Tag Archives: Mitchell Scholars Program

Belfast: Part 2

For the first time this year, I spent the holiday season away from home.  And though I missed Wisconsin (a place often known to my Belfast friends only as the setting of “That ’70s Show”), it was a true delight … Continue reading

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Having the Craic

Sheep: these cute, fluffy (arguably much softer in my imagination than in reality), rather nonchalant animals welcomed me to Ireland when I arrived with my family in August to see the sites before I settled into Trinity to begin my … Continue reading

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Wells of Oil, Pots of Gold

A chara, My winter holidays are kicking off earlier than those of the other Scholars. I’m currently enjoying an overnight layover in London (complete with shortbread shaped like Scottie dogs and an enchanting night at the circus). This time tomorrow … Continue reading

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Belfast: Part 1

My time in Northern Ireland has been a series of pleasant surprises. It began when I boarded my flight to Belfast, a bit nervous, having not traveled abroad for the better part of a decade. I was excited not only … Continue reading

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Life in Belfast

Living and studying in Belfast is proving to be an amazing educational and formative experience. Prior to this year, I had only been outside the United States once for a few days so I am very thankful for the opportunity … Continue reading

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Luck

I’ve only been in Ireland now for about two and a half months, but I’m starting to appreciate the laid-back modus operandi here. When asked by a lecturer to give a typical Irish saying that describes the culture, my fellow … Continue reading

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The Excitement of Learning Something New

I’ll never forget the first time I learned about the American civil rights movement. I was in the 5th grade and we were allowed to choose our own topic for a history presentation from an exhaustive list of events. I’m … Continue reading

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Theorizing Ireland

Unfortunately, I must admit that I am not, by my very nature, an optimist. I am instead the cliché “realist.” I worry too much, plan too much, stress too much and think too much for optimism to settle deep within … Continue reading

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Mitchell Experience: Reflection 1

When I first arrived in Belfast the climate and the landscape met my expectations—it was cold and drizzling rain with beautiful hills and valleys as far as the eye could see. I thought I would be alone for the first … Continue reading

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Gora Mila Maith Agat

“When asked if my cup is half-full or half-empty, my only response is that I am thankful I have a cup.”  — Sam Lefkowitz Today is Thanksgiving! Now, for somewhat obvious reasons, Thanksgiving is not a holiday that is celebrated … Continue reading

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New Adventures

I knew that I could look forward to my time in Ireland when, upon landing at Dublin’s shiny new airport, I was greeted by free luggage carts. That’s right: when moving to a new country, a free luggage cart (are … Continue reading

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Reflections on Northern Ireland

I arrived in Belfast sleep deprived and dazed. Frantic packing and an overnight flight had me in need of a home-cooked meal, coffee, and a warm smile or two.  Luckily, the Irish island is filled with all three. I spent … Continue reading

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