Jacob Richards | Spring 2024
Hello from the Emerald Isle! My name is Jacob Richards, and as a first-time international traveler exploring the charming streets and scenic landscapes of Ireland, I hope to give you a glimpse into my life abroad as I try to make the most of my opportunity.
I’m studying electrical engineering, and this was the last semester I could participate in a study abroad program without delaying my graduation. I chose to spend my time at the University College Dublin (UCD). Ireland has always been a country I wanted to visit due to the rich history, the amazing stories I’ve heard, and who doesn’t enjoy the Irish accent. The mix of rural countryside and international cities all in a country the size of some of our states piqued my interest, plus UCD is in the top 1% of universities across the globe. On top of it all, I have always heard how different colleges across the world operate, so I am excited to finally test my cognitive flexibility to see if I can be as successful in a foreign setting.
I have always thought culture shock was exaggerated, but it struck as fast as lighting the moment I got off the plane. From struggling to understand the only language I know to feeling like a first-time driver, I quickly became a believer in culture shock. Due to a heavy Irish accent, I had trouble understanding what the security woman at customs said. I mistakenly got into the passenger seat when I picked up a rental car since the driver’s side is on the right side of the car! Then, there was the difference in actually navigating: the street signs and lane markings are different and streets are often unmarked, but fear not, with Google Maps and patience – it is possible to navigate the country safely.
With a car, a couple weeks before classes start, and several Airbnb* reservations, I was ready to get out of the city where most of my time during the semester will be spent. Going around the country from Galway on the west coast, Cork on the south coast, and finishing at Dublin on the east coast with countless stops between, the trip included scenic country roads lined by stone walls only wide enough for a compact car and a half, breathtaking coastal vistas, and a multitude of historic sites, some dating all the way back to the 12th century. Though driving is stressful, the scenery makes it worth it.
To my surprise, the food exceeds what’s served in the states. With ease of access to fresh ingredients from every corner of Europe and all the meats being sourced from local farmers, every dish was an elevated version of the American equivalent. On top of great food, the local patrons are friendlier and more open than I have ever experienced. Everyone is happy to talk and quick witted, lending to a mood of exuberance.
It wouldn’t be a trip to Europe without castles and cathedrals, of which Ireland has an abundance. Steeped in history, many of them are from the 11th and 12th centuries and saw hundreds of years’ worth of battles and wars. Blarney Castle, King John’s Castle, and Kilkenny Castle rank amongst the top of the list. As for cathedrals, you have St Patrick’s, St Mary’s, St Canice’s, and the list goes on. The architecture is stunning, rivaled only by the rich history. They are open to visitors and the local churchgoers are lucky enough to be able to attend services in such beautiful and historic buildings
After completing my two-week tour of Ireland, I realize how much there is to see and learn, not just here but across the globe. A sense of wonder has been revitalized as I look forward to the magnitudes of opportunity ahead. Checking into my campus dorm and relinquishing my mode of transportation was a bittersweet moment as I look forward to experiencing campus culture and while staying put for longer than before. Receiving a bus pass and learning how cheap flights across Europe are allows me to hold onto my sense of freedom knowing that I can easily take weekend trips to tens of different countries, each hopefully as unique and rich as Ireland has been thus far.
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