Meet Trinity Currin (she/they)

Program and Location:

Spring, Ireland: Global food systems and sustainable agriculture; Ireland

Major/Minor:

Animal Science and Biological Sciences Major

Why did you choose to study abroad?

I chose to study abroad to better understand the world around me. There has not been many opportunities for me prior to university, to learn about other cultures and see how people live. I also had always wanted to go to Ireland and was fascinated by the landscape and people.

What did you learn about yourself?

During my time abroad, I spent a lot of time by myself actually. I felt so small most of the time, but when I went out and tried to embrace my surroundings, I fell in love with the country. I talked to many people, and tried to be open to as many experiences as possible. Through this I felt like I could foster connections in a meaningful way. After getting back from my program, I wanted to be more involved in my community, than I had been previously.

What was one of your favorite parts of your program?

My favorite day of my entire program was visiting Ballycoose Farm. Campbell Tweed and his entire family were so warm and inviting. I learned a lot on out there sheep production. I probably annoyed everyone by asking so many questions, but it was fantastic to visit with people who are in the industry I want to work in. And I loved seeing all the sheep.

What advice do you have to future study abroad students?

My best advice would be to not have a plan. Having plans on what you are going to do before you even get in a country can seem like a good idea, but you may limit yourself on opportunities. Try to go with the flow as much as possible and see what happens, you may find yourself in places that are better than what you originally planned.

Were you surprised by anything during your time abroad?

I was genuinely surprised at how much I loved the experience! I was nervous going into my program, as I had never been out of the country before. I still look back on everything fondly and I think it gave me a better perspective on many issues in the livestock and other agriculture industries at home. My experience made me realize how much I enjoy learning about the history of agriculture and farming, and not just currently practices.

In what ways did your identity have an impact on your experience abroad?

For me my identity as part of the LGBTQ+ community did not necessarily impact my experience that greatly. I am a cis gendered white woman, who to most does not appear outwardly queer in most of the time. I feel that this allows me much more shelter from discrimination than those who cannot so easily mask their identity. This affords me many privileges when traveling and navigating the world that not everyone has. I think that my race and presentation play a large part in that, and it needs to be acknowledged.
The few people that I did talk to about my identity were very accepting and kind. I enjoyed discussing the differences in the queer communities in the southern US and the struggles that come with that, and the lives of LGBTQ+ communities in Ireland.

Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?

Be cognizant of who you are in company with. I know that in some circles being a lesbian, or bisexual, or gender queer, etc. is very normalized and accepted, but that’s not always the case. From my experience I did not have any issues as far as safety, and felt very inclined to talk to people and explore queer spaces. So it just depends on where you are going, my advise would be to look into cultural history of the country or city you are visiting, and look at legislation that protects the LGBTQ+ community in the country you are visiting.

Where did you find support to navigate any challenges you faced abroad?

I found a lot of support in my programs coordinators, who felt like surrogate parents while abroad. I also talked to friends and family back home. Ireland is 6 hours ahead of the eastern US timezone, so some night I would be up at 1 am to talk to them. That was a huge help for me, but I know that’s not always possible while overseas.

Would you do it again?

Absolutely!!! I would go back tomorrow if I could.