A year ago I made the decision to study abroad. It seemed like a great thing to do considering all the traveling and chance for individual growth. So five advisors, two abroad sessions, some research, and 365 days later, here I am in Limerick, Ireland.

The flight over here was something I'd consider pretty easy, especially since I had just gotten back from a visit to Asia. From California, I made my way on a flight around six hours to Boston. There I stayed the night with my cousin only to leave for Ireland the next evening.

The second flight that was supposed to take up to six hours ended up only being four and a half, a swift journey that landed at 4:30 a.m. A group of approximately 40 other students and I were greeted by three bubbly individuals wearing their bright yellow, Student Abroad Guide t-shirts.

Now that I am beginning to settle in on my first day, here are a few things I have learned thus far.

1. Eat something before your flight.

Though most transatlantic flights will provide their guests with a complimentary meal, the food isn't always the best. It's been over 24 hours since the last time I ate a meal. This is because I didn't really enjoy the food provided on the plane ride over and I've been so busy trying to move in and buy items I need for my semester.

2. Europe is expensive.

Yes, yes, you hear this a lot, but you don't really understand or feel the real meaning until you've experienced it. Today I bought toiletries and a small amount of food for later and it was already over $120.

3. Go to the cheesy orientation events.

Though these can sometimes be a little goofy, activities like these help you meet people. It's nice to have someone you recognize when you're in a brand new place.

4. Stay up for as late as possible the first couple of nights.

I am currently dying right now from sleep deprivation, but in order to get accustomed to the time change I'm trying to go to sleep no earlier than 8:30 so I wake up at a normal time. This will help prepare you for when classes actually begin and hopefully shorten the amount of jet lag since you'll then be getting a good amount of sleep at a somewhat normal schedule.

5. Google Maps is golden.

I've already used Google Maps relentlessly, and it has been less than 24 hours on this campus. Google Maps is key to use because you can still access directions after typing in the location and leaving WiFi.

We will have to see what is in store these next couple of days before the academics begin. For now, you can find me attempting to socialize and frequently getting lost.