Saying Goodbye

I can remember about one year ago this past April deciding that I would love to be given the opportunity to study abroad. Knowing very little about the process I filled out the application and submitted. Upon receiving the news that I had indeed been accepted into the Mercyhurst University in Dungarvan Ireland program I was very quickly overcome with joy. Little did I know on that April afternoon that my life would forever change. 

Upon arriving in Ireland I can remember stepping off the plane and saying out loud “my first breaths of Irish air.” With all 46 pounds of my luggage in hand we received our first of many Irish welcomes. After making it to the bus and staring at cars driving on the opposite side of the road, and fighting through a few yawns I remember wanting to look around at everything for fear of missing anything. When finally arriving in Dungarvan I remember seeing the “Welcome to Dungarvan Twin City of Erie Pennsylvania” sign and feeling just a bit more at ease. That sign has come to hold significant importance in my life as it incorporates both of my homes. 

Becoming adjusted to life in Ireland has been perhaps one of the most pleasant experiences in my twenty-one young years of life. The hospitality of all those we encounter has been unbelievable. One cannot simply not help but feel so welcome in Dungarvan. The phrase “you are very welcome here” has never before been so applicable. 

In the 71 days since leaving The United States of America I have had the opportunity to make some of the most incredible memories that I will forever cherish. One particular memory is the opportunity that I had to go horseback riding for the first time through the Irish countryside. Another memory that I will forever cherish was the experience of going deep below the earth into Mitchelstown Cave while in Ireland. Sunday mornings spent at St. Mary’s Church were most pleasant as it was a gentle reminder of all in the world that I have to be thankful for. Furthermore, it has been so enjoyable to everyday wake up to the beautiful sights of nature. Perhaps my favorite part of Dungarvan has been the short trips to the beach when one can take time to truly appreciate how beautiful this little town by the water sincerely is. 

Other memories that have made my time studying abroad most enjoyable have been our day trips around Ireland such as going to tour The Waterford Crystal Factory where I was in awe about the production of some of the most beautiful crystal in the world. St. Declan’s Holy Well and the Melleray Grotto were equally as breath taking as I felt both the natural beauty of the Irish landscape and the powerful grace of God. The Butler Castle was also a very interesting perspective on Irish history.  

I would be remised without thanking all of those who made this study abroad trip such an enriching experience. First, to the people who call Dungarvan home, thank you for your incredible hospitality day in and day out. You all made everything from buying medicine at the pharmacy to ordering a pint of Bulmers such a wonderful experience. To my classmates who turned into my friends, and then my family thank you for embarking on this journey together. I believe we have left our handprint on Dungarvan’s heart! Finally, thank you to my friends and family at home that have encouraged me to make the very most of the opportunity I was given. “Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand!”