I Got the Job!
The reality of the situation is that this job was no guarantee; I was notified beforehand that previous interns hadn't been punctual, responsible, or effective communicators, and in turn, the company was reluctant to take a chance on a "student/trainee" again. (As we all know, in the business of broadcasting, these three qualities are absolutely essential!)
However, I am thrilled to share that I was offered an interview based on my resumé, and then offered the job immediately after my extensive, 45 minute interview!! :)
While on the job at Another Avenue, you can count on me to keep you updated with the various projects I work on—from initial shoot to final edit!
Unfortunately, I need to wrap things up and get going on my two, 8-page papers (which are due by the end of this week! Eek!) No worries, though. With my sources in order and outlines prepared, it's just a matter of flourishing what I've already written!
Happy Birthday Mom!
However jealous I am that I can't be back in the States to give my mom a bear hug and a kiss on her day to be the queen, I'm sure that my dad and extended family are making her birthday a wonderful and memorable one.
Below is one of my favorite pictures taken with my mom and dad...back in the day:
Happy birthday mom! :) I love you so much!
An Unusual Friday Morning
So as to avoid deportation (lol) I ventured over to the Irish Immigration Office to acquire a green card. Sounds like a harmless little trip to Dublin's City Centre, right? Wrong! Because of the outrageous number of people applying for visas and green cards every day (with a limit to how many can actually be administered per day, mind you), people begin lining up outside of the office at 6 A.M.!
Proud of myself for effortlessly waking up at 5 A.M., then arriving at exactly 6 A.M., I was shocked and dismayed to find myself 81st in line! While hundreds of people showed up after me and we all stood outside, single file, waiting for the process to begin at 8 A.M., it was a great thing that I had the fouth Twilight novel handy! ;)
At any rate, I won't bore you with the details of this "adventure", but to make the long story short: I did not receive my green card until 11 A.M.!
Afterwards, I thought I would cheer myself up with a trip to Eason's Bookshop, which does the trick every time. I am highly anticipating "Morning Sunshine!" by Robin Mead, which is set for release in early October. I suppose I keep circling Eason's every now and then just hoping it'll magically appear on the "New Release" shelves ahead of time...
Before I go to the gym for the next few hours and press forward with my day, take a quick look at my new Fitness and Field Development articles!!
How I Spend My Gaelic Days
Taking into consideration that it’s the beginning of the week, not a lot of unusual and exciting things are happening (hey, I still have a regular, regimented student life here at the university even though I’m in Ireland!) However, I thought it might interest you to have a bit of a look into my schedule and general lifestyle abroad.
In addition to academic work at Dublin City University, I am a member of “Boost”, an on-campus personal development society, which I will be utilizing for the promotion of my platform “T.O.N.E. : Teaching about Obesity, Nutrition, and Exercise.” I look forward to advocating for making the lifetime commitment to both health and fitness—in body, mind, and spirit—and I have to admit...sharing my story and message abroad is a real thrill!!
Above all else, however, I am exceptionally proud to have made my own health and fitness the forefront of all I do. It is no secret that my journey has been a difficult and tedious one. Since I first began taking my lifestyle choices seriously as a junior in high school, I have made consistent progress. However, the time has come for me to make living my platform my full time job, and that is exactly what I have resolved to do. This mission of mine, which came into its clearest focus a mere four months ago, is my undertaking for a lifetime. Frankly, I couldn’t feel more elated and purposeful. It is this very passion that I share with every child, adolescent, and adult I encounter.
So there you have just a snippet of my agenda here on the Emerald Isle. I will be sure to update you as nearing events unfold.
Continuing on such a positive note (forgive me for my flighty transition!)
…I finished the third installment of the Twilight series just last night, haha. I’m an avid reader, and although I originally scoffed at such a “silly, overrated, waste-of-time novel” (as I once called it), Twilight has easily become my latest guilty pleasure! :) Because I am now moving on to the very last book in the series, I find myself hesitant to read it as quickly as I’d probably enjoy doing!
I felt this same way at the end of both the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings series, which are still some of my favorite works to date. My other favorites include Zola’s The Ladies’ Paradise, Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms—and ladies! If you’re interested in a quick, fun, and rather insightful read—Act Like Lady, Think Like A Man by comedian Steve Harvey is something I always recommend with utmost enthusiasm, lol.
Well, this has really been a fun range of topics to write about, but if I want to buy that fourth and last installment of Twilight before my next class begins at 2 P.M., I’d better get myself in gear!
Keeping You All Posted
- Feeling defeated by pesky common cold symptoms? Check out my new Fitness article: "Overcome That Cold!"
- Find out about the latest buzz surrounding nighttime eating in my most recent Field Development update. Get the hang of curbing unnecessary snack cravings now!
Northern Ireland Know-How
We began our journey in Belfast, where we passed the very construction site of the Titanic on our way into town, and had an extensive tour of local sights. My first impression was that the architecture in Belfast is very elaborate and Victorian—resembling London.
In fact, Belfast feels thoroughly British in more ways than one; it has "The Belfast Eye" ferris wheel, an exact replica of "The London Eye", and locals I encountered had an English accent and even referred to themselves as "being wholly British in every way".
However, I think what interested (and even startled) me more than anything about Belfast is the tension and blatant segregation that is still burdening both Catholics and Protestants living in this area. In case you're unaware of the tremendous bloodshed that only recently ended in Northern Ireland with The Good Friday Peace Agreement of 1998, please refer to this webpage for a thorough explanation.
Photos of famous murals painted by Irish Republican Army (IRA) activists during the times of trouble:
Putting it quite plainly: there is a strong, negative energy that can be seen and felt in Belfast. Protestants and Catholics are not integrated in any way that was made apparent. They attend separate schools, participate in separate sporting events, and even frequent separate swimming pools.
Making matters even more dramatic is the fact that locals insist on building walls below ground in cemeteries, coming between Catholics and Protestants even after they pass...
Another point of interest is the collection of 81 segregation barriers that exist in Belfast today. Every evening at 6 P.M., the gates are closed to prevent people from entering neighboring, possibly hostile communities during nighttime hours. The 2009 Community Relations Council Report states that these walls are "structures which remind us of the hostility, fear, and anger of the past that remain alive".
Two photos of the so-called "Peace Walls":
How sad to see such hate within one community, where every home and church must have barred windows and an infinite number of other security measures to protect the people inside them. I am fortunate to be able to say that I have never felt unsafe in any large city I have ever lived in; neither New York City nor Dublin. Belfast, on the other hand...is certainly not a place where one should walk alone or draw too much attention to oneself!
On a lighter and much happier note, I had a fabulous time testing my bravery by crossing the 200-ft.Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and taking in the breath-taking scenery at Giant's Causeway! Both sights are along the northern coast of the country.
Photos of the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and surrounding beauty:
Below are a few of my favorite photos from Giant's Causeway!
We spent Saturday evening through late Sunday morning in Derry (or Londonderry, as it is commonly referred to as). This is yet another place of social and political tension, but it was not nearly as disconcerting as Belfast. In fact, my friends and I agreed that we felt perfectly safe in Derry—in a group, of course!—despite occasional signs of division between the two communities.
On the other hand, one local I engaged in conversation with freely offered that, as a Catholic, he avoids Protestant areas if at all possible for fear of being attacked. I suppose you cannot fully grasp and understand a situation unless you experience it first hand...
After leaving Derry, we stopped by Drogheda Town just south of the Northern/Southern Ireland border and visited St. Oliver Plunkett Catholic Church. Oliver Plunkett was the very last martyr to die in in the face of English persecution. Interestingly enough, St. Oliver's head is kept in a golden shrine inside of the church. His extraordinarily well-preserved head (which has not been tampered with or maintained in any way), is considered to be a miracle.
*PHEW!*
I know this has been somewhat of a long-winded blog entry, but thanks for hanging in there! All things considered, I am so happy and grateful to have explored Northern Ireland. I experienced a small slice of history, took a little step outside of my comfort zone, and reaped the great reward of learning, growing, and challenging myself to see things in a new and dynamic way.
Until next time!
Group Outings Galore
I felt that the show was very moving and unique in the way that it was presented; it consisted of four long monologues delivered by three different characters. The Irish Times described it as "a confessional play about the many frustrations and occasional joys in life", and I'd have to say that this interpretation is spot on.
On a different note...
I'm going to Northern Ireland this weekend!
Our entire study abroad group will be travelling to Belfast tomorrow morning, where we'll tour the city and engage in conversation with members from each political party at The Parliament Buildings. On Saturday and Sunday, we'll make our way over to Derry City and Drogheda Town for other planned events.
It looks like I won't have a reliable internet connection until Sunday evening again...No worries, though! I'll be sure to update with pictures and details of my weekend excursion ASAP! :)
Also...a BIG THANK YOU to my 1,019 visitors!
Extra! Extra!
Back in the Swing of Things
Above are two photos of the castle itself. It was built in the year 1228 in the village of Cong, which is about 20 minutes away from Galway. Although Cong is within short driving distance from the Atlantic, the water you see in the picture is actually Lough Corrib, Ireland's second largest lake.
On Saturday morning, I went on a castle tour and nature walk within the 350 acre estate. Here are some of my favorite snapshots:
In the afternoon, I enjoyed a lake cruise on Lough Corrib and had a guided tour of Inchagoil Island. On this island, two churches still stand: one that St. Patrick founded, and another built in the 12th century. If anything can be said about this area of Ireland, I would call it a place of historical interest and immense natural beauty! Below is a photo outside of the 12th century church:
On Sunday morning, I had a rather interesting adventure at Ireland's only School of Falconry! That's right: I went on a "hawk walk", flew a falcon off of my arm, then let it land on my arm again, too! Falconry is said to be the oldest sport in the world; it originated in the Far East around 2000 BC.
After a rather uneventful train ride home and one good nights' sleep later, I can only look back on this weekend and realize how grateful I am to have the opportunity to travel, explore, and share my adventures with you!
Going to Galway
I'd also like to take a moment to reflect on the events that happened 8 years ago today on 9/11. Eventhough I'm here in Ireland, my heart goes out to the families who were so severely affected by this tragedy.
Snack On This!
Of course, this got quite an enthusiastic reaction out of the other students. Our professor just laughed and shook his head; I think I might've been the only one in the room who was on the same page as him!
Let's face it: the "American appetite" is easy to poke fun at, but in reality, it's a very serious problem. We could debate day and night about what has gotten our country to this point, and I do not intend to downplay the complexity of the ever-raging obesity epidemic, but I think that we can certainly point out two contributing factors:
- Outrageously large portions
- Food that is chemically enhanced with preservatives, additives, and other unnatural ingredients
Why else are men and women from across the Atlantic not only thinner, but also much, much healthier? The secret is revealed in their sensible portions and natural, whole food items. There are countless benefits to eating food in its original, unaltered state. The typical Western diet, full of processed and packaged items, only robs our bodies of the nutrients and enzymes they need!
That being said, I think I'll step down off of my soapbox, put down my megaphone (lol!), and simply encourage you to give "living like a European" a chance. Set aside the extra helpings and choose unprocessed, whole food items. Test out this lifestyle for at least one week, and I guarantee that you will both see and feel a difference!
Check out my latest Fitness Forecast update to get you started on your European challenge! ⇒ "9 Easy Ways to Control Portions"
Ciao for now!
An Ongoing Debate and My Insatiable Interest
The main points of concern are:
- Social matters (including abortion, gay marriage, and euthanasia)
- Taxation
- Foreign policy
- Workers' rights
The Irish, in particular, are concerned about losing certain legal guarantees that they've previously enjoyed. Anti-Treaty groups argue that the EU will impose new rules on taxing, minimum wage, and other miscellaneous "family issues" (i.e. abortion --- you have to understand that Ireland has always been a very conservative country by tradition. For example, divorce was only just legalized in 1995 by a tiny margin of 50.3% / 49.7% !)
On the other hand, supporters of The Lisbon Treaty maintain that solid relations with the EU are essential. They see "change" and "progression" as being one in the same.
My interest in this debate probably stems from the fact that, more and more, I'm noticing striking differences between politics in the U.S. and Ireland, especially in terms of what issues the public prioritizes.
Also, my upcoming work at a political talk radio station will most likely focus on the build up and outcome of this debate! Not to mention the fact that I absolutely love political controversies and contentions...!
As I wrap up today's entry, my friends from the study abroad program are beginning to look over my shoulder, asking if I'm done writing yet (lol!). It's now 7:15 P.M. on the Emerand Isle, and after a long day of classes, we are looking forward to dinner and good conversation in the City Centre of Dublin!
Until next time!
Very Irish Passtimes
Hurling is a distinctly Irish sport—it has been around for over 2,000 years and is Europe's oldest field game. If possible, I think I've witnessed more enthusiasm for this event than any other in the States...and this is coming from someone who has been surrounded by wild Notre Dame fans her entire life! :)
In other news, I had a relatively relaxed weekend enjoying city life and taking part in various group tours. The overall pace of a typical day in Dublin is very slow and easygoing compared to New York City, or even Columbus, Ohio. Locals never rush themselves or seem pressed for time, and what I find most interesting is how patient the Irish are while waiting in long queues!
Hopefully this willingness to wait (and wait!) will rub off on me, and maybe even tame my usual restlessness in slow-moving situations...? I suppose this really will be a growing experience in more ways than I had originally imagined, haha...
I'll be sure to write again soon about some very pressing political matters being debated and voted on in Ireland right now, but in the meantime...
"Cheers!" to the 600 individuals who have visited my website in only its first week of being published!!!
All in Good Craic
What I have found most striking thus far in Dublin is the pride, nationalism, and sense of "Irish identity" that locals exude. Men and women from around the area are eager to tell you all about their city, country, family history, and political leanings. They affirm what one local described to me as his "boundless love for the homeland" at any opportunity given to them. It really is a beautiful thing. And the more I think about it, the more I realize: I'm jealous! There's not one doubt in my mind; I am so very proud to call myself an American. But why is it that, in general, people from the States seem so cool and indifferent towards their own national identity?
But on to some more light-hearted comparisons/contrasts. In Ireland...
- People drive on the opposite side of the road. Reminders to look in the right direction for oncoming traffic is painted onto the sidewalk!
- It is not unusual for a van to pull up in front of a butcher shop, where a man will then get out of the car, hoist a large hog onto his shoulders, and carry it inside. That being said, grocery stores are not the norm in Ireland, either. Instead, you'll find small specialty shops all within close proximity to each other.
- Don't expect to see ketchup on the table at a restaurant! In fact, many restaurants don't even carry it.
- European coffee is as strong as American espresso!
- You might find it hard to believe that tipping is neither required nor expected. In fact, it can take locals by surprise! The other day, I thoughlessly left a tip after having had exceptional service at a South William Street cafe. As soon as I stepped outside, the waitress called out the door to me: "You accidently overpaid!" LOL
- If you need to use the restroom, say "loo", "gents", or "ladies' room" instead. The words "restroom" and "bathroom" will get you quite a few raised eyebrows.
- There are no parking lots, which makes the city much more aesthetically pleasing.
Quick "Get You By" Glossary:
Craic = fun, a good time = "We had good craic last weekend."
Cheers! = good bye or thank you = "Cheers mate!"
Fair play = affirmation/validation of what was last said
Conas ata tu? = How are you? (Gaelic; commonly used)
Ta me go maith= I'm doing well. (Gaelic; commonly used)
Brilliant= awesome/cool
So= used at the end of a sentence in response to what was last said ("You're right so")
Me= oftentimes replaces the word "my" = "I leftme jacket at me house"
Lift= elevator
Loo/Ladies' Room/Gents' = Restroom
My New Life as a Dubliner
You'll be happy to know that settling in at Dublin City University has proven to be a (nearly) seamless experience! I've participated in several orientation activities with the other 31 members of my study abroad group, which have helped me to both adapt and assimilate to the overall environment, local customs, and city landscape of Dublin.
In many ways, Dublin does not feel quite as foreign as I might've originally expected to be—except for the beautiful flower boxes displayed in almost every window, which you'd NEVER dream of finding in New York City, haha. But because it tends to be a popular tourist stop, you find that people from all over Europe visit the City Centre's most famous landmarks: the Grafton St. shopping district, St. Stephen's Green, the Liffy River, Parnell Square, etc.
HOWEVER...in terms of Irish culture and customs...Dublin feels far, far away from home. This is certainly not a bad thing; beginning to understand and live the lifestyle of a "true European" is only introducing me to an entirely new world of people, opportunities, mind-sets, ways of life, and world views. Needless to say, I feel so excited to be apart of such a compelling, yet challenging life experience. I'll be sure to post some interesting similarities and differences between life in the U.S. and Dublin in my next entry!
In other news, I started class yesterday. The overall academic environment in Ireland seems much more relaxed than in the States. Before we headed off to our first course, though, our orientation leader warned us:
"Americans tend to be a bit... (choosing his words very carefully) ...PAMPERED when it comes to the school environment back home. However, we think you'll find that your coursework at DCU is both demanding and engaging on many levels."
Interestingly enough, I felt that the opposite was true! Fordham's coursework is very rigorous; it demands a lot of independence, personal responsibility, and self-motivation out of its students. Maybe I have just been well prepared for this adventure? :)
Well, to sum up, I think it's safe to say that I've gotten off to the right start. And who knows?...Ireland just might have begun to feel a little more like home!
