Reflecting on the Emerald Isle

When I was younger, my grandparents went on a trip to Ireland. They came back with these beautiful photos and stories of the country and how amazing it and its people were. I knew from that moment that at some point in my life, I wanted to visit Ireland as well. The opportunity to not only get experience with travel journalism, but to also visit the place where I knew my family came from.

Visiting Ireland was like something straight out of a storybook or a dream. Every day, waking up in Dublin and Galway felt like magic. I felt so deeply connected in Ireland. The people and culture was so inviting... allowing everyone to feel immediately welcomed and have almost a sense of returning home. 

While on this trip, I was able to learn more about journalism -obviously- but I was learning so much about the places I was in. I learned more in depth about Claddagh, which is more than just a namesake ring... its an entire part of County Galway, known for being one of the oldest fishing villages of Ireland. I learned the importance that storytelling has to Irish culture, their unique sports, their rich traditional music and dance, and so much more. I will forever be thankful for what this study abroad has taught me about journalism and storytelling, and even the producing side of everything and the experience of managing a project like this one.