As I prepare for my semester abroad in Maynooth, Ireland I am reflecting on my past experiences of visiting Europe and how I can fit into the environment. While I identify as American and female, my portrayal of my appearance can be abrasive to other countries (or even other states within the USA). From my past experiences, I know that the prevalence of bright colors, patterns, and shorter clothing is generally not accepted abroad in Western Europe. I previously made the mistake of packing skirts (without tights) and my floral dresses which made me stand out in small towns even during the summer. With this in my mind, I must balance the expression of myself with the expectations of the country I am living in. This approach demonstrates respect for the people and understanding of how they live.
Another challenge with identity abroad can be the unpredictable US political climate. I hope to encounter people abroad that will openly discuss American politics without a hostile tone which can often be found even in the United States. I would like to emphasis that American identity is not directly related to the current politics but rather something culminated over history, culture, and region. Along with American politics, I wish to understand Irish and European Union politics from the people involved in those decisions. As I learn about Ireland and its history through courses at Maynooth, I will be able to gauge how it led to a creation of their identity.
Overall, I hope to bring my identity into the Irish climate in a positive way that allows both parties to learn about the other’s. I want to learn what aspects of life an Irish person considers to be distinctively Irish and how that is or is not present when I am at home in Winter Park. I look at it as an extensive learning opportunity that I will only have once in my life. As Maynooth has many International students, it is the perfect melting pot to discover not only Irish identity but many other European and Asian cultures as well.