Here’s a fun fact about me: October is my favourite month. Back home it usually marks the wonderful changing of seasons, and an inexplicable feeling of comfort as the weather grows colder, the leaves change colour, and Halloween draws closer; bringing with it spooktacular spooktacular fun. October in Waterford was markedly different. The weather remarkably stayed quite mild, with the only hint of seasons changing being the slight decrease in nighttime temperature and a more frequent occurrence of rain (no complaints here). There were hardly any decorations to suggest that Halloween approached, a sight that usually begins rather early back home and was sorely missed by me this year. Though I kept my eyes peeled there did not seem to be any events to mark Halloween, or perhaps more appropriately, Samhain, aside from pub centred events which although a time honoured tradition, did not peek my interest (a very non-Irish statement to be sure). Do not take this as a negative experience though, as my Autumn wishes came to fruition through the kindness of one of my volleyball teammates, Daniela. Due to her generosity I spent a weekend with her family in Dunmore. I was treated to a community tradition called “Apple Day” which involved the making of apple sauce and apple juice from fallen orchard apples, and eating fresh, homemade, donuts that I helped roll and cutout. As if that wasn’t enough, I was also able to get some more exploring (and exercise) in by walking the Dunmore cliffs- the photos don’t even begin to do them justice, but I had to share the beauty that I witnessed.

• Ralie G.
  

  

  

  

  

I have been in Ireland only a month so far, but in that time I have met some amazing people from Belgium, Brazil, Australia, Canada, and of course Ireland. Together we have been exploring what Waterford and other parts of Ireland has to offer. On September 27^th, my friends and I rented a car for the weekend and drove up to Galway and discovered around that area. Then we drove south to a couple castles and eventually to see the Cliffs of Moher. That was the highlight of the weekend trip as the view along the cliff’s edge was incredible. I watched people sit on the edge of the cliffs, dangling their feet over the 700ft drop. We also drove to Dunmore Cave and to Kilkenny Castle.

The building I take my classes in at Waterford Institute of Technology is a neat building because of its history. It is comprised of 19^th century and early 20^th century buildings, which include a chapel. Being able to take courses in this building makes for an interesting experience as I am surrounded by history and learning.

I am looking forward to the next 3 months here and what other adventures I will have the privilege of going on.

Ben G.