This has been my first study abroad program and time spent out of the US and has definitely been an interesting and amazing experience. From seeing one of the seven wonders to the world (Giant’s Causeway and Slieve League) to conversing with the different groups of people and locals of Ireland, cannot explain the feeling of being surrounded by those two sights including the rest of Ireland.

Engaging with the Irish culture and folk was intriguing. You could go up to most of the people and just start in with conversation. They were very welcoming. Though it makes me wonder if this was because I was American. That thought crossed my mind a lot of times when in conversation with the Irish. Yet it was always a warm and welcoming vibe when talking with most of the people there of all ages. When asked about ‘The Troubles’ as the Irish historically term it, the few that our study abroad group asked were pretty open to talking about it. Of course some were more passionate than others.

As of now given the long history of opposing sides of conflict between the Protestants and Catholics, it seems the youth and other present successors are trying to work towards a bridge of peace (though some will still hold their opposing fire not in agreement with this).

However, there was a good majority of folk that did not feel such indifference. They actually didn’t care and their attitudes of the conflict and ‘The Troubles’ was quite oblivious.

They just want everyone to get along.