Back to the land of Emeralds

When I studied abroad 11 years ago, I never thought I'd be able to stay connected to the University of Limerick. I'd always have memories, but wasn't sure if I'd be back. Thankfully, due to the past two jobs I've held, I have been able to not only continue working with UL, but visit it as well.

This past week, I headed over to Ireland for a few days to visit campuses and have meetings in Limerick, Maynooth and Dublin. The last time I was in town was 2008 (oddly enough, working with the same Universities) so it has been a few years, and Limerick has sure changed a lot!

Landing in Ireland was such a fantastic feeling. It was like coming home.

As soon as I got into the taxi and was chatting up with the driver, I realized how lucky I was to have spent time in this country. Ireland is one of the most friendly places I have ever been...you may consider them nosy, but in reality, the people I come to know just want to get to know you and your story. That's what I love about them. Their genuine curiosity.

Limerick, as a town has not changed much. The University however, is very different, modern, filled with a lot of new building, the longest foot bridge in Ireland and some great, new programs. I went to visit a few areas. Limerick is choice for a lot of amazing programs. I loved going back and seeing it all over again. They have a fancy shop, so of course, I came home with a new, nostalgic hoodie (so American, I know).

BUT the best part of the entire day was getting to see two of my favorite friends again. Friend P and Friend L are still in Limerick and even though it's been years since we last spoke, it is one of those friendships that transcend time. I loved getting to see them again and I love that study abroad brought us all together.

After a one short day in Limerick, I took the early train (first time on an Irish train! Holla!) to Dublin to meet up with a colleague and head to Maynooth. I've been to campus before, but I really liked it so much more this trip. It is made up of an old and new campus and the older side, is just so beautiful. There were field flowers all over the place, an amazing church and such historical buildings. It reminds me of a mix between a campus like Limerick and Trinity.

Afterwards, I headed back to Dublin. I'll admit, compared to the rest of Ireland, Dublin is one of my least favorite cities. It's just so filled with tourist in a way different from places like London or Paris. Dublin is incredibly small, so the crowds really stick out because they're all concentrated in the same areas.

It was a gorgeous day, so walking around was fun. It doesn't take a lot of time to get around, so I was able to see most of Dublin. I ended up hanging out at the Brazen Head, Dublin's oldest pub house, grabbed a Guinness (the only time I ever drink it is in Ireland) and some Irish Stew.

I was a little tired afterwards, so went to go see Jurassic World since the Euro makes movie going so much cheaper.

I spent the night on Trinity's campus and got up early the next morning to tour the Old Library and see the Book of Kells. That library was so amazing. And I'm so glad I got there early because as soon as I left, the crowds came in.

After grabbing some breakfast, I headed out to the airport, saying goodbye to Ireland one more time.