Bonnie Gross

Sorry it’s been such a long time, but here are the updates!

This past Sunday I had time to walk around the city of Limerick. A bus from campus takes you straight there. I had one of the best meals of life (posted below). It was a beef and Guinness stew! On the side is a “toasties,” or as us Americans might say, “grilled cheese.”  The dessert was not too bad either. A sticky toffee pudding with hazelnut gelato.

After the amazing lunch we went into a Sweet Store.  Thinking they would have some Irish candies we went inside. Turns out it was full of American junk food. Yes, I am talking Pop Tarts, Cheese-Its and Hershey’s. (I guess the stereotypes of fat Americans are true).

We then went over to the local museum (The Hunt Museum) which is the picture of the two horses. It was small and very nice. Then we walked around the Shannon River where you get an amazing view of St. Johns Castle. (Also pictured below) We are touring St. John’s Castle in February so more to come on that!

I officially started classes on Monday. For the moment I will be taking Irish Folklore, Irish Traditional Music and Dance, Film Studies and Early Modern Ireland History. For the music class we have a choice between signing, dancing, the Bodhrán (Irish tradition drum) or the tin whistle. The choice is hard because I play the drums, but I really want to learn the penny whistle solo of My Heart Will Go On to whip out at parties. (I know my life is so rough)

Also it is strange how different everything is in terms of social life. Many Irish students go home for the weekends and instead go out to the bars and clubs Monday – Thursday. Most clubs in Limerick have all their specials on these nights. For example if you wear a hat to the bar on campus on Monday you get a 3 euro pint.

The biggest problem is feeling like a freshman all over again. I was the dork holding up the campus map, frantically searching for classes while holding my Limerick Orientation bag. Someone could tell I was an international student just by the panic in my eyes. Although scary, I did find all my classes and the main buildings.

Later in the weeks we get to sign up for clubs and societies here at UL. I already signed up for the International Society and the Outdoor Pursuits. The outdoor one allows you to use the indoor rock wall and go on outdoor trips such as climbs and hikes with friends. Tonight I think I might join the kayaking club. Other ones that peaked my interest were the Comedy Society and Tea Appreciation. (For obvious reasons)

This weekend I hope to go back to the Milk Market and explore Limerick. Who knows, maybe I’ll check out those Thursday deals at the clubs.