In May of 2017, I decided to go outside of my comfort zone and travel to Ireland with some of my closest friends as part of the UNCP Mass Communication study abroad program. Many of us had never been on a plane, much less, ever traveled out of the country.

 

Prior to traveling, we were required to enroll in a eight week film appreciation class. During class time, we discussed film making techniques and processes. In addition, once every week, we would watch a popular Irish film while eating traditional Irish foods. 

 

The entire trip lasted 13 days as we traveled throughout Northern Ireland. We visited many historical landmarks, and met with film professors at Trinity College and the Dublin Institute of Technology. 

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While in Ireland, we spent most of our 13 days in Dublin. We also visited Killarney and Cork. Everything that you have heard about the beauty of Ireland is true! There is nothing like it! I got the chance to witness the beauty of the country firsthand while touring the Ring of Kerry. 

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Towards the end of our trip we went to the Cove, which is in Queenstown. This was a small seaside town where the Titanic made it's last stop before sinking. To wrap up the trip, we explored the Blarney Castle.

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During this trip, the lyrics ''I can't see this world unless I go, Outside my Southern Comfort Zone,'' in Brad Paisley's song, Southern Comfort Zone, kept coming to my mind. Everyday that went by, the more and more I realized how true these lyrics were. There is no way that you can experience this world if you don't get out of your comfort zone. This world has so much to offer! Why not go and explore it? 

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