There were a number of reasons I decided to put this journey into a blog:

1. To possibly help others in a similar situation
As I started looking into applying for veterinary school and everything it entailed, I felt overwhelmed. It helped to find people in similar situations on forums and blogs, and many of my questions – from the application process to the nature of interviews – were answered that way. Moving to a different country is a terrifying and exhilarating idea to me. Perhaps in this blog I will be able to answer some of the questions that come with such a huge change.

2. So that friends and family could follow me on this adventure if they so chose
It’s not always easy to keep up with someone in a different country. It’s also not always going to be possible for me to call everyone at home and tell them everything they may want to know about what’s going on here. Hopefully this blog can keep my loved ones up to date in-between calls and visits, and whenever they feel like checking in.

3. To have an outlet (if time allows) from studying/school
I’m cautiously optimistic in hoping that I will have some time for creative outlets such as keeping up this blog. I know, I know. I will be studying… a lot. BUT, people have to have a little fun, too! And I’ll be in IRELAND so I kind of need to get out there a little and explore and of course, write and post pictures about it on here for you!

4. For something to look back on when it’s all over
Of course I’ll have my memories but this blog could serve as a sort of scrapbook/diary of my thoughts, feelings and adventures throughout my stay in Ireland and my path through veterinary school.

So stay tuned, folks! Somehow, this is all really happening.