What. A. Week! Not going to lie, it was definitely a long one, but very rewarding.
Started off with our first day of classes. Seeing as how I intend to gear my major towards international business, I loved the fresh insight into the logistics of business operation and management. The class was informative and engaging, as Professor Wilke included personal anecdotes that kept the room engaged. Later that day, we made our way to the EPIC (Irish Emigration) Museum. This field trip held a special significance to me as I was able to obtain a special insight into what my great grandfather must have experienced when he immigrated to the United States. Delving deep into the motivations, challenges, and triumphs of Irish emigrants, the museum illuminated the diverse array of experiences that shaped the lives of those that left their homes in pursuit of better opportunities, my ancestors being some of them. It was fulfilling and rewarding to see their triumphs and fostered a sense of greater appreciation for everything they sent through to ensure my future success.
As Tuesday loomed, I was left with a sense of impending dread. My internship starts tomorrow. However, my nerves were quickly soothed as I entered my workplace. My boss and coworkers did everything they could to ensure my comfortable and smooth transition, even including taking me out to lunch! The rest of the week followed a similar suit as I continued to get used to the new style of work and workplace. Emails, posts, and newsletters filled my workdays and left me feeling accomplished by the end of my days. I am so excited to see where the experience leads in the future.
Despite the school and work, I was able to spend time with friends exploring all that Dublin has to offer. Walking along Drury Street, Grafton Street, St. Stephen’s Green, and Dawson street filled our afternoons. We celebrated Jenna’s birthday at Sophie’s on Tuesday night as we all debriefed our internships. We ate a variety of different cuisines and soaked up as much as we could. Yet, no day was complete without a VERY NECESSARY ice cream at Murphy’s (we’re quickly becoming store regulars). It has also been extremely fun getting familiar with the bus system and sitting at the top front of the bus every time we can. From there you get the best views of the city, and it has quickly become our favorite spot during our rides around.
The weekend was equally rewarding as we traveled to the Wicklow mountains, Kilkenny, and Glendalough. I loved the opportunity to explore more of Ireland’s incredibly lush landscape while building stronger connections with my peers. I am eagerly looking forward to next weekend’s west coast trip (my favorite part of Ireland!!). See you then!
