Preparing for the Adventure Ahead!

I’m so excited to be leaving for Dublin in just a few days! I’ve wanted to visit Ireland for years, due to distant ancestral connections and a fascination with its gorgeous landscapes and rich history. Full of both excitement and anticipation for my semester abroad, I’m writing to introduce myself, share some of my goals and plans for the semester, and show how I’ve been preparing for departure!

I’m entering my senior year at Sarah Lawrence College in New York, where I study literature and writing. These interests led me to IES Abroad’s Dublin Writers Program, which seems like an excellent opportunity to explore my passions in a new environment! In my courses this fall, I’ll be studying Irish writing, history, and film. I’m excited to dive deep into the culture and history of Ireland through my studies and travels!

While I spend most of the year at school in New York, I’m originally from the suburbs of Boston, Massachusetts, a city known for its (sometimes) fanatical pride in a shared Irish heritage. Almost everyone I grew up with claims some amount of Irish ancestry, though many of us have only a distant connection to the country. This environment certainly contributed to my strong desire to explore Ireland, including the places my ancestors came from. At the same time, I’m very aware that Irish-Americans often go about their reconnection in a way that’s disrespectful to the true Irish people and history. I take all of these considerations into account as I set out, in the hope of having an authentic cultural experience in Ireland. 

One of my main goals for my semester abroad is to put myself out there and explore what Dublin – and the rest of Ireland – has to offer. I plan to take many weekend trips around the country by train, but also to go against my introverted nature and spend as much time as possible out in Dublin. I hope to visit some ruins and castles, see the cliffs and countryside, and explore museums and restaurants across the country. While I might make a few international trips, I want to see as much of Ireland as possible in the few months I’ll be there. I want to fully immerse myself in this experience and make memories that will last!

Finally, here are some of the ways I’ve been preparing for my semester in Dublin:

1. Spending time with family, loved ones, and pets!
2. Get doctor’s appointments and forms out of the way early
3. Printing all my travel documents and keeping them with my passport
4. Saving up money
5. Looking into the average weather Dublin and planning outfits accordingly
6. Packing light to leave room for souvenirs
7. Lists, lists, and more lists
8. Planning weekend trips in advance
9. Reading books and watching movies set in Ireland!

I can’t wait to see what my semester in Dublin has in store for me! I have no idea what to expect, but I’m also unbelievably excited. I’ll be documenting my adventures through my blog posts, so follow along!