After visiting Croke Park last week, we were all interested in watching a game that Brad and Dr. Lada changed our schedule to go see the quarter finals of the men’s Gaelic football game this afternoon. Considering the fact that I had no idea what Gaelic football or Hurling was before the tour of Croke Park, I was very fascinated and intrigued by watching a sport that I have never seen before. Imagine toddlers playing soccer: they break every single rule possible (touching the ball with hands to be specific). That was Gaelic football from my perspective. However, it was very intense and strategic in a way that teams can stack up the points by making the one point ‘field goal’ that the goalie can not possibly reach. I really enjoyed watching this game; it was such a unique experience and watching an amateur sport that is nationally praised with the Irish fans was a cultural experience that I will never forget.

Week one is done and we have 5 full days left. Time flew by fast but every day was filled with new experiences. Before leaving Pittsburgh, I did not know much about Ireland. We had a quick lecture about the history and culture with Liz but other than that, I knew I wanted to learn by being in the country. After spending a week, I quickly learned that Irish food is very heavy. Moreover, through our company visits to Google and Davy this week as well as the guest lectures such as the day lecture with Dr. Kelly, I learned how Ireland, specifically Dublin, economically grew/recovered in a rapid rate in great detail and depth that I wouldn’t have gotten back at home in a classroom. Most importantly, I learned that national and hometown pride is a major part of Irish culture. GAA is run solely on volunteers and amateur players yet club Gaelic Football and Hurling teams from every community are one of the most cherished assets of Ireland’s culture. Not only that but the natural beauty of this country is nothing but impressive. I could sit on the rocks of the cliff at Howth looking into the blue ocean and feeling the breeze all day.

Tomorrow is a holiday here called “Bank Holiday” and we are taking another excursion day to Kilkenny, the Wicklow Mountains, and Glendaugh. I am excited to see more of what this country has to offer!