Postcards from the Emerald Isle

One of my biggest dreams for studying abroad in Ireland is to experience the culture in a real and meaningful way, not just as a tourist. I want to see how history, folklore, and everyday life all blend together in one place. Ireland feels special to me because of how connected it is to storytelling, land, and tradition, which are things I’ve always been drawn to. I’m excited to explore both cities and rural areas and see how people interact with their environment. I also see this trip as a chance to step outside my comfort zone and grow more independent. Overall, studying abroad in Ireland feels like an opportunity to slow down, learn, and truly be present in a new place.

My specific goals for this study abroad go beyond academics, although that’s still a big part of it. I want to connect what I’m learning in class to real places like museums, historical sites, and landscapes. I also hope to improve my communication skills by interacting with people from different backgrounds. Another goal of mine is to challenge myself to be more confident and adaptable while navigating a new country. I plan to document my experience through journaling or writing so I can reflect on what I’m learning along the way. These goals are important to me because they focus on both personal growth and learning outside the classroom.

This trip connects strongly to my past, present, and future goals. In the past, I’ve always been interested in different cultures and how people connect to their environment, which is why I chose to study anthropology. Right now, this study abroad feels like a chance to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world setting. Looking toward the future, I see this experience helping shape my academic and career goals, especially if I want to work in cultural preservation, education, or international spaces. Ireland’s emphasis on history and storytelling reflects the type of work I hope to be involved in one day. This experience feels like an important step toward becoming the person I want to be.