Conundrum of Spring Break

It almost seems perverse to contemplate studying whilst I am in Ireland over my spring break. Yet, I have brought at least one text book, a play, and a mystery novel with me and its presence intrudes upon my stay. The fact is, school is going to return with a fierce vengeance once we return to Oxford. I don’t want to study – it just seems so contrary to my being here. But I know that if I don’t do at least the minimum work, I will be unable to keep up with all the assignments and tests that are going to occur. So here I am, in Ireland, trying to find an excuse to study – somehow the words “hostel” and “school books” do not seem to belong in one sentence.

I have started each of the texts named above and finished one, but I haven’t dug my heels in with the kind of intent I need to in order to really absorb the work. I really would rather do absolutely nothing but sight see, spend lots of money that I don’t have, and party until all hours but the responsible side of me says that while that’s all and fine, I’ll pay dearly if I procrastinate. Oh how I envy the care-free! What makes one able to go to many countries, party regularly and still be able to show up to class and do reasonably well? Maybe its age; I’ve “been there and done that” so all the “busy-ness” doesn’t appeal to me as it once did. I like having a pint alone and maybe a couple of pints when I’m out with friends, but that’s my nature. It’s not a curse to be shy or introverted, but it’s also not an excuse for me to hide behind.

So, I’ll stay here at Ashfield Hostel and take in the daily tours, and when I return, I’ll crack open the books. If there’s time afterwards, I’ll compromise with myself and take in a pub and a pint. Still, it is awkward being amongst my books because I see scores of students here “out there” and not studying. I’m almost embarrassed by my drive to study and do well, but I said “almost.” When all is said and done, I’ve bent my own rules numerous times, and have come through relatively unscathed. I know my limits and understand that I’ve placed a premium on being a student above being in a foreign country or studying abroad. I am here for an academic program, and sometimes the lines between school and play can get very fuzzy in a foreign land. That is why I constantly pause and take in everything I can between the tests and papers. I am truly privileged to be here in Europe as a student, and as a traveler.