Hello from Galway, Ireland!
So, the countdown has begun. I go home in less than a week, and I have no clue if I’m ready. I feel like I spent lots of my time here missing my hometown, my family, my friends, but now that I’m at the end, I am realizing just how much I’m going to miss it in Galway when I’m back.
I’m having final meet-ups with my new friends, and it aches a lot. Of course, I’m going to make an effort to keep in touch, but it’ll be different. We’ll be an ocean away, instead of a walk. And, more than anything, I’m just so glad that I met so many people, from so many places, who are worth missing. But that doesn’t change that I do.
In my last blog, I talked about how I missed the small-school atmosphere that I have at home, but the small school comes with a small town. Although cozy, there’s not much to do. It’s not alive in the way that Galway is. And, I’ve gotten used to having so many things to do on weekends, new friends and possibilities all in the heart of the city. I’m going to miss the atmosphere—dreamy, nautical, full of music. Going to miss the buskers, the late-night treats, the fast-flowing River Corrib, and even the rats that run along the most beautiful pathway in town.
All in all, I just feel overwhelmingly fortunate that this was such a positive experience, and just as fortunate that I have lots to look forward to when I get home. It’s the best situation, even if it aches. I’m so glad that I studied abroad, and I’m beyond grateful to have had so much backing and support from my parents, my home university, the FEA program, and everyone who has made me a braver person.
I am more myself than ever. I hope that feeling lasts.
Love, Ella