You will never forget this place

Where do I even begin with my experience abroad at UCC? The emotions I felt going in were overwhelming and had my mind spinning in a whirlwind of excitement and panic.
But I thrived over there.
I was going through an intense part of my life. I had very recently come out to my parents and was just starting to really become comfortable with myself. The five months I spent in Cork (and traveling elsewhere) helped me to discover the confidence and strength that I always knew was buried inside of me somewhere. It was the happiest time of my life.
Of course the classes were great, but to be honest, that's not what I remember about my stay. I remember the craziness of RAG week, playing hockey and going to the hockey ball, the beautiful campus, and all of the amazing people.
I admit that just about all of the friends I made during this program were American but I met this fantastic Irish girl at UCC who I continue to stay in contact with. It turns out we were both going through some similar situations and we're now very good friends.
Maybe a lot of this is me rambling at this point but Cork will always have an important place in my heart. Every time I put on my UCC hoodie, I feel like I've returned to that place of confidence, strength, and happiness.