Before I came to Ireland, I had countless ideas of what my life abroad would be like, and somehow the reality was far better than I ever imagined. Here, I’ve compiled a list of things I expected to find while abroad, and the reality of them.
Expectation: It will feel like freshman year all over again.
Reality: It is. UCD put all the exchange students in a WhatsApp group, and the group chat felt very freshman-year-esque. You also need to find your footing all over again, and you will do the dreaded questionnaire of “What’s your name? Major? Where are you from?” But it’s even cooler, because there are more international students and you aren’t as naive as you were as an 18-year-old freshman.
Expectation: Classes in UCD will be so different from classes at GW.
Reality: They’re kind of the same. UCD has a lot of smaller classes than GW does; I don’t think a single one of my classes was in a lecture hall. Most modules at UCD have fewer components, meaning assignments have a higher weight. Other than that, the two are very similar! We also have a lot of international students, like at UCD. The professors at UCD are also very accommodating, and participation is a big part of all my modules. I would also recommend looking at where your classes are before registering! GW’s campus is relatively small; the farthest I’ve ever had to walk was from Philips to G Street, but be prepared to run between classes because of how vast UCD’s campus is.
Expectation: I will get bored with the Irish food scene quickly.
Reality: I think I will cry when I have to leave Ireland, solely because I will miss spice bags so much. There are so many great restaurants and things to try here in Ireland. Here is a quick list of things you have to try: Spice Bag (from anywhere, but Xian is most famous), fish and chips (anywhere in Dun Laoghaire), sausage roll (Bread41), and Irish Stew (Brazen Head).
Expectation: You will get homesick, and you'll be excited to go home.
Reality: While I do miss my friends at GW and I definitely miss a sausage, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel from GW Deli, I cannot understate how in love I am with Ireland. I’ve made so many great friendships here, and being abroad has given me a new perspective on life. I’ve learned to be more confident in my decisions. Whether it be where to grab a latte from or what city is next on my list to visit!
Sophia Reyna
Fall 2025
GW Exchange - University College Dublin
Elliott School of International Affairs
International Affairs Major