Finally in Galway

Just a few days in Galway and I am in love! Our Linfield group arrived on Wednesday.  We were all tired and just wanted to get to our apartments. However, we arrived during lunchtime and we couldn’t check in until the lunch break was over. Instead of waiting in the cold, we moved to the laundrette and waited. A couple of us went to Dunnes (an Irish retail chain) to grab us some lattes while we waited.

Suitcases in the laundrette where we waited for our lattes.
Waiting in the laundrette with our suitcases.

When we finally were able to check-in, the first thing I did was take a warm shower. I really needed it after the long flight. Tia, Joe, and I met our fourth roommate! She is also from the states. After that, we went out to buy some bed sheets, covers, and anything else we needed. At around 6 p.m., we all met up to go grab some dinner. Honestly, I don’t remember much because I was tired.

Morning selfie with students on the way to the NUIG.
First day of school selfie!
Terryland Castle in Ireland surrounded by flat green fields.
Walking past Terryland Castle on our way to the university.

The next morning, we had to be up to get ready for our orientation. During Orientation, we were able to meet other international students. After this part of orientation, a couple of us took the campus tour. My favorite part of the tour was going to the Quad! Of course, I took MANY pictures.

The Quadrangle at National University of Ireland Galway
Views from the university.
The Quad at the National University of Ireland Galway.
Our tour guide with Tia and Joe!

Later that night, the university had a karaoke night for us at Sult, which is the college bar on campus. At first, it was pretty calm. I kind of wanted to sing, but I didn’t want to sing by myself. My roommate, Brooke, also wanted to sing so we decided to sign up for karaoke together. As our turn was approaching, I started to get nervous, but I was not going to back down. We sang “Sk8ter Boi” by Avril Lavigne. Some of the students in front also sang along with us and cheered us on. I had so much fun that night and don’t regret singing in front of strangers.

Students singing at a college bar on Karaoke night.
Singing at karaoke night at the college bar with my roommate Brooke.

On Saturday night, Brooke, Tia, and I decided to go out to one of the pubs with live music. 1. Because it was the weekend. And 2. We wanted to go out before classes started. We walked around, and kind of got lost. However, we made it back to Eyre Square and walked around looking for a place to go in. We then saw a couple of other students we knew! Somehow we ended up at the 1520 Bar.

Let me tell you, it was a great choice because we saw John Gaughan perform! All I know is that he is a local musician and he is great! He performed some covers of songs, but he also performed two of his original songs. One of the songs is called “Streets of Galway”. When I tell you I felt this song in my heart and in my soul, I am not joking. You were able to feel his emotions from his lyrics and his singing. So yeah, I became a fan. He also shared one of the videos I posted on my Instagram story and he shared it on his page and gave me a small shoutout!!!

John Gaughan singing at a local night club.
John Gaughan performing at 1520.

Loving this city and can’t wait to explore more of it!

Jess