Postcard from Abroad
Dear Global Education Office:
I could have sent a postcard with a photograph of the stunning cliffs of the west coast, the many majestic castles that dot the landscape, or, indeed, one featuring a pint of Guinness. However, I feel this photograph of me with one of my friends here in Ireland while at a Trampolining Competition in Dublin better summarizes my experience in Ireland thus far.
Indeed, I have had ample opportunity to travel all around this picturesque island, ambling through ancient castles and climbing rugged mountains. I've also enjoyed my share of the famous stout. However, it is my daily life here in college at NUIM that has most changed me and for which I am most greatful. In my time here, I find that I now go weeks without seeing the American friends I made in January. Rather, my mornings have been filled with lectures ranging from the sociology of Ireland to traditional Irish music, my afternoons have been spent bouncing with new friends at Trampoline training, and my evenings have consisted of choir rehearsals or chatting with my four Irish roommates. I’ve spent weekends with Irish students in the university’s outing and surfing clubs.
The decision to leave Duke was difficult, and becoming integrated in my new Irish life took time. However, the relationships I’ve formed here have changed me permanently. The world is huge and its people are dynamic. Many of the greatest moments in my education have occurred not at Duke or even the U.S., but rather in places much farther away geographically and far different culturally. As a result, my horizons have been incalculably extended, and for this, I am immeasurably greatful.
– Jayne Swank
Credit: Jayne Swank
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