After a really rough arrival involving a rude customs agent, being threatened with deportation, and getting lost multiple times, I finally arrived in Ireland. Not a very auspicious first day. But, I decided to make the best of it, and luckily I already knew two girls from Rollins who were also going to Maynooth. The bus ride to Maynooth from the airport revealed the beautiful green fields and hills Ireland is famous for. We passed through small towns that I couldn’t wait to explore. After arrival at the school and orientation, we were free to go to our apartments and unpack. Much to my relief, I got my own room and bathroom, with a common room to be shared with four other people. Luckily, my flatmates are wonderful, and we’ve already been on some great adventures together.
The town of Maynooth is charming, with incredible old buildings including a castle! And the campus is by far one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. I love history, so the fact that Maynooth is hundreds of years old is so exciting to me. Today we explored the town and campus, coming across a beautiful garden and even an old cemetery. the cemetery had the most stunning carved stone gravestones in the shape of Celtic crosses. We also went into town for a quick bite of lunch at one of the delicious cafes. I can’t wait to do more exploring soon!