UCD Quinn School of Business Blog

It’s only the beginning

April 24th, 2009

As all other bloggers have mentioned, time really does fly. In two weeks I’ll be sitting back at home and hoping that we can have a decent summer. But for now, it is still Erasmus. What’s more, it’s exam time. Exams started on the 6th of April and will end on the 27th for me. Lots more time to prepare but also lots of lazy days when you are looking to go out but either Erasmus friends or myself have exams. Unfortunately that leads to little excitement. 

Some have finished their exams and will be leaving this week with the first of many “bye-bye” parties (inventive name, I know) taking place on Wednesday. I have been forewarned by fellow Erasmus students that were here at Christmas that these are not the easiest to take.

For one exam we did have to learn the quote from Theodore Zeldin “A shared experience is more than a bond, it is a joint discovery of unexpected possibilities.” Some of the studying has paid off… And the quote also explains the bond that I can feel between all here. It is an experience that will only happen once and it is something we have all experienced together and we will forever be friends because of it.

The evolution of technology and social networking has also lessened the impact of farewells. I believe 10 years ago, even 5, occasions like the bye-bye parties would be very upsetting times realising that you won’t hear or see someone again. Nowadays, I will say goodbye to many good friends but not forever. All Erasmus students have been handed the invite to Ireland and will have many places to stay and many tour guides to show them around the country and the same invite has been extended to us which leaves much travelling to be done. 

Facebook will be utilised on return home to ensure that contacts are kept fresh and friendships can last. I’ll be home in two weeks but that is definitely not the end.

Entry Filed under: ERASMUS students