A ‘Wexmester’ to Remember: Wexford through the eyes of Georgia Southern University students

We interview two Georgia Southern University students about their memorable stay in Wexford and what it meant to them…

In March of this year, American college students Olivia Lott and Reagan Tribble boarded a flight to Ireland, and a bus to Wexford. Members of Georgia Southern University (GSU), the pair were excited to embark on the college’s Wexford programme, wherein students have an opportunity to spend a semester (or a ‘Wexmester’ as GSU calls it) in Wexford Town.

The Wexford programme offers GSU students with a fantastic opportunity to study at their European campus in the heart of Ireland’s Sunny South-East.

Georgia Southern first opened the learning facility in Wexford town’s historic County Hall on Spawell Road in 2019; a landmark event marking the first time a US public university opened an outreach facility in Ireland.

The decision to choose Wexford as their European headquarters was based in part on the historic connections between The Model County and Savannah, the oldest city in Georgia.

Despite over 6000 kilometres between them, Wexford and Savannah enjoy a close relationship. GSU describes Wexford town as ‘Savannah’s Irish Sister’ and last year a newly renovated bar opened on the streets of Savannah named the ‘Wexford’. This connection goes back centuries to the Great Hunger and before, when thousands emmigrated from Wexford and made new lives for themselves in Savannah.

When they first found out about the exchange, Georgia Southern students Olivia and Reagan were eager to avail of the opportunity to spend a ‘Wexmester’ in Ireland’s Sunny South East. Olivia (who goes by ‘Liv’), a nineteen year old exercise science and kinesiology student, felt like it was an opportunity she couldn’t possibly pass up.

“I just thought it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I cannot turn down something as amazing as Ireland. My nanny was from Northern Ireland so I grew up around the culture and it was something I was super interested in.”

Thousands of miles from home, the pair arrived in Ireland with a thirst for adventure, but quickly found a home away from home. Reagan, an eighteen year old biochemistry student from Warner Robins, Georgia, was charmed from the start.

“We arrived late and were all exhausted, ready to unpack and go to bed. However, our professors took us on a short walk to help us get familiar with the area. That 20-minute stroll changed everything. Even though I didn’t know my way around, Wexford immediately felt like home. The streets were quiet, safe, and welcoming. Everyone we passed was friendly, offering smiles and greetings. Maybe it was because I’m American, but the kindness of the people really stood out.”

Liv expressed similar sentiments, noting that her first impression of Wexford was a place that was ‘very homey and community-driven’. You could say it was love at first sight.

Over the next two months, the pair navigated life in Wexford with unbridled enthusiasm. When not in class or studying, Liv and Reagan dove head-first into Wexford culture. They absorbed local history and attended their first hurling matches. For these Georgia Southern undergrads, this trip was an opportunity to learn about Ireland, as well as themselves.

“I’ve learned a lot during my time in Ireland. I’ve learned why 1916 and 1798 are so significant to Irish culture. I’ve learned about the Irish family farm, the monuments, and the famine. But I’ve also learned how to purchase a bus ticket, how to walk to the store by myself, and how to navigate daily life without needing someone to guide me. That may not seem like a big deal to most people, but for me, it was huge. Ireland taught me how to be independent. It showed me that I’m capable of so much more than I ever gave myself credit for.” ~Reagan

Now back home in Georgia, the pair plan to return to Wexford the first chance they get. When asked what they like most about the Model County, Liv and Reagan gave the same answer: the Wexford people. Reading their responses, one can only hope that every visitor to Wexford feels as welcome as these Georgians have.

“The people in Wexford are unlike any other. It genuinely felt like a home away from home. We travelled all over Ireland. We got to see towns, cities and counties from one side of the country all the way to the other and it was absolutely wild to see the community and hospitality the Wexford people were bringing to the table.” ~Liv

What I love most about Wexford is the people. Whether it’s morning or late at night, there’s always someone smiling, waving, or wishing you a lovely day. That warmth and genuine friendliness make this place incredibly special.” ~Reagan