My second week in Dublin was filled with new experiences, both through traveling outside Dublin and my internship. With each day here I feel more and more at home. Whether it’s the people or the experiences I know it’s going to be very hard for me to leave. Even though it is only the second week here, I feel like time is moving so quick, and don’t want to even think about it being over.
I continued this week at my internship. I’m beginning to feel more confident in my role and am creating amazing connections with the children and staff. Whether it’s planning activities, just becoming a part of their classroom’s daily routines, or just being able to laugh and hang out with the kids. It’s so special to be part of their daily lives and making an impact on them is why I want to be a teacher. There is nothing more rewarding than making a kid laugh or feel better when they are hurt.
This week, we traveled to Kilkenny and visited the Kilkenny Castle. The castle was filled with historic and beautiful sights. We were able to go shopping and have a delicious lunch in town. We also visited the Wicklow Mountains where I was speechless at the views as we drove up to Glendalough. My favorite part was seeing all the sheep and cows just roaming in the fields. Even in the pouring rain, Glendalough is one of the most beautiful places and has such a special history. I can’t imagine what it would have looked like on a sunny day.
I also got to meet Kayla’s family that lives only 5 minutes from campus. We spent the day watching her cousin’s soccer game and having lunch at a restaurant around the corner. They were the loveliest people.
This week allowed me to experience so much. I appreciated the chance to see more of the country while continuing to grow through my internship. Every place we visited added something unique to my understanding of Ireland, and each day at the day-care gave me more experience that I know will be valuable in the future.
