Living Local

In order to maximize my experience while I'm in Ireland, I would really like to combine some of my personal practices from home with local practices that I integrate into my routine. I have a good running routine at home, and I like to to yoga to center myself at least a couple times a week. I think integrating these little practices into my life there will keep me grounded and give me a sense of place.

As far as living like a local, though, there is so much to do in Belfast. There are tons of shops because it is a pretty urban environment, I'm also really excited to live in a place that has as much character and history as Belfast does. I know that there is a lot of sensitive history to it, but I am really excited to become somewhat a part of that because I've never experienced and learned about strife in that way first hand. Belfast is definitely a cultural hub in many other ways--music, dance and drama play a big part in their lives, as do film and visual arts, literature, architecture and fashion. They also love sport, which I would like to be involved in, though they don't have sports on Belfast campus, they do in the community. They love football, cricket, rugby, hiking, cycling, surfing, and traditional Gaelic sports.

The landscape is also phenomenal, I can't wait to go on hiking trips with my fellow students and admire all the beautiful mountains, lakes, and beaches of Northern Ireland.

The arts are a big part of the culture of Belfast, both in the community and on campus. I could not be more excited to be immersed in this kind of artistic hub. I just want to soak in all the influence, and really grow as a person and as an artist. This is the main local attribute that I want to become like a true local in. There is so much to do and see in Belfast--workshops, galleries, openings. This will be a truly incredible opportunity to experience raw art and talent.

Living in Ireland will be interesting because I will not be living on the Belfast campus, I'll be living at Jordanstown which is about 6 miles away. The commute between campuses will be a cultural experience because I'll have to use the rail or bus. I'm actually kind of excited about this because I'll be able to see and meet a diverse crowd of Irish people, rather than just university students. I like traveling; it gives me time to think.

I would like to be able to travel with friends that I make on campus, both in my classes and through extracurriculars. I know that in Belfast the nightlife is also a big social activity--going to clubs and bars is important in Irish culture. I love dancing and going out, so I'm rather excited for that, though I don't think I'll drink quite as much as my Irish brethren. I just think, ultimately, there is so much to do in Belfast, really anything under the sun. It truly depends on who you align yourself with and what you choose to do. I'd really love to just experience as diverse a collection of moments that I can. I'm really trying to expand my horizons, and I think being in europe will be amazing for that.