When I picture Ireland I picture castle remains and rolling green hills. I know not all Ireland is like that, but from pictures that is what they portray.I view Ireland’s culture as being traditional and people oriented. I have always heard how friendly the people are and it is one of the things I am looking forward to: is meeting the Irish! I am a mixture of emotions. I am excited that I have the opportunity to explore a new culture, but I am also apprehensive. This trip is completely outside my comfort zone. I come from a small town and my traveling experience is very small. I am now going to a completely foreign place where I essentially know no one. My excitement far outweighs my nervousness. Part of this experience is to separate me from the familiar. By pushing myself outside my comfort zone I am allowing myself to grow as a person, which is one of my goals I want to achieve by the end of this trip.