The American Adventure: Part II: The Adjustment

They say time flies when you’re having fun, and I can confirm that this is true. Upon writing this, I am entering week 6 of college, something which I never thought I would say. It is safe to say that it has been the most incredible period of my life to date.

Starting university is always going to be a challenging time for anyone, no matter what age you are. Being extracted from your family, friends, and your comfortable surroundings is not something you ever want to happen. However, being thrown head first into the adult world is something which you are forced to deal with; no matter how tough times get.

Studying in America isn’t the conventional route for a young Irish kid but it’s a decision which has already provided me with great opportunities. During welcome weekend, I saw the true spirit of this incredible place. Whether it swaying to the sweet sound of the Alma Mater or the candlelight service at the Grotto. Notre Dame is my new home for the next chapter in my life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

“The mind will not be cultivated at the expense of the heart.” - Blessed Basil Moreau C.S.C.

The words of Blessed Basil Moreau, founder of Holy Cross, have been echoed consistently ever since I arrived here, and there is good reason for it. No matter whether you are Catholic or Protestant; Jewish or Jedi; Baptist or Buddhist, the Catholic ethos here at Notre Dame allows artistic and intellectual creativity to flourish through the holistic approach to the person.

The sense of community here is contagious. The mission of Notre Dame is to find transformational future leaders, who will become a force for good in the world. Despite having only spent a relatively short period of time on campus, it is clear to see that the current generation of students are well on track to achieving that mission.

Photo courtesy of The Gentleman's Monthly: Representing St. Edward's Hall at the recent Notre Dame Trail.

The scenery on this campus cannot be fully appreciated until you walk around in person and admire the beauty. Waking up every morning and peering out to see the Golden Dome shining in all its glory, it is a special feeling. When I take a step back and think about the endless number of people who have passed through this college, it is amazing to think I am now part of the family. My favorite place is undoubtedly the Grotto at midnight, when candlelight pierces through the darkness to provide a sense of hope and optimism for the future of this world.

Cultural adjustment is always going to a challenge. Yes, we may speak the same language but we’re not the same. This article by Benny Lewis is one of the most honest pieces I’ve ever read, and to be completely honest, many of these have happened to me:

“Oh my God! You’re Irish?! That’s so cool!!” This is exactly how you will be greeted if you have an accent (Obviously you’re not all Irish, but trust me, accents will make you stand out instantly). Naturally, you’ll have to repeat yourself a few times to certain people but once you have found your friend group, they will no longer need a translator.

Pro tip: If you’re not from London, like me, it’s always a good idea to be friends with someone who is, as they have the clearest accent which Americans can understand without a problem. Sometimes you’ll require subtitles but don’t worry: I’ve been there, done that, and worn the t-shirt. People soon adapt but it may take a little bit of time.

Another aspect of college life in America is sports- College sport is simply incredible. American football is a religion here. The unveiling of the Campus Crossroads stadium after years of planning generated an emotional opening win against Temple.

However, the highlight of my American football experience so far is undoubtedly the game against Georgia. With Notre Dame ranked at #24, and Georgia at #15, the stadium was sold out- not to mention the tens of thousands of fans on campus for the game despite not having tickets. The atmosphere was simply breathtaking, magnified by the fact it was a night game.

From the Notre Dame band, whose perfect formations and playing are a show in themselves, to a crystal-clear rendition of the ‘Star Spangled Banner’, goosebumps pervaded my body. Nobody does patriotism quite like Americans, and when you see four US Air Force jets pass over head, followed by chants of ‘USA’, it is mesmerizing.

What comes to mind when you hear the term ‘floating’? Probably something related to swimming, I imagine? Well, it has somewhat of a related meaning within the life of St. Edward’s hall. I think this video by Luke Golinchowski illustrates it best. It’s the classic 'Steds' game-day tradition:

It’s not until you don’t have something that you miss it. Well, it’s safe to say that when the temperature reaches 90°F and you have no air conditioning, that you truly appreciate having cold air constantly available. I mean, why else would I end up sleeping in the chapel dorm on a certain occasion? Thankfully, it is one of the chilled places. Although, I suppose having to go through so many clothes means that my laundry is always done which will keep my mum happy- my room is super-clean, I promise.

There’s one thing I haven’t spoken about yet, and I can’t quite work out what it is… Oh yeah, academics- you know, the thing you go to university for? Of course, academics have been a large part of my experience to date. However, the reason I leave it to last is because my time here has not been so pre-occupied with my studies that I can’t enjoy myself. In fact, I am relishing every class.

Don’t get me wrong, it can get hard at times. On those days when you have 2 papers due and a test, it can be pretty hard to manage your time so that you actually treat yourself with a 10 minute break. The liberal arts system stretches you to your intellectual limits, and pushes you to test out areas which have never been explored before. I can reveal that my Beginning Logic class is certainly fulfilling this characteristic. It’s a challenge, yet one I am embracing.

What I have found is that I am never bored in any of my classes. At times in high school, I would be wondering why certain topics would be getting covered. Yet, with these college level classes, the discussions which take place reveal the reason why Notre Dame is so highly regarded. The students which I am surrounded by are some of the greatest scholars in the world, and if anything, it will only help me to evolve intellectually.

That’s the thing I love about this place. It is filled with so many incredible people yet they do not feel the need to show off and shove this fact down your throat at every opportunity. Instead, they choose to let their actions convey their qualities. Notre Dame is a place where one is challenged; not to get a 4.0 GPA, but to become the best version of themselves, a well-rounded individual. It is not a dog-eat-dog mentality. Rather, it is an environment in which talents blossom and grow, and where humanity prevails.

I know this article is very Notre Dame-biased but it’s only what I know and love. I have no doubt there are so many other amazing schools across the globe but I would not, and could not, change my current pathway.

I’ve been living away from home for over two months at this point, and it is incredible to think that this is my life for the next 3.5 years. I have so many memories which simply cannot be articulated in words. Yet, I will strive to document my journey as best I can for everyone.

Until next time….

Conal x

P.s. I haven’t lost my accent yet but just picked up a few words here and there. Happy Fall!!