A Girl’s Guide to Studying Abroad

Discover IrelandCheck out Cork’s top pubs.

Explore the Cliffs of Moher.Dive into Dublin.

Ode to Ireland!

November 2015

This Month’s Issue: Cork, Ireland

10 Tips To Lose Post-Abroad Weight

Come Trot with Us!

Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a place that only your dreams have taken you before. Dip your toes in the clear blue waters of the Australian coast; breathe in the smell of that fresh cup of Italian coffee from a quaint little café in Rome; dive off one of the tallest bungee jump locations in New Zealand and don’t look back! Wherever your fluttering heart desires to go, Globetrotter will take you there!

Welcome to our magazine: the first official study abroad guide for a wandering girl’s soul. Our mission as a “girls only” publication is to offer the proper guidance to help you along your jour-ney abroad. So, welcome to the Globetrotter family! We hope to provide you with a first look into the most popular places to study abroad around the globe while offering helpful advice within each issue for multiple destinations.

Here at Globetrotter, it is all about framing the experience for our readers. This will enable us to not only show you what we experienced for ourselves while in different countries, but also to properly illustrate the experience of others who have taken this leap of faith without a guide like our publication helping them along the way. Our goal is to support our fabulous readers from the early decision stages of going abroad (“jitters”), to the actual take off into another country (“bon voyage”), until the final return back to your native land (“homeward bound”). We strive to be the go-to travel magazine for adventurous students looking for an unforgettable experi-ence.

Introducing our first issue: Cork, Ireland! For those of you looking to gain some additional travel knowledge on the area, you’ve stumbled upon the right publication! Our very first issue features actual adventures in Cork from our Globetrotter staff, real photos taken while abroad, and stories that can either serve you as guides or informational tools to creating your own study abroad to-do list!

So ladies, pack your bags, buckle up, enjoy the ride, and let Globetrotter guide you into the fu-ture of study abroad!

Slainte!

~Teressa Capobianco

Letter from the Editor

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Kelly Coleman, Multimedia EditorMajor:Public Relations & JournalismFuture Plans: To live in NYC with my French Bulldog, GeorgeFavorite Place: ParisSpirit Animal: Marshall Eriksen, How I Met Your Mother

Meet the Staff!

Katie Nolan, Multimedia Managing EditorMajor: Journalism & Public RelationsFuture Plans: Hopefully I will be working for a magazine after graduation Favorite Place: Westerly, RISpirit Animal: It’s not an animal, but my spirit flower is a daisy

Teressa Capobianco, EditorMajor: CommunicationsFuture Plans: To become a writer Favorite Place: The shores of Brigantine, New Jersey Spirit Animal: Baby Giraffe

Georgia Lundberg, Business/Promotions DirectorMajor: Journalism & AdvertisingFuture Plans: I hope to eventually work for a major magazine publication in New York CityFavorite Place: The beaches of Positano, ItalySpirit Animal: Giraffe

Ashley Dellefave, Copy EditorMajor: JournalismFuture Plans: To pursue a Masters degree in Cultural Studies in Leuven, Belgium but above all else, to travel the worldFavorite Place: Dublin, IrelandSpirit Animal: Lorelai Gilmore

Victoria Sluko, Multimedia Graphics/Photo EditorMajor: JournalismFuture Plans: I’d love to write for an outdoor magazine, as an expeditionary journalist and put my passion for the outdoors, writing, and photo to good use. Favorite Place: Iceland.Spirit animal: Gazelle.

Barbara Onufrak, Multimedia Design EditorMajor: Digital MediaFuture Plans: Move to a big city and intern at a Digital Media Marketing company and work with computer software. Favorite Place: CaliforniaSpirit Animal: Pelican

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Table of ContentsI. Jitters

II. Bon Voyage

III. Homeward Bound

• Decisions, Decisions!• Packing To Do List• Top 5 Documents Needed

Before Studying Abroad• Dress For Less Advice

From Our Globetrotters

• Ode to Ireland• How to Stay Safe

While Abroad• Arrive a Stranger,

Leave a Friend• Hungry for More?• Care for a Pint?

• No Longer Legal• Adjustment to America• Post-Abroad Depression• How to Lose Weight After

Abroad• Trotting to your Next

Destination

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II. Bon Voyage

Jitters

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Decisions, Decisions!By: Teressa Capobianco

Here it comes: that ache in the pit of your stomach, the rise of nerves swimming throughout your body, and the fear of the unknown lingering around you. Study abroad season has officially arrived! As nerve-wracking as the entire ordeal may be, you should consider this the most exciting time in your life! Your school (and hopefully your parents) is offering you the opportunity of a lifetime: to study abroad in any country your fabulous little heart desires! But there is one issue…where do you go?

Well my darling world-travelers, this issue has quite a simple fix! There are several important questions to ask yourselves when making the study abroad decision: • What country do you

truly want to reside in? • What language are you

most comfortable with? • Are you planning on

looking at a program with friends or are you

venturing alone? • What is your preferred

climate? • Will you like the food? • How far away is it from

your actual home? • And the big one: can you

afford it?

If you feel that slight rise of panic surging through your body already then PAUSE! Force it down and hear me out! Yes, choosing the right program for you will be tough, but do not fret; there is a way to make this process less of an overwhelming experience. So, let’s start with the basics!

The Program First thing to check off your list are the programs that your select college or university provides as options for students. Many schools throughout the United States offer a variety of study abroad programs in all areas of the world. So how about we do some research? This is where Google becomes your best friend, ladies. College and university

site reviewers name the top colleges with the best study abroad programs in the nation. The U.S. News College Review site names Boston University, Duke University, Dartmouth College, Elon University, New York University, and many more on the list of schools with the best abroad programs out there. If you are already a student of one of these colleges, then you are in luck! If you are not, then the best thing to do is get some more insight through on-campus meetings about various abroad programs that are offered. Be proactive and go to the meeting for the Thailand program being offered (even though your mom already said that’s too far), visit the on-campus study abroad office to find out more about when sessions are offered and how you can get more information on specific programs. After that, the next step is to decide where to go!

The CountryImagine yourself on the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, standing near the cool, breezy edge with

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the crisp air running through your hair. Imagine yourself gazing at the orange sunset over the hills of China while standing on the Great Wall. Imagine the sweet taste of that authentic gelato you are slowly savoring from outside the factory in Rome, Italy. There are hundreds of places in each country that you could visit, but deciding on which country to reside in is a big decision. Information sessions offered by your college or university will be the most helpful in this case. There, you can find out what university you would be studying at depending on your desired country. You can also look online at the most popular schools abroad that have programs that work with colleges in the U.S. Bestcollegereviews.org is an essential starting point for finding out more about the top places to study overseas. Researching information on the potential university you may attend is the best way to settle those nervous jitters and could actually help you decide

overall where you would like to go! However, the best way to learn about a specific country you are interested in going to is to talk to your peers who have already had the experience. Study abroad ambassadors are the best source of knowledge you can find firsthand! These people are your gateway to the truths behind the experience, and those juicy details are the things you want to find out! So be brave, ask around, and experience, so that one day you can tell the story of your own travels to those in your position.

The Cost“So, how much will it cost me?” You’ve heard this one before right? Well if you have not yet experienced it, ladies, it is bound to happen. When heading home for Christmas break baring all of the pamphlets and guides that you could scrounge up in order to convince mom and dad to let you go, this will most likely be the first question they spit out. The price tag for an abroad trip is very large, but the outcome is

an experience that you will share with your friends and family for the rest of your life. Although that statement alone may not do much to convince them, it’s the truth. However, one important factor to highlight, bold, and star in your Lilly Pulitzer planner is exchange rate. Countries like Australia and New Zealand tend to be more expensive than countries like China or Thailand due to the exchange rate. Making sure you are aware of the cost of tuition and the cost of living is essential. So, don’t let dad faint at the sight of the dollar sign. Do your research, get all of the facts, and establish how this trip is fit for you.

Life is short, work is hard, and being a kid doesn’t last forever; so run with this opportunity. Go forth and gallivant through the streets of Barcelona while singing, “Strut like You Mean it” by the Cheetah Girls; paraglide over the Swiss Alps; take a selfie while riding an elephant in Thailand. Kick those nerves to the curb and have an experience of a lifetime!

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Packing To Do List!European converters/adapters Because the European outlets are different from the ones we’re used to in America, it is a MUST to bring converters for your electronic needs. Buy 3 or 4 converters, just to be safe! And remember to check in advance what kind of converter is used in the country you’ll be studying in, as they differ from place to place. Prescriptions If you are on daily prescription medicine, it is important to get enough to last you for the entire semester abroad. In order to do this, your pharmacy needs to contact your doctor, and request enough medicine in bulk. This should be done at least two weeks before leaving the country. Standard Medicine It is not a bad idea to pack some over the counter medicine, in case you get sick abroad. European medicine is very different, and it’s better to stick with what you know, and feel comfortable. Some examples of what to bring are: Advil, Motrin, Dayquil, Benedryl, and Pepto-Bismol.

Vitamins The same goes for vitamins as it does with medicine! Vitamins in Europe are different from the ones you may be used to; therefore, your best bet is to bring a bottle or two of your everyday vitamin in your suitcase, to avoid searching in European pharmacies and reading non-English labels. Euros A lot of airports and exchange offices in Europe over-charge to convert your American money into Euros, or whatever the currency is that you’re using. Therefore, it’s beneficial to go to your bank before leaving, to request a couple hundred Euros. Although you can use your credit card, there are transaction and international fees, therefore the more cash you have beforehand, the better. It is also important to keep track of the Euro rate, and request Euros when the Euro rate is at its cheapest. Carry-On Luggage This is definitely a MUST. A lot of times, people bring duffel bags as a carry on, but while traveling around Europe, the weight of carry

By: Kelly Coleman

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on bags change. Therefore, it is important to get a standard carry on bag with wheels, and make sure the measurements are correct. This also relieves the pain of carrying a heavy bag around a new city! Student ID If you don’t have your student visa with you when traveling (although you should always have it on your person), your student ID will get you discounts in a ton of museums or tourist attraction sites! A cross-shoulder bag While exploring during the day or at night, a cross-body bag is a great essential, because you always know where it is, and can keep it in front of you to ensure nothing get’s stolen. Also, the more zippers, the better! It’s better to stagger your important items in different pockets, to ensure that even if one thing gets stolen, the other essentials will be in your bag. Hopefully this never happens, though! Notify Bank This is a must! Before leaving for abroad, it is crucial to call your bank to tell them you will be

leaving the country, so they don’t block your card when they see it being used in another country. You also need to tell them all of the countries you are planning on traveling to, so they can make sure your card doesn’t freeze or get blocked. Hand sanitizer While going from airport to bus to hotel to metro, you don’t even want to know how many germs you’re touching. Always keep a mini hand sanitizer in your bag, to avoid sickness and to stay clean! Headphones Although this may seem obvious, there is so much that goes into packing that it’s easy to forget something so simple. Whether you’re on a long plane ride or alone in a café, headphones are an easy travel accessory to keep with you at all times. Laundry bag While abroad, you have to do laundry too! It’s better to bring a small, foldable laundry bag from home, so you don’t have to search for one while there. If you’re staying in an apartment with a washer and dryer in your room, then of course you won’t need this!

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Top 5 Documents Needed Before Studying Abroad

Passport Make sure your passport is not expired, and if it is, re-new it and allow a few weeks for it to be updated. Health coverage proof For most universities abroad, you will be required to reach out to your health insurance company and request a form that states you are covered by your health provider for the semester you will be abroad. Sometimes, the letters have to be very specific, so make sure you do this ahead of time! Immunization and Vaccination Records Some universities and countries require your vaccination records, to make sure you are up to date with shots that may be necessary before entering a new country. Driver’s License Instead of bringing your passport to a bar or club, bring your driver’s license to verify your age. This can also be used to conduct transactions requiring two forms of ID, and to drive in your host country. Student Visa This is the most complex and difficult part of the pre-abroad process. However, once this is done, you’re officially ready to go! There is not a set process, but here is the standard process of the

By: Kelly Coleman

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materials necessary to obtain your student VISA. In order to complete the process, you have to go to a nearby U.S. Embassy. • A letter from your abroad institution, showing your admission to the university • Written proof that your parents have money in their bank account to support you • Passport • Passport photos • Application fee payment receipt • A Visa interview that may require fingerprint scanning • Additional information that may be required: transcript, your intent to depart the U.S. • Forms that will be given to you through the embassy

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When packing for abroad, you have to understand that you are going to be taking tours, walking for hours, and photographing everything in sight. The majority of your memories come from sights you see and the photos you take. Most people want to look their best when capturing the moment. When it comes to shopping for clothes, items can end up being pretty pricey, and the last thing you want to do is spend all of your money. Going abroad already costs a fortune, so the first fashion tip you should keep in mind is that Europe is expensive. As tempting as it is, you have to learn to restrain yourself from buying more clothes than you need.

This month’s issue is focused on Cork, Ireland. The clothes there are not that expensive compared to other places abroad, but this doesn’t mean you should go wild. Pace yourself and only purchase clothing items that you know you’ll love and wear for a long time. Go into stores that you have never been in before, places that are completely different from those at home. A lot of places abroad have the same stores we do in the U.S.;

you may see an H&M or Tj Maxx, but try not to spend your money in these stores. Another tip to help you reserve money is to remember that you can mix and match your clothes. For example, when packing, bring a jean jacket that can go easily with multiple outfits or repeat outfits, but use different accessories. If you re-wear the

outfit, add different bracelets or a scarf to make it appear like a whole new outfit. You can also bring big, long sweaters because this type of clothing goes with everything. Always make sure to keep up with weather wherever you are traveling to. You don’t want to pack sweaters and jeans when it’s going to be in the 80s! In Cork, the weather is normally in the low 50s. This may be chilly for some, so you will want to pack long pants

and light coats, which means your suitcase may be tough to pack with all the thick clothing, so be sure to repeat outfits! A final thing to remember is to bring along comfortable shoes. Pack a pair of shoes that you can do the most walking in; you will constantly be on the move when abroad, and all that activity will

take a toll on your feet. It may not seem this way, but you don’t need to bring every pair of shoes you own. Be sure to bring at least one pair that you know you will constantly be walking in. These will quickly become your ride or die shoes and you will get the most use out of them. You also want to make sure you bring items that are going to last. Don't bring a skimpy, light

sweater that is going to rip easily. The material of your clothing should be durable so that way when you’re out walking around it lessens the chance of rips or tears. Make sure whatever you bring to wear is very comfortable, as it will save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Bringing those super tight jeans to walk around in could get annoying!

Dress For LessBy: Barbara Onufrak

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Advice from Our Globetrotters

Is worry beginning to creep up on you? Are you still struggling with the idea of even traveling at all? Have no fear, your personal study abroad advisors are here! Hot off the press! Here’s the 411. Remember: you’ve got to start somewhere! What better way to learn than through those who’ve already made the journey?

Interview with Loyola University Maryland Study Abroad Ambassador: Kasey C.

Studied Abroad in Cork, Ireland: University College Cork

T: What was the hardest part of adapting to a different culture?

K: The brogue was really overwhelming at first and their sayings were very different. Smaller portions in grocery stores and the difference in the food was definitely something to get used to also. Irish plumbing is pretty bad too, so you had to plan accordingly when to shower and how to budget time for it between yourself and your roommates.

T: Were your parents concerned about the cost of sending you to Cork, Ireland?

K: Not really because I worked a lot for myself. So a majority of it was mine, but they did help me out a bit. I was smart about how I spent it. My roommate and I cooked often for dinner and would split the food, which was a lot cheaper and easier to have meals leftover. We booked trips early, which was great. By making groups of 4 to 6 we began booking trips within the first month abroad in order to pay for cheaper flights and being on top of everything was definitely a huge advantage.

T: What advice do you have for students looking to go to Cork?

K: Travel all around Ireland rather than just all of Europe. That was my favorite part so I recommend doing that. Be smart about spending your money. Don’t say no to anything unless it’s dangerous. Get to know everyone in your group; I can honestly say that I was able to have a conversation with everyone in my group because of that so be open to meeting new people.

By: Teressa Capobianco

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Bon Voyage

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I can still remember the moment I peeked out the tiny airplane window getting my first glimpse of where I would be living for the next four and half months — the Emerald Isle. It was everything I had imagined it would look like: a patchwork of green fields with puffy clouds hanging low in the sky. I soon learned that the Irish want outsiders to realize that they live in the 21st century too, there are highways and iPads and skyscrapers and so on. But the elements that make this country a gem begin with what your eyes first see — the shades of green, the mist in the air, and the sun creeping out from the clouds — and then what you discover beyond.

Prior to college, when I

imagined myself studying abroad, I did not picture myself in Cork, Ireland. I assumed I would be in a big city like London, but that wasn’t an option at my university. After attending various info sessions for all my school’s choices around the world, I realized I liked the one in Cork best. Plus, I had always wanted to see

where my ancestors were from and now I had the chance to live there.

I got a lot of questions and

funny looks when I told people where I would be spending my semester abroad, “Cork? Where is that?” or “Why don’t you just go to Dublin?” The city of Cork is in the South-West region of Ireland, and it is the second biggest city of the country. Its citizens strongly believe it deserved to be the capital of Ireland after winning an important battle during the

Irish Civil War, and have earned themselves the nickname “rebels” for their fierce desire to standout from Dublin (just one example is everyone drinks the dark beer Murphy’s that is brewed in Cork, rather than the famous Guiness,

which is brewed in Dublin). And while these might just seem like facts listed about the city, these all influence the personality of Cork and why it

Ode to IrelandBy: Katie Nolan

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is so dear in my heart.

My first impression of Cork was disbelief that it’s the second largest city in Ireland. There aren’t a lot of tall, looming buildings, extremely busy intersections, or the need to take public transportation or cabs to get around. There are some streets where you can literally walk in the middle of the road and not have to worry about getting run over. Then there are the quaint side alleys, which cars can’t drive through, where a lot of my favorite cafés and restaurants are scattered in hues as bright as Ireland’s landscape. Often when I walked around the city

center I felt like I was in the middle of a movie set because everything was picturesque: clean sidewalks, street performers on the corners, sweet shops and bookstores, the list goes on.

The city is largely influenced by University College Cork, the school I attended while abroad. Cork feeds off of the energy of the young students and their upbeat outlooks reverberate throughout the city. This goes for most of the Irish I met throughout the country. I had the opportunity to learn all about Ireland’s deep and sad history, and it is quite amazing how resilient and upbeat its citizens are. They

are some of the friendliest and kindest people I’ve met and encountered. People smile at you on the streets, in stores they ask how you are, where you’re from, and how you’re getting along. When I remember the beauty of Ireland, it’s not just the aesthesis, but also the people.

I was able to explore every nook and every cranny of Cork and call the city my home. When my four and half months ended, I knew I had lived in Ireland, not just visited it.

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How To Stay Safe While Abroad

Studying abroad is supposed to be one of the best semesters during your time in

college. But, to ensure that you have fun, it’s important to remember how to stay safe in the city you are living in and while traveling to other destinations. Globetrotter asked our Campus Ambassadors to share some of their do’s and don’ts of staying safe while abroad!

Do: Know the route

“Always know the public transportation routes and times prior to going out. You don’t

want to be stuck in a sketchy part of town late at night and not know how to get home,

especially if you have been drinking.” Whitney Muscat

Melbourne, Australia

Don’t: Panic, even if things seem bleak “I was leaving Paris with friends and we

were supposed to take a bus to Madrid, but we missed it. We could have easily panicked being stuck in a foreign city with little money

and nowhere to stay, but I remained calm. Luckily, I was able to get in touch with a

friend’s mom who was in Paris as well, and she let us stay at her Airbnb until we could get on the bus the next day. Had I freaked out, I

don’t know if I would have remembered that I knew someone else in Paris at the time.”

Meg Brady

Copenhagen, Denmark

Do: Wear Sensible Shoes “This might sound silly, but it’s important to wear good shoes whether you’re just walking around the city or navigating the cobblestone

streets at night. To get to class we had to walk through the Old Market Square where

there were often broken glass bottles from the night before. A girl I knew stepped on glass and sliced her foot open, and she had to get stitches in the bottom of her foot. Getting

around the rest of the semester was extremely difficult for her and made sightseeing and

exploring more of a challenge.” Caroline Fitchett Leaven, Belgium

Don’t: Wander away from your friends “It’s best to stick with your friends when you

go out or are traveling in cities you do not know. Wi-Fi isn’t always easy to come by, and you don’t want to end up alone at night or by yourself in a foreign city unsure of where to

go. Nothing ruins a fun night out or weekend trip more than spending most of your time

finding your group.” Annie Eno

Glasgow, Scotland

By: Katie Nolan

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“Arrive a Stranger, Leave a Friend”

Ireland is a country rich in culture and charming simplicity. It provides people with a range of interests and the opportunity to indulge in their traveling desires. Every kilometer of the country begs to be explored, whether in the vibrant city of Dublin or the peaceful landscapes of Wicklow County. These locations only represent a small portion of Ireland, not even taking into consideration the western coast and its naturally beautiful cliffs. Whether adventure, shopping, or a pint of Guinness is what you seek, you’re sure to find it in Ireland. Dublin: a city big enough to spend a week in, but small enough to use as a quick two-day blitz trip. Highlights of the city include St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Guinness and Jameson factories, Grafton

Street, Trinity College, and even the River Liffey, sprinkled with unique bridges and lined with dozens of pubs and shops. Once you’ve looked at a map and gotten a feel for the layout of Dublin, it really isn’t difficult to navigate through and is easily walkable. This being said, if you’re ever lost, ask one of the locals for help because they’re some of the friendliest people around (and have fantastic accents). If you happen to be in Dublin on one of its many rainy days, a visit to the Guinness or Jameson factories is a great way to stay dry and taste some of Ireland’s infamous brews. On a nicer day, take a walk through Trinity College’s gorgeous campus and admire its architecture, some of which is close to 300 years

old. If you’re longing to give in to your shopaholic tendencies, walk over to Grafton Street and check out its many stores, some of which are only found in Europe. Another plus to Grafton Street is the constant entertainment provided: talented street musicians, magicians, and some very interesting living statues keep the street alive. If you haven’t already fallen in love with Dublin by the evening, its nightlife may change your mind. Dublin is well known for its multitude of bars and pubs, Temple Bar being the most famous. If you step inside one of these establishments at any given time, you’re bound to hear sounds of joyful, drunken Dubliners and genuine Irish music, and, if you’re lucky,

By: Ashley Dellefave

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you may even see some Irish step-dancing. Pubs are also a great place to go if you’re into sports like rugby and soccer, as there always appears to be a match displayed on TV screens. No matter what it is that you decide to do while in Dublin, the most important thing to remember is to take it all in and enjoy yourself. The people of Dublin just want to eat and drink and have a good time, and can you really blame them? While Dublin provides visitors with a chance to encounter Ireland’s rich culture, places like Wicklow County are proof that Ireland’s namesake of the Emerald Isle is well deserved. Take a scenic drive through the county and you will see what true nature really is. If you’ve chosen to stay in Dublin, but have some free days to spare, consider signing up for a bus tour. Gray Line Tours, a company that provides exciting trips through countries around the world, offers

a special ride through much of Wicklow and the surrounding towns. Hop on a bus with a group of strangers and an Irishman who knows how to simultaneously crack jokes and drive a 6-wheeled monstrosity, and make sure that camera is ready at all times. Gray Line’s Wicklow tour, similar to those of other companies, takes visitors through scenic Glencree Valley and the Sally gap, where the only things seen for miles are lush, green grasses and fauna-covered mountains. Stops are made at Lough Tay, or Guinness Lake, so named for its deep color resembling a pint of Guinness, and the very bridge where Gerard Butler shares his first kiss with Hilary Swank in P.S I Love You. After driving along narrow, winding roads, pausing possibly for a group of sheep to cross the street, the crown jewel of the tour is

reached: Glendalough, or the Valley of the Two Lakes. After strolling through remains of a monastic settlement founded in the 6th century, take a leisurely walk through the woods before reaching the main attraction. Glendalough is known for its Upper and Lower Lakes, more breathtaking than anything you could see in a National Geographic magazine, for there’s no better way to view the beauty of nature than up close and personal. Glendalough, along with many other natural wonders throughout Ireland, provides visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in their environment. A temptation while abroad is to capture every single experience in photos, but sometimes it is nice to remove ourselves from this obsession with technology and learn to truly experience.

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Hungry For More?The Irish country doesn’t just offer potatoes, beer, and beef, but many other types of cuisine as well. It may come as a surprise to many that Ireland’s menu is very diverse. While there are enough mashed potatoes, Guinness, and burgers to go around, there’s also seafood, fresh produce, and pasta. While in Cork, Ireland, you’ll find eclectic and delicious cuisine, and the eateries within the city reflect this perfectly. See for yourself… The Woodford: This is a perfect example of what most restaurants are like in Cork. As you walk into this pub, dim lighting engulfs you and wooden tables paired with cushioned benches meet your gaze. Empty Jameson bottles act as candlestick holders, while an immense beer tap accessorizes the bar. The Woodford’s menu is vast, although several items certainly stand out. For example, the chicken pot pie. This isn’t traditional chicken pot pie – Woodford’s dish features hearty chunks of chicken, mushrooms, and thyme, all in a thick, creamy sauce and topped with mashed potatoes. The pub is also known for its burgers – cooked well done (and still packed with flavor, surprisingly enough) and topped with mixed greens and spicy ketchup. If you’re looking for a classic Irish restaurant, Woodford’s is the place to go. Liberty Grill: While in Cork, you may stumble across a restaurant called Liberty Grill, whose breakfast menu is especially to die for. This restaurant charmingly features shiny metal chairs, fresh flowers on each table and a white brick wall with a funky Liberty Grill sign. There are platters of scones and jelly stacked high on a table in the middle of the room, and a bustling bar and kitchen that barely squeezes inside this tiny restaurant. What to order here? For starters, I’d recommend the Greek yogurt.

Here, this sweet treat could be easily mistaken for an ice cream sundae. Served in a tall glass dish, this delicious yogurt sits on a bed of berries and is topped with crunchy granola. While this could serve as a main dish, why stop here? Liberty Grill’s eggs benedict is absolutely amazing. Poached eggs rest on thick slices of ham and crispy sourdough bread, and are topped with hollandaise sauce and scallions. Serendipity Café: Since we’re on the topic of delicious brunches, let’s explore Serendipity Café. This hole-in-the wall restaurant goes almost unnoticed, hiding in the shadow of the River Lee Hotel. Its food, however, radiates for miles. For example, its quiche is outstanding. Upon ordering this, you’ll receive a large piece of sizzling, cheesy baked egg, cooked with ham, spinach, peas and a buttery, flaky crust. The quiche served at Serendipity never disappoints, and neither do the sandwiches. I suggest choosing the ham and cheese melt, consisting of slices of salty ham, gooey cheese and mayonnaise on toasted sourdough. Jumping from savory to sweet: Serendipity’s French toast is exquisite, and slightly different from that which you might order in the U.S. You can top these slices of toast with berry compote, honey, or syrup. If you find yourself thirsty during your meal, I’d order a glass of homemade lemonade or a pot of tea. Franciscan Well: Surprisingly enough, the pizza in Cork exceeds all expectations. The Franciscan Well is dark yet lively – the inside of this restaurant is small, but the outside is spacious and welcoming. Long wooden tables and benches line the patio, with plants and twinkling lights acting as a ceiling, while a team of expert pizza-makers work to roll dough and prepare toppings. Customers are able to choose toppings for

By: Georgia Lundberg

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themselves, and can pick from spicy chorizo, pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers, and much more. Oftentimes, Franciscan Well will feature a “pizza of the week.” One such pizza is called the Bianco and consists of mozzarella cheese and thinly sliced, crispy potatoes. In terms of drinks, the microbrewery’s beers are as follows: Friar Weisse Wheat Beer, Blarney Blonde, Rebel Red, and Shandon Stout. I’m partial to the Rebel Red, which is darker than pale ale and bitter in taste. Pizza and beer…what’s not to love?

SoHo: This isn’t a traditional Irish restaurant, but it’s phenomenal nonetheless. As you walk down Cork’s busiest strip, you won’t miss this eatery – it’s three stories high and a neon-red “SoHo” sign lights up the restaurant’s front. Each floor is adorned in red booths circled around large tables, offering modern, Manhattan-style vibes. For dinner, SoHo’s specialty is serving hot rocks with a choice of seafood or steak

on top. This way, customers are in charge of cooking meat to their liking. If you’re interested in working for your dinner, then this is quite the concept. Dessert comes next. The restaurant offers a chocolate sponge cake, drizzled in caramel sauce with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. But there’s more – this contemporary restaurant serves unique beverages. SoHo offers “mini buckets,” which are individual drinks served in funky buckets. Why drink from a glass when you can sip from a bucket? Many people don’t imagine Ireland to be overflowing with interesting cuisine, but believe it or not, it is. Cork is especially packed to the brim with various eateries, ones that are worth drooling over. Indulge all you want while in this city because who knows when you’ll find a meal as good as one in Cork.

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By: Georgia Lundberg

The Irish are incredibly thick-skinned, and I mean this in the best possible way. They endure freezing cold showers, sideways rain, and they also drink beer – a lot of beer. This being said, nightlife is an important part of the Irish culture. Cork is just like any other Irish city in the sense that it’s crawling with pubs, and the hot spots found here are definitely worth discussing.

Rearden’s:Rearden’s is a pub in which you’re guaranteed to have a good time. On any given night, this bar is swarming with the most eccentric customers – from college students to 50-year-old men. The dance floor becomes packed and every once in awhile, someone will walk up to the DJ booth and request a song from the early 2000s. A long bar twists around one side of the pub, and bartenders clad in matching black t-shirt’s busily tend to their patrons. Here, cocktails are regularly served in long, thin, clear glasses – even the shots are served in this same fashion and only fill up about a quarter of the glass, a style quite different from the shots that you might order in the U.S. On a busy night, you’ll find yourself weaving in between a tightly packed room in order to reach the dance floor.

Voodoo Room:Upon entering Voodoo, you’ll climb a narrow, dimly lit staircase, which leads to the bar’s central area. Each customer must pay a 10-euro cover fee (5 euro if you present a student ID). And yet, this bar is extremely fun. A dance floor sits a level below the bar area, and plasma TV screens are planted on the walls enclosing Voodoo. Tuesday nights are dubbed “Wall Street” nights and this is when these TVs are put to good use. The prices of drinks are posted on the screens, and every five minutes or so, the fees change. At one point in the night, you can buy a cocktail for 8 euro, while at another time, you can snag a drink for the price of 2 euro. Just like the stock exchange on Wall Street, you never know exactly what you’re going to get. Voodoo offers a surprising twist, in which bar goers are constantly kept on their feet.

Holy Cow:The Holy Cow isn’t your traditional Irish pub. Vibrant lights in purple hues illuminate this small bar, and with loudly thumping house music, you might at first feel like you’re at a rave. Puffs of cigarette smoke billow inside each time the door opens, and a long line of people crowd the bar. Although it’s expensive, ordering a Jameson and ginger cocktail (Jameson Irish whiskey and ginger ale) is the best move to make at the Holy Cow – this delicious, refreshing drink comes in a large cup, so you won’t have to worry about going up to the bar frequently throughout the night. As time progresses and the line of bar goers waiting outside ceases, the inside doors connecting Holy Cow to its neighboring bar are opened, creating an enormous space that people can move freely throughout. When the bar expands, you’ll have an even better chance of meeting new people.

Care For A Pint?

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Oliver Plunkett: Let’s return to our Irish roots and talk about Oliver Plunkett, which offers a relaxed night out. Oak tables and benches line the sides of this pub, while the middle of the room is simply open space, acting as a dance floor. There’s a small stage featuring several stools illuminated by bright lights, where live music occurs 7 nights a week. These musicians range from all-girl groups who sing while playing the acoustic guitar, to traditional Irish musicians clad with bagpipes and native songs, and this music is even more pleasant with a pint in hand. You’ll soon notice that few people indulge in cocktails, opting for beer instead. Guinness is always a great choice (the Guinness served in Ireland is different from that served in the states – it’s smooth and not nearly as bitter). I’d recommend visiting Oliver Plunkett during one of your first nights in Cork. The Woolshed:If you’re looking for an animated sports bar where you can buy pitchers of beer while watching a game, then The Woolshed is the place to go. When visiting this bar during last year’s Super Bowl, I was surprised that the Irish even tuned into an American football game. I approached a young man and asked, “Why are you guys watching the Super Bowl?” He responded in a thick Irish slur, saying, “Well it’s an excuse to drink, isn’t it?” For this night, silver bleachers were set up along one side of the pub, while the game was projected on a blank wall opposite these benches. Waitresses in referee outfits scurried around the bar taking orders, returning with trays stacked high with plates of nachos and overflowing pints. The Woolshed is oftentimes so crowded that you have to sit on the floor, but this is a small inconvenience when it comes to the fun that this bar proves to be on game nights. It might not come as a shock to you that the city of Cork is packed with entertaining bars and other hot nightspots, since pubs are an important part of the Irish culture. While studying abroad in this quaint city, you’ll never be bored. Cork is certainly quiet and comfortable, but this doesn’t affect its nightlife in the slightest. Enjoy!

1. UCC2. Serendipity Cafe3. Franciscan Well4. The Woolshed5. Holy Cow6. SoHo7. Liberty Grill8. Reardens 9. The Woodford10. Voodoo Room11. Oliver Plunkett

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Homeward Bound

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No Longer Legal :(So you went abroad, and you lived the life of a fully legal adult. Alcohol was a normal consumption, whether it was wine at lunch or a quick stop at the bar in between classes. Around the world, 162 countries have a legal drinking age below 21, and many European countries lie in the 16-18 range of legality. Chances are, you’ve had a few legal drinks on your travels. Now that you returned home to the U.S., there’s a certain unreasonable feeling when you consider the age limit. When abroad, drinking wasn’t always excessive, although it had the potential to be. Personally, I’ve met peers in Europe who have been drinking legally for years and the idea of alcohol for them has lost its mystical pull that it has over many U.S. students daily. Sitting at dinner, after months of living abroad, I was frustrated when I saw a familiar wine and remembered that I still had 2 more years before I could drink it. To combat these frustrations, I’ve complied a list of 6 things to do that are so fun, alcohol won’t even cross your mind. However, as you patiently wait the magical birthday to come around, it really doesn’t matter what you do. The common thing that makes all these ideas worthwhile is the people that are doing them. Spa Day: Consider all of the self-pampering you can treat yourself to: nails, hair, massages, and facials. I feel rejuvenated just thinking about it! Zoo or Aquarium: A beautiful day of walking around and appreciating all of the wonderful species of life. Extra points if you can pet the penguins! See a Show: Get dressed up, grab tickets to a local venue, laugh and take plenty of pictures! Root for the Home Team: Get the gang together and check out a local sports game. Even if you aren’t that into sports, who says no to hot dogs and funnel cakes? Explore Your City: Check out the local farmers market, eat somewhere you’ve never been, or just take a walk around a different neighborhood. Road Trip: Grab your favorite girlfriends and hit the road, maybe to a nearby state school or even a great concert.

By: Victoria Sluko

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The security agent in the terminal glanced at me, my passport, and back at me. “Welcome home,” he said. “Gracias,” I responded. I’m positive I accidentally spoke Spanglish for a week after my return home from my time abroad in Spain. I expected the culture shock when I arrived in a different country, but was surprised that I had such a large adjustment upon returning. Coming home after being abroad is filled with a mixture of feelings that range from excitement and anticipation to sorrow and heartache. In some ways, it’s exciting to come home. I remember being excited about seeing my family and friends from home again or eating my favorite foods at my favorite restaurants. But it can also be disappointing when life

abroad is over, because let’s face it, life abroad is awesome. There are no more splendid weekend trips to ancient cities or tropical beaches. Whether you study in a European town or a village in South America, you become adjusted to living a certain way. The hardest thing about coming home for me was missing my friends that I lived abroad with. After months of living together with friends that I traveled with, ate with, partied with, and studied with, it was difficult that they were spread out across the world. Of course, seeing friends I hadn’t seen in a while was nice, but I shared something special with the people abroad that no one else understood. Together, we have inside jokes, hilarious stories, and unforgettable memories. To everyone else listening to these recollections, they just seems like nonsense, but to us, it is much more meaningful.

I found that it was easiest for me to come home when I had things to look forward to. When I arrived back in the country, I immediately packed my bags for a family vacation. Afterwards, I spent some weekends visiting old friends. This being said, sometimes it’s nice to just sit back and relax from the busy traveling lifestyle, lay out by a lake or beach and catch up on some good books. It may take a few days or sometimes weeks to adjust back to life before abroad. But, when I think about it I’ll really never be the same as I was before, because then I hadn’t yet experienced all the things that I have now. After time, normalcy begins to sink in, but once in a while I’ll still think back on my time abroad and miss it deeply.

Adjustment to America By: Victoria Sluko

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Post-Abroad DepressionEveryone talks about reverse culture shock and the process of readjusting to life in the states post abroad, but rarely do they approach the topic of post-abroad depression. Anyone who loved their studies abroad can attest for the pain and longing that crept up on them shortly after arriving home. Though studying abroad isn’t always fun and games, it often includes the most crazy experiences and unusual foreign customs that you find yourself missing most once you return home. How is it possible to focus on applying for internships or studying for midterms when at the same time a year ago, you were hopping on a plane to Ireland, or Spain, or Bali? Below is a list of some of the ways to beat your post-abroad depression, and things you should definitely avoid.

DO stay close to the people you studied abroad with, as they are the closest connection to your time abroad. Whether it’s one person or an entire group, be sure to maintain contact with them; get lunch once a week or meet up occasionally for a fun night out. With everyone having busy schedules, it may be a difficult feat, but finding a time to have a reunion is also a valuable opportunity. There, you have the freedom to reminisce about your time abroad without feeling like you’re boring anyone or redundantly boasting about how fantastic being abroad was and how much better the food/wine/scenery/people/etc. were. Remember: misery loves company.

DON’T look through the photos and videos you took while abroad on a daily basis. I know you want to remember every detail of the places you visited and relive your experiences through the visual memories, but browsing through either your own or your friends’ Facebook albums isn’t going do anything but make you wish you were there. This goes for friends or peers you may know who are currently studying in the same country that you were; nothing hurts more than seeing someone sitting at your favorite corner cafe. I’m not telling you to avoid your computer or phones at all costs, but maybe keep your reminiscing to a couple times a month rather than a couple times a day.

DO get involved on campus. The best way to keep your mind off something is to find an alternative that’s worth occupying your time. Whether it’s a club or organization you were involved with prior to going abroad, or one you never really considered joining before, go for it. Staying busy and focusing your attention on something other than the fun times you had while abroad can help you seek amazing

By: Ashley Dellefave

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opportunities you’re able to have in your home country. Want to combine your love for abroad and your campus into one? If your university offers a club for the promotion of its international programs, try to get involved: what better way to indulge in your love for abroad than by sharing your experiences and passion with other students.

DON’T get stuck thinking that certain, or all aspects of your time abroad are better than your life in the states. When you begin to compare your experiences, you forget about all of the great aspects of your life in the U.S. and at your home university. Sure, you may not be able to hop on a plane for 50 dollars and visit a different country, but you can take a road trip with your friends and explore cities you’ve never even heard of. The nightlife might be different, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun without clubs and cheap beer. You may have to make some compromises, but it shouldn’t be anything that prevents you from being happy where you are.

DO take advantage of resources like Skype and keep in touch with any contacts you made abroad. If being so far away from your host country is too unbearable, make sure to stay connected with any friends you made while there. They’re farther away than the home friends you traveled with, but they can be that little piece of the world that you always have to rely on. A plus for maintaining a strong relationship is that you will always have someone to visit the next time you're off on a new adventure.

Hopefully these tips will help you to stay happy and grounded once you’re home, and remember above all else: if you truly loved your experience abroad, the opportunity for you to go back is always there, if you search hard enough for it.

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How To Lose Weight After AbroadBy: Barbara Onufrak

No matter what anyone says, you will gain weight abroad. It is a given. You are traveling to a new country and the food is fantastic everywhere. This means there is no diet, no counting calories and no cutting back. You will be overeating almost every time you go out. Don't look at this as bad but look at it as enjoyment. Go eat as much as you want and worry about your weight when you’re home. How many times will you get the chance to live in a different country for an extended period of time? So go indulge on the food and be sure to try different dishes. This a time for you to relax and meet new friends. This is a time to take a million selfies and go to places you have never seen before with people you are just meeting. Being abroad really is an amazing experience and living in Cork will be a blast. Not many people get this opportunity so make sure you enjoy every second you have in Cork with your friends. When your trip has ended and you want to get back in shape, here are a few details to focus on. The first is to tell your mind you're not on vacation anymore. There is no more waking up and seeing the stunning Cork scenery. The constant going out and eating whatever you want has sadly ended. You have been away for awhile and your brain and body are used to overeating. You have to look at yourself in the mirror and accept that you have gained some weight, which is okay. Almost everyone who goes abroad ends up gaining some weight. You cannot help that there are so many different meals to try that it’s all too tempting. You have to let yourself know that being away was a blast but now it's time to come back to reality. That reality is regular college with studying for exams and doing homework constantly. The second tip is to slowly start to cutting back on how much you eat. Substitute that grilled cheese for a healthy bar or piece of fruit. Also, be sure not to skip breakfast; you need energy to get you through the day and when you work out later. Try packing a pre-made egg white wrap or some fruit in a plastic container. You can also make a food schedule for yourself; make a note of each food you are going to eat for every meal each day. For example, starting with Monday say that you will have a banana with peanut butter for breakfast. Then at around 11 a.m. you give yourself a snack, a granola bar for example. For lunch at around 1 p.m. you have a salad with a fruit smoothie. At 4 p.m. allow yourself another snack which could be some pretzels with humus. At 7 p.m. for dinner, make a vegetable dish with rice and beans. Mapping out what you are going to eat will help you to stay on track and not cheat. Once a week you could let yourself have a little cookie or brownie for dessert. If you go in on a strict diet right away, it will only make it harder.

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Keep in mind that results are not going to happen within a week. Losing weight takes time. The third tip is exercise. Start this at a slow pace as well. No one works out while they are abroad and be honest if you did; it was only for the first couple of weeks. You are on a long vacation, all you want to do is explore the country and go out, your body is not used to

exercising. Start to go on light jogs around your neighborhood to get your body used to exercise again. Then, once you get your body going again, you will be able to hit the gym three or four times a week. Really focus on doing ab exercises and arm workouts. Your stomach and arms are probably where you gained the most weight so you want to tackle those areas first. Try purchasing a workout tape that specifically focuses on abs and arms. If you would rather not spend the money, you can check Pinterest for some workouts and tons of options will come up that you can choose from. Again, make a schedule of each workout that you are going to do each day. Make sure you switch it up and get different workouts in each time you go to the gym to avoid repetition or boredom. As you start making progress, begin to enhance all of the steps. Start to substitute more foods with healthier options and work out maybe four times a week instead of two. You should also bring a friend who was abroad with you, that way you will not be alone and will have someone to motivate you. If you really want to get intense, take a before an after picture to see all of your improvements. You can take a picture the day you start working out and take another four months later; seeing the before and after will really motivate you. Always stay confident and do not give up. Just remember: it is not going to happen overnight, be patient! Doing all of these will help you lose weight and get back to your old self!38

Trotting to Your Next Destination...

Barcelona!

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Love the idea of soaking up the sun on the beaches of Spain? Or dancing the night away in some of Europe’s most popular nightclubs? Barcelona may be the place for you.

This issue will contain all of the essential information you need to enjoy yourself through all of the Spanish fiestas and siestas.

Feature stories:

FoodBecause Barcelona in close to the shores of Spain, the seafood is bound to be extremely fresh and delicious. Paella is a very well-known Spanish dish that varies depending on the region and people who make it, though it often contains rice, shrimp and mussels, chorizo (sausage), tomatoes, and a variety of spices. If seafood isn’t your thing, a Spanish tortilla may be the way to go. This dish’s most simple form consists of only potatoes and eggs, cooked similarly to an omelet or frittata. Take advantage of the wide variety of food choices Barcelona has to offer—you won’t be disappointed!

A Day in the ParkPick a day when the weather is looking nice and check out Park Güell, one of Barcelona’s most visited locations. Stroll down the winding, sandy walkways lined by trees and admire the mod-ernist architecture of Antoni Gaudí. Most importantly, be sure to take a seat on the main terrace; decorated with colorful mosaics and providing an excellent view of the park and city beyond, this is definitely a spot you won’t want to miss.

Catalán 101Though Spanish is Spain’s most widely spoken language, Barcelona is unique as it is located in Cataluña, where a second language, Catalán, is prevalent. These two languages are very similar at times, but can also be very different, something that could end up confusing even the most ex-perienced Spanish speakers. We’ve come up with a selection of important words and phrases in Catalán that will help you to survive in Barcelona and look like a true Española.