An Arcata High School student will soon trade in the redwoods and rivers of Humboldt County for the bogs, castles and cliffs of Ireland. Claire Monge, is spending three weeks this summer studying Irish culture and history.

Monge, a senior, was awarded a $7,500 scholarship through AFS USA. She was selected for the scholarship based on an essay titled: “What it Means to Be a Global Citizen. “I really haven’t traveled outside the United States, except for a little bit into Canada.,” said Monge. “I am super excited about getting off our continent, learning about Ireland, eating four meals a day and cliff jumping. There are some really cool activities planned.”

As part of the AFS Global Prep program, Monge will spend three weeks exploring, volunteering and studying. She will earn college credits through Drew University, based in Madison N.J. through the Institute of Study Abroad Ireland.

“I get to live in a dorm at the Adventure Campus in the surf town of Bundoran. They have a game room, climbing and rappelling tower, ropes course and surfing and kayaking lessons,” said Monge. “I’m an adventurous person. I like eating all kinds of different foods and I’m looking forward to everything.”

For more information about scholarships for traveling and studying abroad through AFS, contact Connie Doyle at (707) 362-3625 or Kathi at (541) 223-3013.