Moving to a new country is a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, curiosity, and, in my case, an undeniable chill. When I landed in Ireland to begin my studies at Maynooth University, I knew I’d left the warmth of Nigeria behind, but I didn’t realize just how much the cold would define my first days.

I’ll admit, the Irish weather caught me off guard. No matter how many people warned me, “Ireland is colder than you think,” I thought my trusty coat and thermal socks would be enough. Oh, how wrong I was. On my very first morning here, I ventured out to explore the town, bundled up in layers that I thought would rival a snowman’s. Yet, within minutes, the cold Irish wind seemed to find every gap in my scarf, gloves, and jacket, as if to say, “Welcome to Ireland. We hope you brought more than one coat!”

The first days were a mix of awe and adaptation. Maynooth is a stunning town, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque scenery. But it didn’t take long for the cold to make me nostalgic for home – for the warm air, the vibrant street life, and the unmistakable comfort of the Nigerian sun. Walking to class in the early mornings, my fingers frozen despite being tucked into gloves, I couldn’t help but miss those days of stepping out into 30-degree heat.

But then, something unexpected happened – the people here made me forget about the weather.

It started with small moments. Someone noticed I looked a little lost and stopped everything to guide me to my location, chatting the whole way about their favourite spots on campus. Later that week, another stranger overheard me asking about where to get a good meal and enthusiastically recommended a local pub.

Even during those freezing early mornings, it wasn’t unusual for a stranger to pass by with a cheerful “How are you? ”The Irish have a way of making you feel like you’ve known them for years, even if you’ve just met. It’s in their humour, their kindness, and the way they take an interest in your story.

One of my favourite memories so far happened in my first couple of weeks. I had just finished a lecture and was walking back to my accommodation when it started to rain – a classic Irish drizzle that quickly turned into a full downpour. I had no umbrella and was silently regretting all my life choices when a woman noticed me. She stopped, smiled, and said, “Ah, you must be new here. Never trust the sunshine in Ireland!” Then she handed me her spare umbrella and walked off as if it were no big deal.

Moments like that made me realize that Ireland’s warmth isn’t found in its weather – it’s found in its people. Whether it’s your professor asking how you’re settling in, your classmates helping you navigate assignments, or a stranger giving you an umbrella during a rainy walk, the kindness here has a way of melting even the frostiest days.

Of course, I’m still adjusting. The layering game is real, and I’ve officially added “hot tea” to my daily routine (because tea solves everything here, apparently). But as I walk through the stunning Maynooth campus and reflect on my first days, I realize that what initially felt like a challenge – the cold, the rain, the unfamiliarity – has become an adventure.

To any international students preparing to come to Ireland, here’s my advice: pack your warmest clothes, but also pack an open heart. The chill might catch you off guard at first, but the people you meet will more than make up for it.