Everyone always says “the people make the place”, which is not something I necessarily agreed with. In this case though, it is definitely true. I can without hesitation say that I have found my best friends as a result of this trip. Although I believe I would have still had a great time in Ireland by myself, the people I have surrounded myself with have made this trip the best time of my life.
Throughout middle school and high school I had a hard time making friends, and loyal ones at that. I can confidently say that I have become best friends with these people in the matter of 2 weeks spent together in Dublin. Meeting these people has made me realize that there are loyal, selfless, amazing people out there who will always be there for me. Therefore, I want to dedicate this blog post to the amazing people I have met on this trip.
To begin with, Nicole Lioumis. Nicole was the first person that I met on this trip because we were on the same flight out of Newark. Nicole is someone that I instantly clicked with. We have the same sense of humor and always laugh at each other’s jokes. Nicole is someone who is always down to do last minute things with me, and I appreciate her for that. I know that I can rely on her to go shopping with me, take an intense hot yoga class, or go to a club with me. I can always rely on her to put a smile on my face.
Nicole and I enjoying a night out
Next there is Sammy. Samantha Binswanger is the Charlotte York to my Carrie Bradshaw. Sam is definitely the mom of the group. She never leaves anyone behind and will always drop what she is doing to help someone. She is one of the most selfless people I have ever met. Sam is also someone that I look up to so much, she is so smart and hardworking. I can connect with Sam on deep levels because of our past, which has made us close. I appreciate the fact that I can open up to her and she is always curious about my life.
Me and Sam buying ourselves flowers
And then there’s Miss Catherine Dineen. Where do I even start with Cat. Cat is like a sister to me already. She has the funniest sense of humor and never fails to make everyone laugh. Although she makes us run literally everywhere, I appreciate her determination and how motivated she is. Cat makes sure that everyone knows how much she loves everyone, and I love that about her. It is impossible to not get along with her.
Cat and I taking a fat nap on the bus after holding baby sheep.
Ariana Carrero- Ariana reminds me so much of my little sister. She is so calm and gentle. She makes our friend group complete. She is the perfect mix of outgoing and shy, which is why I love her. She brings calmness to the group and everywhere she goes, which is what we need. Ariana is also someone that I strongly admire because of how hardworking she is. I am so glad that she and I have created so many good memories together already and I hope she knows how amazing she is!
Us frowning because we were so sad we had to leave the baby sheep.
Lastly, there is Bella Schraa. Although Bella isn’t one of our roommates, we have gotten so close to her. She has the most infectious laugh and the funniest personality. She is so down to earth and is the most honest person ever, which I greatly appreciate. I love how outgoing she is and how easy it is to be friends with her. Bella is always down to join us on our crazy adventures, and is super reliable.
Bella struggling to hold the baby sheep
I could go on about these amazing people for ages, but I will leave it at this, the people, most definitely, make the place.
And to my friends reading this, I love you!
xoxo, Laur <3
A picture of all of my beautiful friends!!
Lauren, I cannot begin to express how much your words mean to all of us. We’ve only really known each other for three weeks and I already know that these friendships will last a lifetime. Thank you for being you. Your kindness, humor, and tenacity don’t go unnoticed. You are such a light and I am so incredibly lucky to be experiencing this journey with you by my side: lost wallets, grumpy baristas, broken Zara tops, and all.
PS: Hot yoga Sunday after The Academy, please and thanks!
I can’t heart this post enough! Friends truly do make a place way more memorable. I’m delighted to know that you’ve already made connections that will last a lifetime.