Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

I remember the warm radiance of the New York summer sun beaming upon our cap and gown clad bodies as we gathered on the football field for the last time. There we stood, one-hundred ninety-two teenagers, bright-eyed and dazed, celebrating the culmination of four years of discovery and holding tangible evidence of having survived American high school. Tucked beneath our facades of irrevocable joy, a feeling of fear naturally began to thrive; a fear undefined by pre-existing phobias and worldly frights, a fear defined by an excitement coerced by the unknown. Ten long months ago. 
 
I remember the first time I set foot in Chapel Hill after a twelve-hour trek down the eastern coast in a car filled to the brim with everything I thought I needed for the start of my new life. Basking in the loving embrace of my mother for what felt like the last time, I dove headfirst into life as a Tar Heel and braced myself for the impact of adulthood. My first semester was illuminated by newfound allegiances to college sports rivalries, late nights at the libraries, new friendly faces, feasts at the dining halls, office hours with professors, and parties along fraternity row. Eight long months ago. 

I remember the calm reassurances offered by my roommates Denise and Ewa as I browsed the internet in search for flights into Shannon. Seated on my lofted twin xl riddled with anxious tremors, their kind affirmations gave me the final push necessary to commit to a world outside of the one I had grown so comfortable. Four long months ago. 

I remember haphazardly packing all my clothes the night before my flight and rushing to the airport to catch my red-eye, a regrettable consequence of my avoidant nature. Upon meeting the other freshman from my program during a layover in Boston, I instantly recognized the shared sentiment and look in their eyes, the distant daze, joy, and fear as we embarked on our final stretch. Three long months ago. 

Less than a year after graduating high school and starting university, I approach the bittersweet end of my semester abroad. With much more to learn about finding my way as an adult, I figured I could lend a few pieces of advice to those who find themselves right where I was.  

1. Leave the Dorm. 

The honeymoon phase is real. For the first few weeks, the idea of being in a new nation and creating a new reality is gilded in gold, but it is natural to begin to miss the defining characteristics of what makes home home. As a quasi-adult, venturing to Ireland alone can be daunting, and while the dorm is warm, safe, and familiar, it is crucial to actively fight isolation.  

Check your e-mail for random UL events and don’t be afraid to attend them by yourself; try your hand at being outgoing, go ahead and romanticize island life, go to class, even plan a random weekend trip around Ireland. One of my favorite things about UL is how diversity is invited and welcomed. You will meet so many people with varying interests, backgrounds, and cultures, and ultimately, you’ll find yourself a little less alone than previously thought.  

Limerick is shrouded in whimsy with little quirks just waiting to be discovered. Don’t worry, it’ll be grand. 

2. Find your Tether. 

Prior to my arrival, I spent a lot of time wondering how to remain connected to my life back in Chapel Hill knowing that I could potentially return in the fall to an entirely different atmosphere. Despite being so far away, I found solace in continued conversations with campus advisors, organizing events for my pre-dental committee, and checking in on friends on campus. These efforts worked in tandem to encourage me to thrive during my time abroad and ease my way back into life in the States.  

I was often advised to distance myself from family to make being away easier; to call less and avoid longing, but I disagree. A strong tether isn’t a restraint, it’s a lifeline and a reminder of who you are and why you came to begin with. Yours might be staying close to friends and family, keeping up with your university clubs and events, or making plans for your return. Whatever it is, don’t forget to nurture it as you grow during your time abroad.  

3. Put on that Chef’s Hat 

There is no dining hall. This was a sobering realization and constant source of anguish for me. What do you mean there’s no daily rotating menu, ice cream bar, on-campus Chick-fil-a or midnight dining options for the psychotic crammers?  

With limited experience in the kitchen, studying here has forced me to tap into my culinary talents (I use the term quite loosely). Being able to prepare a balanced meal at the end of the day helps curate a sense of normalcy here and curb homesickness when my feeble mind begins to crave sweet American comforts.  

Use your resources. TikTok, YouTube, anything! 

4. Just Buy the Ticket! 

Full send. You don’t have to wait until you’re 100% ready, you never will be. You can worry about the nerves, the suitcases, and the budget after because nothing is more transcendental than making the first move. Ireland rewards courage and invites adventure and with its distant, but close proximity to the city center, UL is the perfect home base for your next chapter. 

So, dear future freshman, it’s never too soon to leave your world behind in search of the chaos, charm, and adventure that line these foreign streets. I remember the rush of each milestone, the goodbyes and likewise, I’ll remember this too — the treacherous grocery hauls back to my village, the brisk Irish rains, and the unparalleled feeling of becoming someone new in the Emerald Isle. 

Potential Photos (Your Discretion) 

1. Cliffs of Moher Trip with Hynan Travel Tours and UL Student Life 

2. First Time Seeing Brown Thomas and the Wolf in Person 

3. First Aer Lingus Flight from Boston to Shannon