Why did you pick this program?
I wanted a country that spoke English so that when studying, I didn't have to struggle in my classes and translate my homework. I also wanted a city that would be less distracting than some of the bigger touristic cities such as Paris, London, or Rome. I also never knew anything about Ireland and was intrigued by its mystery.
What do you tell your friends who are thinking about going abroad?
To never hesitate. No matter what challenges could be thrown your way, such as financial abilities, class requirements, or even your own procrastination in doing research, please overcome them and get yourself there. It will be an investment worth making.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Prepare yourself for the unexpected: weather, academics, culture, etc. Be prepared to be surprised and be involved in everything, in every way you can. Many regrets I've heard is people wishing that they didn't sit in bed or stay home- that they wished they had taken every opportunity of free time to explore the city and be active.
What's your favorite story to tell about your time abroad?
In a small pub, Cobblestone, local musicians gather at 7pm every night to jam. There's never a rehearsed song or a set band of musicians that come- anyone's invited. One night I saw a man who looked like the shining image of an old Irish Man, stout, round belly, tweed cap... In his own small space (because the small pub is always jam-packed), he was dancing. And the music is always lively and uplifting. With a few beers in me, I asked the old guy to teach me how to Irish dance, such as he was. He didn't say a word, but looked at me determinedly for a pause, then grabbed my waist and my hand and started bobbing and twirling with me to the rhythm of the music in the pub. In a very short amount of time I picked up on the dance, and people had given us ample room, circling around us, clapping and yipping to the rhythm of the music. I remember tossing my head back and laughing as I was twirling with this man shorter than I, in a small space in the bar.
What's the most difficult thing you've overcome throughout your experience?
Coming home. Being a lover of travel and culture, I fell in love with the time I spent there. I found a home in the people I met and in the culture of Dublin. Coming back felt like my life was regressing, and that I was losing everything I loved. It's important to remember throughout your time abroad that your time is limited, and to never take it for granted. In the same breath, I'd say it's important to know that when you return, you'll always have the memories of your trip, the connections you made with people, and the ability to return to your beloved city.