Thanks to the study abroad program through SPC, I was given the opportunity to explore Ireland and Northern Ireland. I’ve never left the country and craved a new experience where I could also educate myself. I had no idea what to expect. I was warned about culture shock and the possibility of intense homesickness, but the pre-departure meeting put most of my fears at ease. Once we started our adventure, I was so wrapped up in all the new sights and experiences that I didn’t have a care in the world. We were blessed to have a wonderful teacher and tour guide steering us in the safest and most stunning directions. Traveling is scary, especially out of the country, but when you have two trusted people handling all the logistics, all you have to do is show up and enjoy the journey.
     We got to see Giant’s Causeway, Blarney Castle, and the Cliffs of Moher. There were many towns to visit, including Galway, Cork, Cobh, Dublin, Derry, and Kilkenny. Everything was so breathlessly beautiful; there weren’t many words that could do justice to the sights we bore witness to. While all the scenery was amazing, I was stunned not only by the landscapes but by how the people in Ireland live. Belfast was eye-opening, to say the least; the culture shock from walking through a town so different than anything I’ve experienced in the United States will stay with me forever. I truly learned something new about myself and/or the world around me every single day. This was the best experience of my entire life, and I count the days I will return to Ireland. When I looked into studying abroad, I wasn’t sure I would actually go through it; now, I can’t imagine not being on that trip. All I can say to any student considering studying abroad with SPC is do it. Give yourself every opportunity, take a risk, and go find some adventure in a way that makes you feel safe and gives you a team. I cannot thank St. Petersburg College enough for giving their students these options and experiences. I can’t wait for the next one! – Ashley, SPC Ireland Study Abroad Program, May 2024