A Day in the Life of a Spanish Exchange Student in Ireland

Starting My Irish Adventure

When I first arrived in Ireland as a Spanish exchange student, I knew life would be different - but I didn’t expect how much I would come to love it. Now in Sixth Year at school in Kilkenny, every day feels like a new adventure.

Early Mornings and New Routines

My mornings begin much earlier than I was used to back in Spain. I usually wake up around 7:00 am since I live quite far from school. Sometimes I take the bus, and other times my host family drives me in. Adjusting to early mornings was tough at first, but it’s now just part of my daily rhythm.

School Subjects and Singing in Class

Classes at my Irish school are quite different from what I knew. Some subjects, like Maths and English, feel familiar. But others, like Choir, were a complete surprise! In Spain, we’d never imagine having singing lessons during the school day. Though it felt strange initially, I’ve grown to love it. It’s a cheerful break from the more intense subjects and a lovely way to bond with classmates.

Supportive Teachers and a Warm School Environment

Something that truly stands out is how friendly and approachable the teachers are. They want you to do well academically, but they also care about you as a person. This makes the atmosphere much more relaxed and encouraging.

Lunchtime Connections and New Friendships

One of my favourite times of the day is our long lunch break, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm. In Spain, breaks are much shorter, so this extra time feels like a luxury. I spend it socialising with my Irish friends - chatting, laughing, and enjoying our time together. These casual moments have helped me build friendships I know will last long after I leave Ireland.

Exploring Kilkenny After Class

After school, my routine varies. Most weekdays, I head home for homework and study - Sixth Year can be intense! But Fridays are different. I often meet friends in town for a coffee, a bit of shopping, or just a relaxed walk. Kilkenny is such a charming place, perfect for unwinding after a busy week.

Adapting to Irish Dinners and Family Time

Dinner was another cultural shift for me. In Spain, we usually eat late in the evening, but my host family dines around 6:00 or 7:00 pm. It felt early at first, but now I appreciate it. After dinner, we often sit and talk about our day. It’s a lovely way to connect and practise my English in a relaxed setting.

Balancing Study and Rest

Evenings usually involve more study - unless I’m really tired and head straight to bed. Balancing schoolwork, social life, and rest can be tough, but it's also deeply rewarding.

A Life-Changing Experience as a Spanish Exchange Student in Ireland

Living and studying in Ireland has been a life-changing experience. Every day at school in Ireland teaches me something new - about academics, about culture, and about myself. I know I’ll miss the early dinners, the unique classes, and especially the incredible people who’ve made this journey unforgettable.

Our 6th Year Class Photo for the School Yearbook