My father is English, but moved to Ireland with his family as a child. I was born and raised in Ireland, and recently moved to Edinburgh for study. I always imagined that there would be little to no difference with our proximity, similar cultural history, and my personal connection.

However, I have been struck by how foreign I feel here, even with all we have in common. It can be quite isolating, and I’m shocked by how little people here know or care about Ireland, especially as I’m reasonably knowledgable about the UK.

-David, Edinburgh