After over seven hours on a plane to Dublin and a two-and-a-half-hour bus ride to Limerick, I finally made it to my new home for the next four months. Getting here wasn’t the easiest. I dragged my overpacked (and very overweight) luggage through the airport with the help of my family, who I already miss so much. Standing in the security line, I couldn’t help but wonder what the next few months would hold. Being so far away from family and friends feels surreal, but also a little exciting.
The flight itself wasn’t too bad. I had the whole row to myself, which felt like a little win. What I was most nervous about, though, was managing all my bags. Two giant 30 kg suitcases are no joke, especially when you’re on your own. The coach bus from Dublin to Limerick wasn’t the most glamorous (let’s just say the smell wasn’t great), but it got me where I needed to go. On the bright side, I met a classmate on the ride, another nursing student from the same university system, which instantly made me feel less alone.
Arriving at my apartment felt like a small victory. After dragging my bags up a slightly inclined path (truly fighting for my life), I finally found it: Apartment 54. Six housemates, my own room and bathroom, a balcony, and a gorgeous view of a farm. While I haven’t met everyone yet, it already feels like the start of something new.
I survived day one of orientation, and while the sadness of leaving family and friends behind is still there, it’s slowly turning into excitement. This is just the beginning of my study abroad journey, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me.
