The Emerald Isle

Hi my name is Tanya Cheeseman and I’m currently studying at the University of Ulster, Coleraine campus.  Not being Irish myself, my expectations were based mostly off of stereotypes, stories and movies.  In preparation for my departure from the States, I was constantly asked “are you nervous?” “are you ready?” “are you excited?”  Honestly, in answering the questions, I was never fully confident in my reply, “a little” “almost” or “yeah”.  With no idea of what to expect, how could I not be nervous?  Scared to leave my familiars behind, no amount of preparation would truly allow me to be ‘ready’.

Upon descent from the clouds, fields of endless shades of green shown through and at the very second I could finally answer the final question with confidence: yes, I’m excited!  It was just how I had imagined it; possibly even better than the random internet pictures, as these imagines were finally my own.  Having done some exploring and traveling the excitement is slowly hitting me more and more.  Although the weather is unchanging and predictable: cloudy, slight chance of peaking sun, highs in the mid 40s & 100% chance of rain, the idea of a new adventure the next day give me motivation to continue to explore.  After visiting some sites already such as Port Stewart, Coleraine, Dunluce Castle and Giant’s Causeway, I have found everything to amaze me.  I find myself taking pictures of grass and walls, which seem common enough, but in this new perspective is fascinating.  At some points I even find myself thinking that the surroundings, being so picturesque, resemble a green screen ready to snap me back to reality at any given second.

With classes just beginning this week, I continue to experience new things everyday which makes me wonder if the excitement will ever wear off.  Having had a few “ya live, ya learn” lessons, getting acquainted with the new culture is easier that I had anticipated.  Everyone is very approachable, which brings the comforts of home a little closer.

Off to make travel plans for the days and weeks to come.

Cheers from across the pond!

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