May 27th, 2014 | Uncategorized
As I attempt pack all of my belongings into the two suitcases that came over with me back in August (an utterly impossible task at this point) to move to our new home for the summer, I can’t help but be absolutely amazed at how quickly this year has gone. It seems like yesterday that I was just hugging my parents and friends goodbye, assuring them I would be back in a quick 9 months.
While I wasn’t wrong about the 9 months flying by, never did I think that I would even consider staying here longer. Yet, here I am, and I couldn’t be happier. The experience of these 9 months have been the greatest of my life thus far and truly life-changing.
From being given the opportunity to study at the prestigious Trinity College Dublin and expanding my network of friends and colleagues on an international scale, to reclaiming my lost love for basketball, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Sure, there have been a fair amount of ups and downs and several tough decisions, but the support I have received from those around me and back home has helped me through.
I am so thankful for the opportunity to give back with a sport that has given me so much. When I picked up my first basketball nearly 20 years ago, I had no idea that it would take me around the world and allow me to have an impact on so many lives. I have made countless friends, many of which have become a second family. Sport has certainly changed my life to say the least. While my adventure in Ireland is not yet over, this year and this experience will always have a special place in my heart.
