To my Family & Friends

To my family & friends back home please stay safe during the hurricane! I miss you all and will be thinking of you.

My home away from home for the next four months is Leeside! The Leeside Apartments sit along the River Lee which runs throughout Cork. My apartment has two bedrooms. I have a single and my roommates Kathleen and Gracie share a double. We have a kitchen, eating area, living room and one bathroom. The best feature of the apartment is the view of the river from the common area and my bedroom.

1 week!

Tomorrow will mark one week in Cork! With about twenty-five new friends, a TON of once in a life time experiences, and being in a totally new environment, it feels like we have been here for much longer.  But I am loving every minute of it!

One of the most challenging, but incredible experiences I have had was the seven mile hike through the Gap of Dunloe.  Although the hike was physically draining the scenery was some of the most beautiful in the world.  We also took a boat ride through the Lakes of Killarney.  It was breathtaking to say the least! 

We also started school at University College Cork this week with our Early Start Classes.  We will take the Early Start class everyday for one month until the university begins their semester in late September.  I am taking Irish Literature.  With this class we have many field trips planned including a three day trip to Dublin.  UCC is one of the most stunning campuses I have ever seen.  I am thrilled to be going to school here! 

First Post

After a very busy three days, I finally have some time to relax and settle in a little bit. Yesterday we explored the Barryscourt Castle, the Jameson Factory and had dinner at a restaurant on the gorgeous beach.  It was a great mix of Ireland's past and current history and also the beautiful setting.

My favorite part of Ireland is the wide variety of landscapes and settings.  One minute you can be in the hustle and bustle of a busy city and just a ten minute drive and your amongst horses, cows, and the greenest grasses and trees I have ever seen.  Also, my apartment is located right on the River Lee and we are not far from the coast.

Right now, my roommates and I are working on getting settled in, adjusting to the five hour time difference, and getting to learn our way around Cork. So far, I am in love with Ireland and can not wait to see where else this journey takes me!