Ireland was a last minute decision for me.I could have graduated in December, 2014 but my roommate Rachel told me about the study abroad program and how she was interested in the program. This is when I started to consider this once in a life time opportunity. I was especially interested in the Ireland study abroad program because of my Irish heritage and strong Irish family pride. I told my brother Billy about this opportunity and even though he isn't attending the University of Nebraska Kearney, we were able to meet with the study abroad coordinators and organized a way for Billy to participate in the UNK the program as well. I am so glad that Billy and I are given this opportunity to explore Ireland together as a sister/brother bonding trip before graduation in May. In terms of booking plane tickets, Rachel(my roommate's) dad walked me through the whole process.
Preparing for the semester in Ireland was exciting as well as nerve-racking. The only other time I have been out of the country was a few years ago when I traveled to Italy for two weeks with the UNK choir. I knew the experiences would be so different because two weeks is a big difference than three months. I am glad I have taken this opportunity instead of trying to cram all of the Ireland trip in two weeks, but instead have three months to immerse myself into the culture. Now that I am here in Ireland I would have packed a little differently. I would have packed warmer socks and another warm coat. My first day in Ireland I explored the little town of Spiddal. I explored the beach area/graveyard and had my first Guinness at one of the local bars. Our bartender's name was named Petey and told us about all the exciting places to explore when we go to Galway. Everyone I have met in Ireland have been very friendly and welcoming and I am honored to call Spiddal my home for the next three months! |