Orientation

Yesterday was our first official event, orientation. I had been looking forward to getting things started and meeting some new people who I would be in class with. I met a bunch of people from all different early start programs, and from all across the US. The orientation was stuffed full of info, like how things were going to work at the school, to what each early start program would cover. We also learned a bunch of things we could get involved in, like different clubs and societies. For the most part, I am super excited to get started with class, which sounds super nerdy, but the orientation got me pumped to learn about "Irish archaeology". Plus, all the early start professors seemed really laid back and fun.
Later that night and after the orientation, some of the student activities people had set up a little get-together at a local pub for all of us early start students. The pub was really fun, it was a laid back way to meet more people in the program, plus there was free pizza! It was a good chance to sit with some of the people I had met earlier and get to know each other better, plus we met even more people, some of which were in my own early start program. The walk back to our flat gave me and two of my roommates a chance to practice our Irish accents, and I am terrible at it. Oh well.
This morning, I finally went to get groceries. There is a Tesco just two blocks away from where I am living so it was a quick walk there and back. I found a bunch of things I needed and it didn't cost too much either! Now I just need to get a phone...
Cheers!

The Journey Begins

What a long day of travel! I was terrified of traveling on my own, in particular being a girl but I have survived so far! After a quick lunch with my parents and a nearly teary good-bye (none were shed on my part!) I hopped on a flight from Chicago to Newark. The flight was delayed, then we sat on the Tarmac for a while longer before finally taking off. Upon landing the woman sitting directly behind me promptly emptied her stomach in a loud manner which was not enjoyable, I think there were a lot of people glancing my direction to see if I would loose it too but little did they know I have a stomach that can handle that stuff. We taxied around the runway for a good half hour or more before a gate opened and we were allowed off the plane. I made my connecting flight successfully after buying a magazine for entertainment and did not sleep a wink on the flight, no matter how hard I tried. At least I got to see some good movies! I made a new friend on the flight; the girl sitting next to me was a recent college grad and native of Dublin and we exchanged info before parting ways. I made it through customs and on my bus without any troubles other than the realization of what I was doing actually setting in. I got to the train station just as the train to cork was leaving, and had to wait another hour for the next train. The train was a bit late due to technical problems but because of its lateness I made more new friends. I met an older man who was on his way to pick up his grand kids to spend the day in Dublin. I also met an American woman who was on a trip to UCC through Notre Dame, and we ended up sharing a taxi from the train station to UCC. There were a few bouts of rain here and there in true Irish fashion but I managed to stay dry. I got to my room and checked in, and met my first of three roommates, Chiaping who is also an international student for the semester from Maine. Because I had nothing to sleep on/shower with, we set out together to do some quick shopping. I was able to buy bedding and bathroom things for really cheap which was rather nice and I grabbed some fruit loops to help hold me out till I can get some real grocery shopping done. By the time I got back to my apartment, it was about 3pm (cork time, 9am US time). I quickly made my bed and passed out for three hours. I am a little more awake now but I am excited to go to bed at the proper Ireland time tonight! I have a bunch of things to do still so more about cork and my room later!
Cheers!

Last week is shark week!

It's officially only one week to departure. Nerves are really setting in and I have finally started laying out the things I need to pack. My mom reminded me that I needed to call the credit card companies before I left and I found it rather funny that I hadn't thought to call them! I have always remembered to take care of it on past trips, but I guess I have been so much busier planning for this trip!
There is still a bunch of things I need to print and scan, but things are slowly coming together. I am still procrastinating, however the awesomeness of shark week has replaced the Olympics. I freaking love shark week and I am glad I get to see it before I go, talk about good timing! Not much else for now, I promise it will be more exciting in a week!

The Preparation

Hooray for the first post!
There has been lots to do to get ready for Ireland, and as usual, I have been busy procrastinating. The Olympics have defiantly been a big help with distractions. I think I have nearly watched every event broadcasting so far... I can't decide if that is an accomplishment or just sad... I think both.
There are only 15 days till I leave. 15 DAYS! I am unbelievably excited but also nervous. I have already had a few nightmares that involve forgetting important paperwork and being kicked out of Ireland (not fun). I haven't started packing yet, which is a daunting task. My goal is to fit everything into one big bag along with a backpack which is most likely ridiculous but it would be ideal.
The Olympics are calling to me, so that's all for now.