My time at the Burren College of Art was by far the most influential time of my life and has heavily led me to the path I am on. During my time studying abroad, I had the opportunity to have my own studio and develop my process and work while being fully immersed in the environment, culture, and life of Western Ireland. I have always been infatuated with medical and scientific illustration as the intricate details and desire for knowledge continuously fill my being. I spent my time learning about the language, culture, and environment of Ireland, inspiring heavier research and taking closer looks at the world around me. By learning the Irish language during my time abroad, I connected to a new side of Ireland. This defining experience allowed me to find confidence in my work as an artist and solidified my curiosity and desire to focus on the intertwined relationship between science and art. The combination of being influenced by the natural world and having my own studio experience allowed a stronger development of professional practice and success in IP. Furthermore, not only did BCA influence my work as an artist, but my practice changed as a result of learning to appreciate a new way of life. I’ve changed daily habits and artistic practices in order to preserve the environment around me and take careful consideration about material impacts. Studying abroad was easily the most positive, influential, and defining moment of my artistic journey, encouraging me to now study abroad again for graduate school (MSc Medical Art) in Scotland, in order to continue learning new perspectives and bettering myself as an artist and a person. BCA will forever hold a special place in my heart and I look forward to returning to Ireland on my next journey.