Van Gogh’s Magic & Glendalough’s Beauty

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Tran Le

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Tran Le

<i>Pronouns:</i> She/her <i>Home Institution:</i> Cypress College <i>Expected Graduation:</i> 2023 <i>Major / Minor:</i> Business Administration <i>Study Abroad Location:</i> Dublin, Ireland <i>"Hello" in your host country's language:</i> Dia dhuit <i>Program Provider:</i> NOCCCD Study Abroad Program <i>Identity:</i> Asian/Asian American, First-Generation American, First-Generation College Student, Community College Student, Transfer Student <i>Future Career Goals:</i> As a business administration major with a keen interest in finance, my future career goals revolve around gaining expertise in financial management and strategy. I aim to work in a dynamic and challenging environment where I can apply my analytical and problem-solving skills to create sustainable solutions that drive growth and profitability. Additionally, I have a deep passion for travel and aspire to work remotely so that I can explore new cultures and countries while advancing my career. My ultimate goal is to establish myself as a successful business professional who can balance their work and passion for travel, while making a positive impact on the world. <i>Top 3 Goals for your time abroad:</i> My top three goals for my time abroad in Dublin, Ireland, are centered around cultural exploration, gaining new experiences, and personal growth. Firstly, as this is my first time traveling outside of the United States, I am excited to immerse myself in a new country and explore its history, culture, and way of life. I hope to visit various landmarks, try local cuisines, and engage in outdoor activities to get a true taste of what Ireland has to offer. Secondly, I am looking forward to gaining different perspectives on life and work by interacting with locals and fellow international students. I believe that exposure to diverse ways of thinking and living can broaden my horizons and help me become a more open-minded individual. Lastly, I am eager to become more independent during my time abroad. By living in a new environment, I hope to develop self-reliance, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that can benefit me both personally and professionally in the long run. Overall, I believe that studying abroad in Dublin will be a life-changing experience that can help me grow both as an individual and as a business administration major.

Imagine stepping into a world where colors dance and brushstrokes come to life, where you can feel the passion and emotions of an artist through his art. That’s exactly what I experienced when I visited the mesmerizing Van Gogh exhibit. As I entered the immersive room, the air crackled with excitement. The room was transformed into a vibrant canvas, with the artist’s most famous paintings enveloping me in their beauty. I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed with joy and awe as I witnessed Van Gogh’s masterpieces, such as “Starry Night” and “Sunflowers,” in a whole new light.

Another unforgettable adventure was our class excursion to Glendalough, a place of stunning natural beauty and rich history. We embarked on a hike through lush green trails, surrounded by towering trees and the songs of chirping birds. The air was crisp and invigorating, and with each step, I felt my excitement grow. As we reached the pinnacle of the hike, a breathtaking view greeted us: a serene lake nestled amidst rolling hills and ancient ruins. The shimmering water reflected the beauty of the surrounding landscape, and I couldn’t help but be captivated by its peacefulness.

Glendalough not only enchanted us with its picturesque scenery but also served as a window into Irish history. Our knowledgeable guide shared fascinating stories of the monastic settlement that once thrived in this very place. We learned about the brave monks who sought solace and spiritual enlightenment in this secluded valley centuries ago. They built magnificent stone structures, including the famous round tower, which still stands tall today, a testament to their enduring legacy.

As I immersed myself in the history of Glendalough, I felt a sense of connection with the past. It was humbling to stand in the footsteps of those who had come before me, to witness the remnants of a civilization that had thrived in harmony with nature. The tranquility of the lake and the whispering winds seemed to carry the stories of generations past, as if urging me to appreciate the beauty around me and to embrace the lessons of history.

The Van Gogh exhibit and our journey to Glendalough brought me immense joy, but they also presented their own trials and challenges. Standing before Van Gogh’s artwork, I felt the weight of his struggles and battles with mental health. It reminded me that even the greatest artists faced their own hardships. Similarly, the hike in Glendalough tested my physical endurance and determination, but the rewards were well worth the effort. These experiences taught me that life is a tapestry of excitement, joy, trials, and individual growth, and that through exploring art and nature, we can find inspiration and a deeper understanding of ourselves.

#VanGogh #Glendalough #FEABlog