I chose to attend Juniata College for many reasons, but one of the big draws that brought me to Juniata’s doorstep was its study abroad program. Even as a freshman I knew I wanted to study abroad, but at least at that point, I had no idea where. In the end, I chose Ireland because of taking a conflict resolution class the second semester of my freshman year where we used the conflict in Northern Ireland as a case study. I had an amazing experience during my time abroad, but I was even more surprised about all that I would end up learning and most of it did not always happen in the classroom. After returning from that incredible experience, although I understand not everyone can study abroad, because of a variety of reasons, I wish every college student could, because a studying abroad experience is no joke, a life changing experience.

Upon my arrival to Ireland, I instantly fell in love with the country. It was awesome to be immersed into another culture, if only for a few months. The classes were interesting, but the real learning was in the amazing travels I was able to take part in. One of my favorite trips around Ireland was visiting the Cliffs of Mohr. I think this was one of my favorite trips for a few reasons. The first one being that the Cliffs of Mohr were absolutely breathtaking, and trust me, you have never felt the power of wind, until you are standing on the Cliffs of Mohr. The second reason is because of the new friends I was able to take the trip with. I made friends with other kids around the United States while in Ireland, but also kids from other countries. I suppose it goes without saying, but I did make a lot of Irish friends, but I also befriended people from Germany, France, Great Britain, and others. I also was able to visit countries such as Belgium, Scotland, and even the Canary Islands.

I think one of the most important things I took away from my abroad experience was learning how to trust myself, and realizing I was actually capable of more than I thought. I am not going to lie, the first time trying to navigate an airport in another country by yourself can be an extremely intimidating experience. However, by the end of my experience traveling around Europe, I am now confident enough, if you put me in any bus station, train station, or airport and tell me where you want me to go, I am confident I could make it there in one piece.

It was nice to return to the United States after my time abroad, but I can tell you beyond a shadow of a doubt, a part of me was left in Ireland and Europe in general. I am so blessed to have been given this opportunity, and too anyone else who is or will be studying abroad, I hope you have the time of your lives and have as much fun as I did.