The majority of the first semester is on its way out and I’m so excited to get home, relax a bit and see family and friends for the holidays. Thanksgiving is around the corner so I thought I’d write a post acknowledging and thanking the people that I’ve met here in Carlow thus far.
The main pic for this post is me and my guy Jake. Jake is an assistant coach on women’s and men’s basketball team and I’d be lying if I said he doesn’t love the game of basketball. The first time I met Jake was before one of our practice sessions but I really got a chance to sit and talk with him during the women’s preseason tourney games. In talking to him, I learned about how one small conversation with the head coach a year ago got him an opportunity to experience all that Ireland has to offer. He’s had a good amount of coaching back in the states from various colleges on different levels. The first thing we had in common was how confusing everything can be here after a couple weeks. Fast forward to 3 months later, Jake and I have become good friends. He’s been a great mentor to me and pushes me every week in my games. We’ve even been in talks about running a camp for the local kids some time in the new year. I’m thankful for Jake and all his knowledge about the game of basketball, giving back to the community, and becoming the best me.
This next person I’m about to mention is one of the most annoying people I’ve ever met in my entire life. His name is Jason. Ok, I’m definitely kidding. If anyone, I’m the most annoying person that he’s ever met. The amount of time I spend asking him every question there is about our course assignments. But I met Jason in the first week of classes at Carlow. In that week, I found out that he had lived in New York for a couple years but he is from Ireland. He taught me numerous Irish slang and has suggested some of Ireland’s popular food venues. Jason has been a huge help to me in course work and getting adjusted to Ireland. Sometimes we need that extra push to get through the rough days and Jason has shoved me right through em. I am thankful for Jason and all his help and positive outlook every day.
