Eudy, Devereux

Devereux Eudy

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I chose to accept the Carolina Global Launch program, which placed me in Limerick, Ireland. Before applying to Carolina, I accepted the terms if I were to be accepted into Carolina Global Launch. I put Ireland as my number one. I wanted to study abroad to expand my horizons, live independently, and build confidence in myself.

What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that I am a spontaneous adventurer! While I love to eat, I love to explore the cities and the countryside even more. I'll take a quick snack and the adventure begins. Climbing endless stairs, hills, mountains, and more did not deter me. Ireland has so much to offer and I wanted to bask in its beauty and culture. Even with my spontaneity, I also learned that I can plan and navigate effectively. When we would take trips to other countries, I was well-organised with hotels, transportation, etc. Lastly, I learned that I am willing to step back from friends, school, and travelling to allow time for journaling, poetry, or thinking deeply.

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories was on one our study abroad trips with API. We went to an ancient stone fort, located somewhere outside Cobh. We decided to lay down in the grass on a large hill and watch the clouds pass by. We all sat in silence for a while, appreciating the scenery and the wonderful opportunity we had. I look back at that fond memory often, as it was true bliss. It was truly magical to experience serenity and silence, appreciating nature, and being surrounded by my friends. 

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
First of all, uncertainties are completely normal. You will be scared. A lot. You will be scared on the flight over there. You will be scared when you land in the airport, surrounded by a culture that is perhaps unfamiliar to yours. You will be scared when you meet a bunch of people you do not know. And when you move in, and the intense excitement and/or anxiety fades, you will inevitably miss home and your family. These difficulties are normal and expected. However, also be aware that these uncertainties will come and go. It is okay to be scared. But it's even more important that you can push past these fears, and trust me, you will. At the end, you will know FOR CERTAIN that you are capable of so much more than you previously thought. Missing your bus or losing your keys may cause panic in those moments. However, you will persevere, and truly be satisfied with yourself and your life as a whole. 

How do you identify?
LGBTQ+

Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
I had a wonderful time being LGBTQ+ abroad. In big cities in Ireland, and in other cities like Amsterdam, Paris, etc they are very accepting. In Limerick specifically, they have a pride parade and a lot of LGBTQ+ clubs and support. Cork is a very queer town as well. I had no negative experiences with it. 

Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
I know plenty of people who do not experience discrimination in Ireland, especially since it is a very safe country, but some do. There is still judgement from people, especially with the heavily Catholic influence. But I would say be aware of potential danger from people, and avoid places you've seen/heard are homophobic or transphobic. 

Memories