Name: Claire Hanna
Hometown: Armagh, Northern Ireland
Year: Junior
Major: Business
Her Campus (HC): Hey Claire! Her Campus is so excited that you’re here at SVC and we are excited to share with the school how awesome you are. To start things off, why did you choose to study abroad in Pennsylvania?
Claire Hanna (CH): I was accepted onto a program called Study USA run by the British Council. It has ties with over 100 colleges on the East Coast, and I got put at Saint Vincent based on a matching interview. My brother did it 3 years ago and encouraged me to apply!
HC: So far, even though you have a ton of time left here in the states, what has been your favorite experience?
CH: I’ve enjoyed every new experience but the Pittsburgh Irish Festival was a highlight. Seeing so many interested people celebrating my home and culture was very special.
HC: What’s on your “bucket list” for your time here?
CH: I’d love to see a Steelers, Pirates or Penguins game. I also don’t believe in ghosts so I hope to be proven wrong and see one at SVC.
HC: What’s something you miss about Ireland? Is there anything that is extremely different?
CH: I miss my friends and my hockey team at university. They’ve been family for the past two years, so coming here was like starting again from scratch. And of course I miss my actual family and my dogs.
I think the people are the main difference. Europeans in general are a lot more reserved and keep to themselves, whereas Americans tend to be more outgoing and forward. It’s really helped that everyone is so friendly and eager to say hello.
HC: What is your favorite food in America?
CH: My first meal here was Mac and Cheese bites from Sheetz on the way back from the airport, so the bar was set high!
HC: You play lacrosse here, which is awesome! What do you think about it?
CH: So far I’m really enjoying it. I play field hockey at home and they definitely have similarities. I love being part of a team and the girls have a great attitude. Although I don’t understand 7am runs during the off-season!
HC: What is your favorite television series and who is your favorite character?
CH: It’s a toss up between Desperate Housewives, Gossip Girl and Ugly Betty. My favourite character is Randy Hickey from My Name is Earl.
HC: Claire, I must know… Where are the guys cuter, here or Ireland?
CH: Haha. American guys are tanned and a novelty so I’ll go with that.
HC: If you could take only one thing from the states back to home, what would it be and why?
CH: A lifetime supply of Lucky Charms because they cost a fortune at home.
Thank you so much for sharing a piece of you with Her Campus Saint Vincent! We are so lucky to be able to share our beautiful country with you.
HCXO