing fun”.

"My goal for a long time was to find a way for my daughters to gain a better understanding and appreciation of their Irish heritage. In doing so, my hope was for them to connect with Ireland and to become a proud member of the Irish diaspora. Attending the Celtic Irish American Academy, they were immersed in all aspects of Irish culture (i.e. the people, land, language, history, music, sport etc.). The program provided a safe environment where the students were well looked after by the host families and the CIAA staff. As high school students they were given just enough freedom to match their maturity level. My daughters returned home saying it was the best two weeks of their lives. Mission accomplished".

"We can't thank you enough for the experience our son and daughter had...The host family was wonderful, treating them as members of their own family. The variety of things that they did and saw, and the people that they met, really put them in touch with their Irish roots and gave them a sense of identity yet also a global awareness that they will carry with them for their entire lives. We enthusiastically recommend the CIAA to any young person who is looking for the experience of a lifetime"

"...I was bombarded with hospitality and kindness. I met the amazing people running the program and my new friends whom I will never forget. Going to Ireland has always been a dream of mine and the CIAA filled that dream and more. I would recommend this trip to any high school student and I would do this trip again in a heartbeat".

"…I learned about many different things. I learned about culture, business, and even got the opportunity to volunteer with different charities. This trip allowed me to learn lifelong skills that I will keep forever. Throughout the trip, we went to multiple classes, where we learned about history, poetry, Gaelic, French, business, public speaking and debating. This trip was a blast and is an unforgettable experience."

"We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the staff at the Celtic Irish American Academy. Our son Conor spent two weeks this summer at the Academy and returned home with an increased awareness of his heritage, a thirst for knowledge of everything "Irish," and excitement and joy at having made new lifelong friends. Thanks also to "host" parents Aiden and Marian for their kindness and generosity and John Flaherty for his humor and friendship. Brian Fahy is to be commended for an itinerary that made Conor's Ireland experience something he will forever treasure. GOD BLESS the CIAA!!! "

"The students learn about Irish culture, history, business, volunteering and much more, while being immersed in Irish life, living with host families in Salthill. It is the first of its kind in the West of Ireland. The two-week programme mixes teaching in the classroom setting, with exciting day trips and excursions, as well as sports and everything in between. "

“It is a great chance for high school students to develop as global citizens, and of course to enhance their resume through the volunteering, leadership and business elements of our program as well as gaining a deep appreciation of their culture and heritage.”

“CIAA is a brilliant program that provides our Irish American Young Leaders with the opportunity to become global citizens, gain world experience, enhance their resume, discover their passions and more. The program prepares them to live, work and succeed in a global economy. It also gives them the opportunity to grow academically and personally. The academic modules, day trips, and volunteering are the kind of life skills that cannot be learned in the classroom. Students become flexible , independent thinkers, able to handle all kinds of experiences and situations that will prepare them for the challenges of life.”

“CIAA is a great program for anyone who wants to learn more about their Irish heritage. You learn about Irish History, language and so much more. You go on trips to local areas and see the many sights of Ireland including the Cliffs of Moher and Diamond Hill. The friends you meet on the trip are friends you will keep for life. It was the highlight of my summer!”

“In July 2019 , I attended the Celtic Irish American Academy as an emerging Irish American young leader, fully immersing in the culture and heritage of Galway , Ireland. We stayed with an outstanding host family for two weeks as we travelled around Ireland, touring and attending classes on leadership , business and volunteering. Everyday was filled with excitement as we learned hurling , Irish dancing and hiked in Connemara. The memories I have and the friendships I made will last a lifetime.”

Having attended the last two years of this program I can tell you that it is a wonderful opportunity for High School students and in addition it is an ideal preparation for college life.

I wanted to thank you for giving me one of the most wonderful, exciting, and educational experiences I have ever had. I absolutely loved Ireland and fell in love with Galway. I really hope to visit again one day. I made new friends and memories that I will carry with me forever.

Testimonials

Testimonials

We are delighted to illustrate our wonderful testimonials

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