While abroad, all the international students are staying on campus behind the main building.  The building is named Lennon House, and it has been on campus since the 1930s.  We are housed on two different floors, and each student has their own room.  On each floor, there are three bathrooms, one at each end of the hall, and one in the middle, as well as two kitchens.  I would definitely compare the living arrangements to an apartment style of living.  Having our own rooms has made living with new people much easier because you can be around everyone if you choose, but you can also have your own space and have alone time whenever you might need it. Being in a new country has also helped everyone get along.  We are all out of our own comfort zone and we are all able to relate to each other which has made this transition a lot easier.  Although we all wish to make friends outside of the group, being able to have people who remind you of home and knowing that there is someone always looking out for you is very reassuring.  We are from all different places, but that common ground we all share has made good friends already.   

First Impressions

My first impression of Ireland was most definitely a positive one. The roads, houses, people, and overall scenery  were all different and made me excited to explore more of the country.  Driving on the opposite side of the road, cobble stone sidewalks, and green, open fields are not sites you see while living in the city.  Neither is living on a historical landmark. It was exciting to see all of the pubs along the streets and how many different shops and everything they have to offer. I also noticed that there where a lot of American style restaurants such as, McDonalds, Abrakabra and Road House. Overall, the town is extremely beautiful, with a few reminders of home and I can't wait to explore more of it. 

Orientation was not only informative, but it also gave us all a chance to see where we will be studying for the next few months.  During orientation, we attended a cookout where we got a chance to meet and interact with the Irish students. We also got to meet with the head of the student union and were informed on how we are able to get involved with extra curricular activities and be informed of the events going on around campus.  Because all of our classes are in one building, it was easy to see where all our classes would be while on the tour and it made the "first day of class" anxiety die down.  Orientation helped all of us become more well informed about the campus, and also gave us a chance to see new faces and meet people we will be taking classes with.