communication information

Cell phones

You are required to have a cell phone during your program. Ask your mobile phone service provider if you can continue using your US-based plan in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Ask about domestic (in UK) and international service. Be sure to ask about additional charges or fees for calls, text messages, and data when using international service. These can be quite steep and add up quickly. Be sure to ask about the cost of both making and receiving calls and text messages.

Some providers have reasonably priced international calling plans that are separate from their US plans. You may also find cell phone carriers other than your primary carrier with good deals for international calling. Your phone may be compatible with a UK service provider,  which include Orange, O2, T- Mobile, and Vodafone.

Searching the Internet for travelers’ experiences with your provider when they were abroad or their experiences with other international calling/texting options may be helpful. You will need to use your judgment.

During the first week in Derry/Londonderry, you will have an opportunity to get a mobile phone. Because students are in different locations during the internship portion of the program, you are required to have a mobile phone that allows you to contact, and be contacted by, the program director and other members of the group. Because phones can be lost or damaged, the program director will encourage you to buy the cheapest handset and plan possible. You also are encouraged to consider purchasing phones as a group; if everyone in the group gets the same plan, texting among the group will be significantly cheaper or even free. Cell phones and minutes during the program generally cost $75 - $125.

International calls

Because international calls can be expensive, and people tend to use Skype, we suggest you consider a plan that allows you to receive international calls easily rather than a plan that allows you to make them cheaply. Most students find that a quick call home can be quickly followed by a longer return call from home. Some reference, some mobile phone providers in Northern Ireland are:

• http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/

• https://www.o2.co.uk/shop

Texting Apps

Apps like WhatsApp allow for free international texting and calling over wifi. These services only work if both parties have the app. If you want to try either of these services, look into them before you leave and make sure that the people you would like to text also have the app. Again, confirm that these services are, indeed, free.

Computers

We urge you to bring your laptop computer with you on the program. If you do not have a laptop, access to computer labs at the Ulster University Magee campus is available during the university’s open hours. All Ulster University housing has Internet connections.

NOTE: Beware of remaining too connected to the US. If you aren’t careful, you will find yourself glued to a computer every evening. Email, Facebook, and Skype can burn up hours, and they can have the effect of putting you in limbo – not quite in Northern Ireland, but also not at home. Of course, there will be people back home with whom you want to correspond frequently, but it is best not to let the computer become your primary hub of activity when you have free time. Communicate with people at home, but remember to live in Northern Ireland.

Emergency Contact Information and Phone Numbers for People Who Need to Reach YOU

In the case of an emergency, your family and friends can call or WhatsApp the CGEE emergency cell phone at 612-817-2830.