A Summer Stint: Music Therapy and Realizing My Independence

by Perrin Thompson

 

When I considered writing a reflection on my time as an intern in Dublin, I thought it would be easy. However, when I sat down (multiple times) to gather my thoughts and begin telling my story, I realized how difficult it was to put what I had experienced into words. How could I convey what a life changing experience I had? How many amazing friendships I had formed? How much I had grown personally and professionally? And how much I had learned about myself being immersed in a foreign culture?

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Why I Chose To Go Back

by Christine Loughlin

Setting the Scene

As a kid, I used to wake up on a Sunday morning to the smell of bacon frying and the gentle sounds of Irish traditional music. “Low lie the Fields of Athenry…!” Listening to the stories told to me about my great- great grandmother’s journey from Ireland to America filled me with admiration for this strong woman. My Claddagh ring that I wear every day grounds me to my Irish roots through its tale of love and loyalty. Memories and stories like these as well as small, yet meaningful, pieces of Irish culture have been artfully woven into my life ever since I can remember. It helps, too, that Boston is a place where shamrocks and all things Irish are far from scant!

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7 Quirky Things To Do In Dublin This Summer

Dublin is a city with a host of traditional tourist attractions. But when you want something different, where do you start? Has Dublin got a funky bone? Knowing the feeling all too well, we got our thinking caps on. And did we think of things!! So when the mood strikes you why not try one of our quirky finds in Dublin’s bizarre but wonderful city. Trust us, it’s going to be super fun.

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To wish upon a dandelion

To Wish Upon A Dandelion: What I Hope To Achieve in Ireland

Dandelions are my favorite flower. They grow where they aren’t supposed to. Kids blow on the tiny white puffs as they squeeze their eyes tight making a wish and hoping whatever they hope for will reach the stars.

 

In a couple days, I jet off for Dublin for a three-month internship with Extreme Ireland. I’m ready for my time abroad, but I have some nerves.

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A Self-Fulfilling Prophecy: How My Dream Of Interning Abroad Was Realized

All it took was a list.

 

This list came out of a “dark” time in my life, a time where I, ever so melodramatically, thought my life was falling apart. Everything I knew about myself had been shattered, leaving me questioning where I was going and what I wanted to do with my life. I had just changed my major after questioning if that was the right choice. I trusted my heart and leaned on my faith in the unknown. I had absolutely no idea where my life was headed; all I knew was that I needed a new start.

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Why Intern Abroad?

Do you know what your education is worth?

I had a crisis midway through college, one I’m sure many of you have had. I realized my college education would mean nothing once I’m in the “real world.”

 

Now, hold on. College wasn’t a complete waste of time – it was a load of fun, first of all. I’m just saying a college education is useless by itself. In the end, it’s just a piece of paper saying I received a degree in history. And all that meant was that I took about 10 classes in the subject – hardly making me a “historian.”

 

The hard truth is no one is going to hire you as an events manager just because you received a 4.0 GPA and “planned events” for the culture club. An education has to be complemented with practical experience.

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I Dream of Ireland: Week One

“I Dream Of Ireland” is…

a campaign. It’s a message to the world, a declaration about travel and experiences abroad with Ireland, front and center, as a must-go on your journeys.

an opportunity. It’s a chance to get inspired by other people’s stories and to learn about experiences in Ireland.

a celebration. It’s a party and we’ll be providing the entertainment. Indulge us and join the fun (on FB, Twitter, or Instagram), whether it’s through our weekly competitions or if you just feel inspired. You’re invited, just use #DreamOfIreland for the world to see!

 

“I Dream of Ireland” will run for three weeks from March 4 – 25, each with a theme.

Week 1 (March 4 – 10): Take a risk. Challenge yourself.

Week 2 (March 11 – 17): Breaking stereotypes about Ireland.

Week 3 (March 18 – 24): Stories and memories from traveling.

 

Where is the magic happening? (To be updated throughout the week.)

Week 3 is underway. Check it out!


Thanks for stopping by!