Today, we went on a hike through the Southside Slopes. It’s a steep residential area in the heart of Pittsburgh, and we managed to capture the best views of the city. Later that day, we went to see a Riverhounds game. It was my first professional soccer game, and the crowd was electric, even though they lost 0-1. This also wraps up the Pittsburgh portion of the program, which is unbelievable since it felt like yesterday that I was moving in. I’ve realized how much I’ve grown both personally and professionally. One of my biggest takeaways has been becoming more confident by stepping outside of my comfort zone. Working with new people has improved my communication and teamwork skills, and I’ve learned the value of listening to different perspectives.

As we prepare for our departure to Ireland, I’m feeling a mix of excitement and curiosity. I’m looking forward to experiencing a new culture, seeing places I’ve only heard about, and learning more about Ireland’s history firsthand. I’m especially excited to explore the cities and landscapes, try new foods, and meet local people. I also think traveling with the group will make the experience even more memorable because we’ll get to share it together.