August 30th, 2015 | Uncategorized
For most people, birthdays are a day filled with family, friends, presents, and birthday cake. However, this year I got a little bit more than that. For my 22nd birthday, I hopped on a plane to Ireland, where I would start a year long adventure.
Some asked if I was sad to be leaving on my birthday, but the anticipation and excitement of coming to a foreign country, experiencing a new culture, and developing new friendships was definitely a worthy trade off.
Leading up to my departure, several people told me how friendly the Irish were. Before even landing in Ireland, I realized how accurate that statement was. On my flight, the nice man next to me gave me his neck pillow because he noticed that I had fallen asleep in a painful-looking position. I was shocked that he was willing to give up his personal neck pillow to a complete stranger. I can’t say I know anyone that would be willing to sacrifice his neck comfort for a random person. After this random act of kindness, I realized that it was only the beginning of meeting such kind, friendly people.
Although the neck pillow was an awesome birthday gift, it was the people I met arriving in Ireland and Belfast that truly made the day so special. Meeting the other scholars, as well as the Sport Changes Life family, I realized I spent my birthday with my original family, as well as my new one.
Victory Scholar: Sarah Benedetti
Present University: University of Limerick
US League: NEC
Club/Community Partner: University of Limerick Huskies
Alma Mater: St. Francis College
Sponsored by: Teamwear Ireland
