Rachel Kernoghan - Dakota Wesleyan University, USA

Study USA 2024/25

"An unforgettable experience filled with memories made alongside amazing people from all around the world. I would do it all over again if I could."

Unforgettable memories

One of the most memorable parts of my StudyUSA journey has been watching my own growth - from the moment I arrived in August 2024 to now, as I prepare to leave with a heart full of gratitude and a mind full of unforgettable memories. I've met some of the most amazing people in my life, shared unforgettable moments at American football and soccer games, seeing the Northern lights and even travelled to states like Nebraska and Iowa for sporting events.

Homecoming week brought a new kind of energy and excitement, and exploring the beauty of South Dakota was something I never imagined I'd get to do. Another highlight was when my dad came over for spring break - we went on a road trip through South Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana, taking in sights like the Black Hills, Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone National Park, and the peaceful, open landscapes of Wyoming. Every moment added to a chapter of my life I'll always cherish.

Embracing a new culture

I noticed more differences than similarities within the U.S. and Northern Ireland culture.

Similarities such as college being a place where strong friendships are built and people from different backgrounds come together to create a sense of community, alongside this the love for sports is big in both cultures, whether it is football in NI or American football, there is always excitement and team spirit around game days.

However, differences such as campus culture with the sports stadiums, dining halls, fraternities, sororities, and dorms feel surreal, like the American movies! Another difference can be class structure, the U.S. students have a lot of flexibility with class choices and electives to switch majors. In NI, the courses are more fixed and specialised to the degree. Social events in the U.S. have a culture around themed events, homecoming week, campus ministry retreats and more which are not apart of university in NI.

Lastly cultural norms are expressed very differently as Americans can be more open and expressive while people in NI tend to be more reserved and modest.

Facing new challenges

Studying in American definitely came with its challenges. Cultural adjustment like social norms, humour, and food were some of the main challenges that I faced.

American friendliness can feel overwhelming at first, especially during casual conversations. It sometimes left me feeling out of place or like my social battery had completely drained, which made me worry about being misunderstood or exhausted trying to match the group energy. Adjusting to the humour also took time, but as the first semester went on, my friends began to understand me, which made a great difference. Lastly, the food. I really missed home comforts like a proper Sunday dinner, an Ulster Fry or Galaxy Chocolate. Thankfully, I brought over plenty of tea bags, because I genuinely don't think I could've survived without a good cup of tea!

Despite those small challenges, all of which I overcome with a positive mindset, studying in America gave me a broader worldview, the chance to connect with people from all over the world, which I have formed lasting connections with, and a chance to represent Northern Ireland in a positive light.

New Friends

When students arrived on campus, I was lucky to make friends straight away during the New Student Orientation weekend. I became part of a group of 10-15 girls involved in all sorts of sports and activities on campus, which really helped me find my feet in America.

A big comfort for me was finding out that there were other international students on campus playing soccer - from all over the UK, including five from Ireland. Having that shared background created an instant connection, and it was reassuring to have people around who understood me. It was also comforting to see how genuinely interested American students were in getting to know me, as one of two international girls, along with another from England. The warm American welcome from my friends and others around me made it much easier to adapt to the culture, say yes to new experiences such as trying new foods, visiting tourist spots, or exploring local treasures, and truly enjoy the environment and community I became a part of. I loved learning cool things about them while also sharing stories about myself and Northern Ireland.

Seeing new places

Over spring break, I had the amazing opportunity to drive up to Montana and experience Yellowstone National Park. I stayed in Billings and got a feel for the local way of life, while also exploring nearby towns like Wyola, Hardin, and Laurel. The scenery was stunning, and it was great to take it all in under sunny skies. I also crossed into Wyoming and visited towns such as Sundance, Moorcroft, Gillette, Buffalo, and Sheridan - each offering a unique look at rural American life and friendly interactions with locals.

I also travelled across the Missouri River into Nebraska to support our college sports teams. Along the way, I got to try Raising Cane's for the first time - it was delicious! I passed through towns like Norfolk, Stanton, Crete, and Lincoln, before heading through Sioux City, Iowa.

Lastly, exploring South Dakota. I visited the Black Hills region, including Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, the Badlands, Spearfish Canyon, and the historic town of Deadwood. Every stop was incredible, and I'd absolutely love to return someday to see even more and visit my friends across different states.

Advice to others

If you are thinking about studying abroad- do it.

It is one of the most rewarding decisions I have made and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Stepping out of my comfort zone was intimidating at first, but that is where the growth happens. You get to experience new cultures, make great connections, but also learn much more about yourself along the way. Embrace every moment, even the hard ones because that is a part of your journey too. Say yes more than no, and don't be afraid to be yourself - make the most of every opportunity. It's not always easy, but it's always worth it!