My name is Gabrielle Bianchi. I am a junior at the College of Charleston, and I am going to Ireland for spring break. I chose this program because as an education major, I really wanted to learn about different teaching methods abroad and experience a new culture. There are many goals that I have set for my trip. A few include embracing and learning about a culture that I am not very familiar with. I am also really fascinated about learning different methods of teaching in a foreign education system. As a teacher it is very important to research and continue to learn so you can provide the best experiences and education for your students. Studying in Ireland will allow me to deepen and expand my knowledge of teaching. I did a lot of research about the places I’ll be visiting with my peers, such as Dublin, Cork, and the Cliffs of Moher, as well as researched traditions, customs, and holidays that will be happening while I am oversees. A very interesting topic I researched was St. Patrick’s Day. I will be in Ireland during Saint Patrick’s Day and I learned that this Irish holiday is celebrated larger in America than Ireland. From what I learned; Ireland celebrates the religion and story behind St. Patrick and his missionary work, while for American’s it is both religion and the celebration of Irish American’s and their success in a foreign land. I am excited to experience St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland and see the differences through a new lens.